DSWD establishes grievance mechanism for SAP fund distribution

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has established a grievance redress mechanism to address public concerns regarding the distribution of emergency subsidy funds under the Social Amelioration Program (SAP).

DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao stated that eligible individuals not yet included in the subsidy program can appeal through their respective social welfare and development offices for validation and potential inclusion.

More than P47 billion, over half of the P80 billion allocated emergency subsidy funds, has been distributed to local government units (LGUs) and subsequently to beneficiaries.

The DSWD is also coordinating with the DOTr-LTFRB to provide emergency subsidies to 40,000 families of transport network vehicle service (TNVS) and public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, with over P323 million allocated for this group.

A memorandum of agreement was signed with DOTr-LTFRB and Land Bank of the Philippines to implement the SAP for PUV drivers affected by the enhanced community quarantine, making various types of drivers eligible for the P5,000 to P8,000 subsidy.

The government has released P16.3 billion to 3.7 million Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries, clarifying that all 4Ps beneficiaries are still included in the SAP.

The DSWD asserted its full control and supervision over the emergency subsidy distribution, assuring thorough monitoring to ensure aid reaches the rightful beneficiaries.

The government prioritizes poor families and those at risk of losing income during the quarantine period to receive social amelioration programs.

The DSWD urged families to stay at home as assistance is being delivered to help them meet their daily needs during the public health emergency.