The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has initiated the “Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program” (AKAP) to support minimum wage earners against the negative impacts of inflation.
In recent months, inflation rates have been on the rise globally due to several factors, including supply chain disruptions, increased demand post-pandemic, and geopolitical tensions.
The Philippines has not been immune to these trends, experiencing higher prices for essential goods and services.
Minimum wage earners, already operating on tight budgets, are among the hardest hit by inflation.
As prices for basic necessities like food, housing, and transportation increase, their limited income stretches even thinner.
This situation can lead to difficult choices, such as cutting back on essential items or foregoing necessary expenses like medical care.
This program aims to alleviate the financial strain on low-income individuals whose purchasing power has been diminished by rising prices.
Here’s an in-depth look at the program, its goals, eligibility criteria, and the mechanisms for distributing aid.
Introduction to DSWD AKAP
On May 20, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian announced the launch of the AKAP program.
This program is designed to assist Filipinos who are minimum wage earners, poor, near-poor, and those working in the informal economy.
The primary objective is to protect these individuals from the immediate effects of inflation on their livelihoods.
Funding for AKAP
The General Appropriations Act of 2024, through Special Provision No. 3 of the DSWD Budget, has allocated P26.7 billion to fund AKAP.
This substantial amount is intended to provide financial assistance to those classified as low-income, particularly minimum wage earners who are severely affected by the current economic situation.
Who is Eligible?
According to the DSWD Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 4, series of 2024, AKAP targets individuals who may not typically receive regular social assistance.
To qualify, a person must belong to the low-income category, meaning their income does not exceed the statutory minimum wage.
This targeted approach ensures that those who need it most can access support.
Exclusions
Beneficiaries already receiving regular assistance from other DSWD programs, such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and indigent senior citizens receiving a P1,000 monthly social pension, are not eligible for AKAP.
Additionally, those receiving aid through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program will be subject to the AKAP’s aid availability limitations and frequency rules.
Payment Schemes
DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao explained that the AKAP program offers financial assistance through two primary modalities.
Direct Implementation
The first modality involves direct implementation by the DSWD through its Crisis Intervention Unit/Sections (CIU/S) at Central and Field Offices, as well as the Social Welfare and Development Satellite Offices (SWAD Office) nationwide.
This method ensures that aid reaches beneficiaries directly from the department.
Partnership with Local Government Units (LGUs)
The second modality leverages partnerships with local government units (LGUs).
These partnerships enable LGUs at the provincial, municipal, city, or barangay level to assist in implementing the AKAP program.
This collaborative approach aims to extend the program’s reach and effectiveness.
Rice Subsidy
Given that the rising price of rice is a significant factor in inflation, the AKAP program includes provisions for affordable rice distribution through the two modalities mentioned.
The goal is to help minimum wage earners recover their eroded income via rice subsidies.
Memorandum of Agreement
To facilitate the partnership with LGUs, a memorandum of agreement (MOA) will be executed between the concerned LGU and the DSWD.
This MOA will outline the conditions stipulated under MC No. 4, ensuring accountability and proper fund management.
Fund Management
LGUs are responsible for the proper disbursement of funds. The funds are non-transferable to other LGUs and must be liquidated in accordance with COA Circular 94-013.
LGUs with unliquidated cash advances from the department will not be eligible for additional fund transfers.
Types of Assistance
MC No. 4 provides for outright cash assistance ranging from P1,000 to P10,000, based on the assessment of DSWD social workers.
In cases where assistance exceeds P10,000, it will be provided via a Guarantee Letter approved by the department secretary.
Application Process
Minimum wage earners eligible for the AKAP program can apply by presenting any of the following documents issued within the last three months:
- Contract of employment duly signed by both parties.
- Certificate of employment with compensation details or a pay slip with the full name and signature of the employer.
- Income tax return (ITR).
- Any other document that verifies the client’s income does not exceed the statutory minimum wage.
Application Submission
These documents can be submitted to the nearest DSWD office or through designated LGU offices participating in the program.
The department aims to ensure a straightforward application process to facilitate quick access to financial aid.
Recent Updates
DSWD Conducts Payout for AICS Program in Camarines Norte
The Department of Social Welfare and Development recently organized a payout for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program in Camarines Norte. 468 domestic and informal workers were given Php 3,000 each as financial aid.
This move aims to support individuals in the low-income category affected by inflation.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has recently introduced the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) to assist minimum wage earners in coping with the challenges of inflation.
This aims to protect the purchasing power of citizens and address the financial difficulties faced by various groups, including fish vendors, tricycle drivers, and minimum wage earners.
Conclusion
The AKAP program represents a significant effort by the department to shield minimum wage earners from the adverse effects of inflation.
By providing targeted financial assistance and leveraging partnerships with LGUs, the program aims to support the most vulnerable segments of the population.
Through these measures, the department hopes to mitigate the impact of rising prices on low-income earners, ensuring they can maintain their purchasing power and secure their livelihoods.
This comprehensive approach underscores the government’s commitment to social welfare and economic stability during challenging times.
By addressing the immediate needs of minimum wage workers, the AKAP program serves as a crucial lifeline for many Filipinos facing financial hardships due to inflation.