DBM approves addt'l fund for individuals in crisis
To continue granting assistance to individuals and families in
dire need, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) approved the release
of additional funds amounting to P3 billion to cover the budget deficiency for
the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman approved the release of the
Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) and its corresponding Notice of Cash
Allocation (NCA) on 16 November 2023.
“In adherence with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s
directive, we will continue to strengthen social protection measures for our
kababayans, especially the marginalized and vulnerable sectors. Alam at
naiintindihan po namin na malaking tulong po ang programang ito sa mga
kababayan nating nangangailangan," Secretary Pangandaman said.
AICS is one of the key services of the Department of Social
Welfare and Development (DSWD) that provides medical assistance, burial,
transportation, education, food, or financial assistance for other support
services or needs of a person or family.
The release of additional funding is anchored on the special
provision in the 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA) on the use of
Unprogrammed Appropriations (UA). The special provision states that a
substantial amount shall be used to support infrastructure projects and social
programs, including financial assistance to indigent individuals or families.
Special Provision No. 1 of the UA provides that the amounts thereof can only be
availed when there are new or excess revenue collections. (DBM/PIA-Caraga)
