DSWD warns LGUs of SAP subsidy delay if payouts aren't completed by April

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) warned local government units (LGUs) that the second tranche of emergency subsidies under the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) may be delayed if payouts are not completed by the end of April.

DSWD Undersecretary Rene Glen Paje stated that LGUs failing to liquidate the first tranche of SAP funds will not receive the additional funds for the second tranche.

LGUs are mandated to submit liquidation and financial reporting documents to the DSWD within 15 days of completing the distribution, including reports of checks issued or disbursements made.

The DSWD is exploring alternative payment methods to accelerate subsidy distribution and asks for public understanding and patience.

As of the article's publication, over 5.7 million beneficiaries had received P27.9 billion in emergency subsidies, representing 31.66% of the target 18 million households.

Under the Bayanihan to Heal As One Act, 18 million low-income households are eligible for P5,000 to P8,000 per month for two months.

Beneficiaries include low-income, non-4Ps households, 4Ps families, and Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) drivers, who received P11.5 billion, P16.3 billion, and P323 million respectively.

The DSWD has downloaded over P77 billion in SAP funds to 1,450 LGUs and has also distributed Family Food Packs nationwide as augmentation support.