Senator Erwin Tulfo alleged on Wednesday that some members of the House of Representatives are intentionally delaying the passage of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) Act.
Tulfo claimed the delay is caused by a controversial provision that forbids politicians from taking personal credit for distributing government aid.
Speaking during a special Senate session, Tulfo revealed that the measure remains unratified because the lower house has reportedly refused to sign the final enrolled version of the bill.
“Tila hindi sila natutuwa doon po sa kasama sa probisyon na iyon ng AICS, ang anti-epal section,” Tulfo told his colleagues.
The senator explained that the disputed “anti-epal” clause requires financial assistance to be distributed solely by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
This rule effectively prevents elected officials from overseeing distribution events. Tulfo emphasized that this restriction is vital to ensure public funds are spent properly and are not weaponized for political campaigns.
“Sana mapag-isipan ninyo sa mga darating na araw na hindi ninyo pera na pamimigay na yan. Pera (yun) ng taong bayan,” he urged.
The proposed AICS Act seeks to institutionalize the government’s cash assistance program, which provides urgent financial relief to citizens dealing with medical, educational, funeral, and other emergency expenses.