MANILA -- Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman approved on Monday, 08 August 2022, the release of a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) amounting to two billion pesos to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to assist those in difficult circumstances, including those in crisis situations.

“Ang pondo ng taumbayan, dapat pong mapakinabangan rin ng taumbayan lalo na sa oras ng peligro. The release of this fund is a big help to our kababayans who are caught in difficult situation,” Sec. Amenah Pangandaman said.

“Maganda ang timing ng karagdagang pondong ito. Gusto nating tulungan ang DSWD para makapagbigay ng tulong at proteksyon sa mga pamilyang nangangailangan,” the Budget Secretary added.

The DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) forms part of the Protective Services for Individuals and Families in Difficult Circumstances (PSIFDC). AICS is a provision of integrated services, which include financial assistance for transportation, medical, burial, food and other support services, which are given to individuals and families in crisis situation.

As of June 30, 2022, the AICS program served over 1.5 million clients exceeding its annual target of around 1.4 million. Around 642,348 remaining clients are projected for 2022.

“Patunay ito na binibigyan prayoridad ng pamahalaan ang pagtulong sa mga vulnerable at disadvantaged sectors. Hindi lip service and sinabi ng Pangulo na walang Pilipino ang maiiwan,” Secretary Pangandaman explained. (DBM)