Razo: No ‘cuts, commissions’ in DSWD assistance

Iloilo City- Amid reports of alleged cuts and commissions being imposed in assistance released by DSWD, the agency is warning that it will not hesitate to file appropriate charges and bring the wrongdoers to the full forces of the law.

“We do not tolerate any act of getting cuts in the assistance that we release. Definitely, getting commissions from the aid that we are releasing is a big NO-NO,” said Regional Director Arwin O. Razo of DSWD Field Office VI.

The stern warning was issued by Director Razo after reports have reached his office, alleging that there are people who are asking for commissions or cuts from recipients of DSWD programs.

Programs being implemented by the agency that entail payout include Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, although this is deemed insulated from commissions and cuts because the grants are deposited directly in the cash cards of beneficiaries.

Other programs which entail payout include Sustainable Livelihood Program, wherein there is releasing of livelihood grant; Social Pension Program, wherein there is releasing of pension for elderly; Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation and Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), wherein there is releasing of medical, burial, food assistance to clients; and Cash for work, wherein there is provision of cash in exchange of work rendered.

“To our partner beneficiaries, whenever we process and release assistance, that is intended for you. You are not bound to give commission to anyone or allow cuts to the assistance provided by DSWD,” said Director Razo.

The DSWD remains dedicated to ensuring that aid is delivered directly to its rightful recipients, steadfast in its commitment to maintaining fairness and transparency throughout the process./dswd6