Akbayan Party-list Representative Chel Diokno clarified that the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development is not limited to poor families but is also open to the middle class.
“Akala ng marami para lang sa mga mahihirap ang tulong ng gobyerno. Pero alam niyo ba kahit ang mga nasa middle class ay puwedeng humingi ng cash assistance pag may biglaang krisis?” Diokno said.
He explained that individuals who experience sudden crises that deplete their savings may apply for cash aid at their local DSWD office. Applicants must present required documents and undergo assessment by social workers, who will determine the amount of assistance to be granted.
The AICS program has a ₱63.9 billion budget under the 2026 national budget, significantly higher than the ₱44.75 billion allocation in 2025. The increase came after the controversial Ayuda Para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), which had a ₱26.159 billion fund, was scrapped following allegations of political misuse before last year’s elections.
To prevent similar issues, lawmakers ensured that AICS funds were expanded while removing politicians from direct involvement in its implementation.
Diokno emphasized that the program is designed to provide immediate relief to anyone facing unexpected financial hardship, regardless of social class.