Iloilo city: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is investigating claims that officials from Barangay Quintin Salas in Jaro, Iloilo City allegedly appropriated portions of the cash assistance distributed under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao stated that the department condemns any actions depriving beneficiaries of their full assistance. Dumlao emphasized that aid should be received in full by those in need and pledged to conduct an immediate investigation to verify the reports and hold those responsible accountable.

Beneficiaries have alleged that some barangay officials and watchmen deducted PHP8,000 from the PHP10,000 aid, leaving them with only PHP2,000 each. The incident reportedly occurred during a cash payout activity for typhoon-affected families in Iloilo City on Tuesday.

Residents of Barangay Lanit in Jaro have also reported similar complaints, stating that barangay personnel collected portions of the AICS financial aid distributed by DSWD. Beneficiaries expressed concerns over the lack of transparency regarding the collected funds’ destination.

The DSWD’s Field Office 6 in Western Visayas has urged the public to be vigilant against any attempts to solicit or take part of the AICS cash aid. The department reiterated that only qualified individuals in crisis situations are entitled to this assistance, and any reduction of the amount provided is illegal.

AICS beneficiaries experiencing similar incidents are encouraged to report to the nearest DSWD office or staff for referral and investigation.