Social and economic challenges in recent years, exacerbated by the global pandemic and various natural disasters, have prompted the government to introduce financial programs such as AKAP (Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program) and AICS (Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations), two kinds of “ayuda” (financial assistance) to support citizens in need.

The intentions might be noble; however, like other financial assistance packages, these are vulnerable to corruption, primarily when implemented by politicians. Reports have emerged of politicians misusing these funds for personal benefit.

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong has repeatedly criticized congressmen for treating the AKAP and AICS funds as their “unlimited funds.” These politicians refer people to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which manages these funds, for assistance as an early form of vote-buying for next year’s elections.

The AKAP program was launched to help displaced workers affected by the pandemic by providing financial assistance and livelihood support. It is the pet project of House Speaker Martin Romualdez, a cousin of President Bongbong Marcos Jr. It became controversial after receiving a budget of P26.7 billion this year while other government agencies faced cuts.

Similarly, AICS aims to provide assistance to individuals in crises, offering aid that can be crucial for survival. It aims to provide immediate relief to households during times of distress.

While the two initiatives are crucial lifelines for many Filipinos, certain politicians’ manipulation and misappropriation of these funds destroy the hopes of vulnerable communities.

According to the DSWD, in 2024, nearly five million Filipinos considered “near poor” received financial assistance under AKAP. Critics, however, alleged that the beneficiary list included local officials in several provinces.

Last month, Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio claimed that some politicians have been taking advantage of AKAP for vote-buying.

Magalong said the abuse stems from the lack of transparency and accountability in distributing these funds. In various cases, local leaders have been accused of diverting resources meant for constituents into personal projects or even political campaigns.

For instance, reports have surfaced of politicians inflating beneficiary lists or fabricating claims to siphon off funds. Such actions constitute theft and deny actual beneficiaries the much-needed support intended for them.

No assurance from Ako Bicol Representative Elizaldy Co, the chair of the House Committee on Appropriations, can alleviate public distrust regarding politicians who benefit from these programs. After all, Co himself is a congressman and stands to gain from this financial assistance.

During election times, the distribution of ayuda funds can be used to manipulate voter sentiment, ensuring that certain politicians gain favor by promising aid that either never materializes or is inadequately distributed.

The transactional approach to public welfare further erodes citizens’ trust in their leaders. It fosters a culture of corruption that can persist well beyond the immediate crisis.

Misuse of these funds has consequences that extend far beyond the financial realm. When people see politicians exploit funds intended for people with low incomes, they may become apathetic toward civic participation and governance.

Politicians’ misuse of Ayuda funds is a serious betrayal of public trust. We must publicly denounce corrupt practices. Through grassroots movements and social media, civic engagement can amplify voices against corruption and pressure politicians to act with integrity.

Only through collective action and vigilance can we ensure that such programs are used to uplift communities rather than enrich unscrupulous politicians.

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