Singson’s Chavit 500 aiding poor Pinoys

Senatorial aspirant Luis “Manong Chavit” Singson has unveiled one of his initiatives, “Chavit 500,” a universal basic income program aimed at providing monthly financial assistance of P500 to low-income Filipinos.

Speaking at a private gathering with NGO presidents in Quezon City on Sunday, Singson highlighted how the program could be a game-changer for poverty alleviation by enabling direct financial support through the VBank digital bank.

“When I win, my priority will be helping the people. I will implement universal basic income like in other countries and call it Chavit 500. This will be a way to ensure Filipinos receive tangible support to improve their quality of life,” Manong Chavit declared in Filipino, drawing loud applause from the audience.

He explained that the Chavit 500 initiative would leverage modern technology to ensure transparency and efficiency. Beneficiaries would receive their monthly assistance directly via VBank, an accessible online banking platform designed for unbanked Filipinos.

According to Singson, the program would avoid the usual pitfalls of corruption by eliminating middlemen in the disbursement process.

“Registration is simple. Just align your face for recognition, and when it turns green, you’re good to go,” he explained, emphasizing how technology would streamline the process and ensure every Filipino has access to essential banking services.

Manong Chavit was accompanied by his son, Christian Luis Singson, during the meeting, which was attended by prominent figures such as Elizier C. Bongabong, president of PNP-Accredited NGOs; Sultan Col. Jerito Adigue, founder of NSCAAP; and Elmer Bernardo, founder of CACG and Ka-Tropa. All NGOs present are SEC-registered and officially recognized under the PNP Ka-Taguyod program.

Elmer Bernardo, who opened the event, expressed admiration for Singson’s unwavering dedication to public service. “May isang salita, ‘yan si Manong Chavit,” Bernardo said, highlighting Singson’s reliability.

Elizier Bongabong followed with a heartfelt introduction, emphasizing the positive impact of Singson’s consistent support for community-driven initiatives.

During his speech, Manong Chavit also unveiled a broader vision for economic and social development. He outlined plans to establish economic zones across the country to attract investors, generate jobs and promote inclusive growth.

These zones, he said, would create a ripple effect, uplifting entire communities and driving sustained economic progress.

Singson also shared his ambitious plan to modernize public transportation, specifically jeepneys, by transitioning to electric vehicles while preserving their iconic design.

“This is not just about modernization; it’s about reducing pollution and building a cleaner, healthier future for our children,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to funding the initiative personally.

Listed No. 58 on the Senate ballot, Singson also highlighted the importance of building camaraderie and unity among various organizations, drawing inspiration from his experiences with the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

“The Eagles organization is one of the happiest groups I’ve joined,” he said. “It’s a testament to how camaraderie and shared values can bring people together to create real change.”