DSWD files raps vs 14 Iloilo barangay officials over alleged P10,000 cash aid misuse

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has filed administrative and graft complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman against 14 barangay officials in Iloilo City.

These officials allegedly pocketed portions of the P10,000 Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) cash aid intended for beneficiaries.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian stated that beneficiaries were coerced into returning P8,000 to P9,000 of their aid to the barangay officials.

Gatchalian added that the officials threatened to remove beneficiaries from the list if they did not comply, potentially affecting future aid.

The reported incidents of coercion occurred on November 7, 11, and 12 in 16 barangays across Iloilo City.