House Approves DSWD Assistance to Individuals Bill
The House of Representatives has overwhelmingly approved a measure institutionalizing the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations program. House Bill No. 11395, passed on its third and final reading, aims to strengthen the DSWD Assistance to Individuals program to better support Filipinos facing difficult circumstances.
Despite criticisms claiming the program is used as a political tool, lawmakers emphasized that the Assistance to Individuals program remains a vital government mechanism for delivering aid to those in need. Last year alone, the program provided P40.9 billion in assistance to 6.5 million Filipinos.
Key Features of the Institutionalization Bill
The bill seeks to make the Assistance to Individuals program financially and administratively sustainable. Qualified beneficiaries will receive comprehensive support, including financial aid, medical assistance, transportation, food, and other material help. Additional services such as referral, psychosocial support, and legal consultation will also be available, depending on social workers’ assessments.
To ensure smooth operations, the bill introduces an Integrated Program Delivery System. This platform allows government agencies and local government units to coordinate, identify available assistance, and prevent misuse of resources. Furthermore, the legislation mandates minimum staffing levels for Crisis Intervention Units and authorizes the DSWD to establish the necessary plantilla positions in coordination with budget and civil service bodies.
Payment and Oversight Provisions
HB No. 11395 requires public and private service providers under the program to accept DSWD-issued guarantee letters, coupons, checks, or vouchers as full or partial payment for beneficiaries’ obligations. This measure improves accessibility and streamlines aid delivery.
In addition, the bill establishes a Congressional Oversight Committee consisting of five senators and five representatives appointed by their respective leaders. This committee, co-chaired by social welfare committees from both chambers, will monitor program implementation and address challenges.
A sunset clause mandates the committee to conduct a systematic evaluation within two years to determine the law’s effectiveness and future.
For more news and updates on DSWD Assistance to Individuals, visit Filipinokami.com.