THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the release of P5 billion to top up a Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) crisis fund.
In a statement on Monday, the DBM said it released the Special Allotment Release Order and its corresponding Notice of Cash Allocation amounting to P5 billion for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.
The AICS program offers support, including medical, burial, transportation, education, and food assistance, as well as financial aid for other urgent needs of individuals and families facing crises.
“We cannot deny the severe impact of the climate crisis here in the Philippines. Typhoons Nika, Ofel, Pepito, and many more are on their way,” DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said.
“Through this, we are sustaining support for vulnerable and marginalized communities. We are bridging the resource gap required for extensive disaster recovery and sustained support throughout the nation,” Ms. Pangandaman said.
The DBM said the additional funds are authorized by the special provisions in the 2024 General Appropriations Act concerning the use of unprogrammed appropriations.
These provisions allow the use of funds for essential infrastructure and social programs, including financial aid for indigent citizens, subject to the availability of new or excess revenue, it said. — Aubrey Rose A. Inosante