Senate panel deletes AKAP, adds new programs in 2025 budget

The Senate Finance Committee has recommended deleting the controversial Ayuda sa Kapos Ang Kita Program (AKAP) from the proposed 2025 General Appropriations Bill.

Instead of AKAP, the committee report includes a new Sustainable Livelihood Program to support microenterprises and employment facilitation, with specific conditions for beneficiaries.

Another provision introduces the Farmers and Fisherfolk Assistance Program, allocating P3.3 billion for monthly assistance of P2,500 for marginalized farmers and fisherfolks.

The panel also recommended increasing the DSWD's Quick Response Fund from P1.250 billion to P1.75 billion and adding a supplementary feeding program for undernourished children ages 2-5.

These changes are part of over P164 billion worth of realignments made by the Senate panel, which now requires approval by the full Senate before being sent to the bicameral conference committee.

The deletion of AKAP funding from DSWD's budget was based on Annex B of the Committee Report on House Bill No. 10800 and has raised concerns over its alleged use in luring Filipinos into participating in a 'fake' people's initiative for Charter change.