DBM OKs release of additional P2B to aid families in ‘difficult circumstances’

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the release of P2 billion in additional funds to assist Filipino families “in difficult circumstances, including those in crisis situations.”

In a statement on Tuesday, the agency said the P2 billion-worth Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) was approved by Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Monday.

“Ang pondo ng taumbayan, dapat pong mapakinabangan rin ng taumbayan lalo na sa oras ng peligro (Public funds should be given to the Filipino people, especially in times of crisis). The release of this fund is a big help to our kababayans who are caught in difficult situation[s],” Pangandaman said.

The additional fund will be allotted for the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), which is part of the Protective Services for Individuals and Families in Difficult Circumstances, according to the DBM.

The AICS is aimed towards providing material and financial support for the recovery of individuals and families in unprecedented crisis situations.

“Maganda ang timing ng karagdagang pondong ito. Gusto nating tulungan ang DSWD para makapagbigay ng tulong at proteksyon sa mga pamilyang nangangailangan,” Pangandaman further explained.

(The timing is right for the release of this fund because we want to assist DSWD in helping and protecting families in need.)

Last August 1, the DBM also green-lighted the release of the P4.13 billion fund to assist Filipino families most affected by surging commodity prices through the DSWD’s Targeted Cash Transfer Program.

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