DBM approves release of P3 billion additional fund to sustain DSWD’s AICS Program

MANILA- 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.

To date, the available excess revenue under the UA which was earmarked for the said program under the DSWD’s Protective Services for Individuals and Families in Difficult Circumstances is at P3 billion./PR