Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian reminded beneficiaries of various government aid programs that their assistance should not be deducted by anyone.
During his visit to Romblon to lead the distribution of the Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families (PAFFF) to 3,000 farmers and fishermen, Gatchalian emphasized that no one is allowed to forcibly take a portion of the beneficiaries’ aid.
“Ang punto ko, kahit sino man ang lumapit whether its elected official, home owner association and toda [presidents] at sabihin na ‘kukunin ko iyung porsyentong yan dahil ako rason kung bakit natanggap mo yan’, hinding-hindi puwede yan [My point is, regardless of who approaches you—whether it’s an elected official, a homeowner association leader, or a TODA president—saying ‘I need a percentage of that because I’m the reason you received it,’ that is absolutely not allowed],” Gatchalian stated.
Gatchalian asserted that all aid provided by the DSWD is solely for the beneficiaries of the program.
“Pag-narecieve mo ng buo yan, para sa inyo yan ng buong-buo. Pag pumasok na yan sa bulsa niyo, kontrolado niyo na yan at hindi puwedeng may ibang taong dudukot mula sa inyong mga bulsa [Once you receive that aid, it’s entirely yours. Once it’s in your pocket, it’s under your control and no one else has the right to take any portion from it],” Gatchalian explained.
Gatchalian recounted instances where this unauthorized practice occurred, leading to legal actions against those involved.
“Merong mga mangilan-ngilan na pag-uwi ng beneficiary, yung barangay official ay pumunta sa bahay niya at pilit na kinukuha ‘yung porsyento para daw ibigay pa sa ibang tao. ang nangyari doon kinasuhan namin yung barangay official [There have been a few cases where a barangay official went to a beneficiary’s house and forcibly took a percentage, claiming it was to be given to others. We have filed charges against those barangay officials],” Gatchalian shared.
Recipients of PAFFF in Romblon receive PHP 10,000 in cash assistance.
