The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said its emergency cash assistance program can extend to middle-class Filipinos and minimum wage earners, signaling a shift in how the government is addressing the broader impact of rising fuel prices.
While public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers remain the priority recipients of the government’s cash relief assistance (CRA), the agency clarified that its broader Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program is open to all Filipinos affected by economic shocks—including those who do not typically qualify for social aid.
“Ang cash assistance na pinapamigay ng DSWD ay isang social protection intervention. Being part of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation, lahat po ng individual whether poor or middle income ay pwede pong mag access ng program na ito,” DSWD Undersecretary Adonis Sulit said during a Senate hearing on April 13.
The clarification comes as fuel price increases linked to tensions in the Middle East continue to affect transportation and commodity costs. For many middle-class households, this has translated into higher daily expenses, particularly for commuting, food, and utilities, alongside fixed or limited income growth.
Sulit said the CRA is being implemented as an emergency measure for sectors directly affected by fuel price increases, particularly transport workers. The program is separate from the broader AICS framework, which allows individuals from various income groups to seek assistance based on need.
“The cash relief assistance na ipinatutupad ng DSWD, ito po ‘yung emergency scheme namin para i-address ‘yun ngang ayon sa gobyerno ay mostly affected noong nagsimula ang gulo sa Middle East,” Sulit said.
The DSWD said the effects of the fuel crisis extend beyond transport workers, affecting salaried employees, service workers, and other minimum wage earners. Under AICS, these groups may apply for assistance depending on their circumstances.
To address the expanding scope of need, the agency is exploring both “vertical” and “horizontal” expansion strategies. Vertical expansion refers to increasing the amount of assistance provided to existing beneficiaries, while horizontal expansion involves increasing the number of beneficiaries covered by social protection programs.
Sulit said proposals presented to lawmakers include a possible ₱6,000 top-up per household and ₱1,500 for individual beneficiaries, subject to funding availability.
The DSWD is targeting the completion of the first tranche of the cash relief assistance for PUV drivers by the end of April. The agency said preparations are also underway for a second tranche, which is expected to be distributed through digital payment systems in coordination with financial service providers and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
The agency said AICS remains available to individuals who may seek assistance during crisis situations, subject to assessment and existing program guidelines.
Stay updated—follow Philippines Today on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe on YouTube for more stories.