DSWD Warns Against Gambling Misuse of Aid
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian has directed all program implementers to warn beneficiaries against using their government financial aid for gambling. The warning comes amid efforts to ensure that public funds are used responsibly and for their intended purposes.
Secretary Gatchalian emphasized that all program implementers must clearly communicate to beneficiaries the prohibition on using assistance for any form of gambling. “These funds are for public purposes and cannot be used for any other purpose, especially in all forms and modes of gambling,” he stated in an official memorandum, local officials reported.
Strengthening Monitoring and Grievance Mechanisms
The directive also mandates program implementers to reinforce post-distribution monitoring and activate grievance mechanisms to promptly address any reports of misuse. Community members noted that this step aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the disbursement and utilization of government aid.
Gatchalian warned beneficiaries who violate the directive face removal from the program and possible disqualification from future government assistance. This policy underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that aid supports those in genuine need.
Responsible Use of Government Assistance
In his statement, the DSWD chief urged all recipients to use the financial aid responsibly and for its intended purposes. This call for responsibility aligns with the broader government stance against gambling activities that could undermine social welfare programs.
Officials reported that this memorandum follows the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) directive to all BSP-supervised institutions to disconnect electronic wallets from gambling platforms. This measure further supports the administration’s crackdown on gambling, reinforcing the message to beneficiaries regarding the proper use of aid.
Community Impact and Government Commitment
Local leaders have expressed support for the directive, recognizing its importance in protecting vulnerable communities from the harms of gambling. They stressed that government assistance should empower beneficiaries and not enable risky behavior.
As this policy takes effect, continued vigilance and cooperation between program implementers and beneficiaries will be crucial in safeguarding public funds.
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