Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian announced that the department will enforce the guidelines from the defunded Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) to prohibit politicians from attending off-site financial aid distributions for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) and other programs.

According to Philippine News Agency, Secretary Gatchalian referred to Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2025-01, which forbids politicians from participating in cash aid distributions. This circular was jointly issued by the DSWD, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the National Economic and Development Authority, now known as the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev).

Gatchalian emphasized during a press briefing by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) that the circular explicitly mandates the absence of politicians during payouts. He stated the department will incorporate this provision into the memorandum circular for AICS.

The Joint Memorandum Circular also bans the distribution of political leaflets and the display of posters or banners associating the program with political figures. Gatchalian noted that such restrictions have been part of the DSWD's longstanding guidelines across various programs like AICS, the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), and the Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT).

Social workers play a crucial role in upholding the integrity of these programs, acting as a safeguard against political misuse. Gatchalian affirmed that these professionals are committed to preventing the exploitation of government programs for political gain.

He reiterated that no referral is required to access DSWD programs, assuring that the agency will assist anyone in need or crisis. While referrals from genuine helpers are acknowledged, social workers ultimately determine eligibility and aid amounts based on the client's actual needs.