Senators criticize DSWD over P83B unused funds

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has yet to spend over P83 billion of its allocations under the 2019 and 2020 general appropriations acts, citing challenges brought by the pandemic.

Senators criticized DSWD for not distributing these funds amid the ongoing pandemic and recent typhoons, with Senator Franklin Drilon calling it 'almost criminal'.

DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao cited mobility restrictions, procurement issues, and health threats to personnel as reasons for the unspent funds.