The House of Representatives has approved on second reading a measure aimed at institutionalizing the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to better aid Filipinos in distress.
House Bill No. 6636, or the proposed AICS law, was passed via viva voce during Wednesday’s plenary session. The program provides beneficiaries with financial, medical, transportation, food, and material support, along with referral services, psychosocial interventions, and legal consultations based on DSWD social workers’ assessments.
The bill establishes an integrated program delivery system that government agencies and local government units can use to identify available forms of aid, enhance assistance, and prevent abuse of the AICS program.
It also creates a congressional oversight committee of five senators appointed by the Senate president and five House members appointed by the Speaker to systematically evaluate the program and implementing agencies.
The measure has been identified as a priority by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).