The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reiterated that mechanisms are in place to safeguard all its programs and services from any form of political interference.

Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao disclosed that these measures will ensure the department’s adherence to the conditions set by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) when it exempted 28 DSWD programs from the poll spending ban.

“We would like to take this opportunity to reiterate and reassure the public that all the necessary safeguards are being instituted by the Department to truly protect the programs and services of the agency from any form of political interference,” Dumlao said.

In a memorandum issued on 7 January 2025, the Comelec approved the DSWD’s request to exempt 28 social welfare programs from Section 261(v)(2) of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC).

The memorandum also ordered the DSWD’s full compliance with three conditions — that no candidates or politicians shall be present during the distribution of aid in any form; that the DSWD must provide the guidelines for public procurements as committed by the agency and that its personnel and partners must faithfully observe these guidelines.

“Based on the conditions set by the Comelec, we will ensure that the DSWD strictly adheres to them,” Dumlao said.

The DSWD official also highlighted the agency’s efforts to educate the public about its programs and services as a crucial safeguard against politicking.

“One of the key pieces of information we convey to the public is regarding the programs and services provided by the DSWD. We explain to them that the assistance provided by the government does not involve any participation from politicians or those running for election,” Dumlao said.

This approach, according to the DSWD spokesperson, empowers the public and voters to make informed decisions and actions, reducing their vulnerability to political interference.

Dumlao reiterated that the DSWD is the sole implementing agency for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program and all other programs of the department.

“We want to clarify that the DSWD is the implementing agency for AICS, and we are responsible for the identification, vetting, and assessment of beneficiaries, as well as the actual distribution of aid,” Dumlao explained.

The DSWD spokesperson said the department is ready to address any grievances regarding observed violations of standard practices.

“We encourage the public to report any concerns to our office so we can conduct the necessary validation and investigation. If necessary, we will elevate the matter to the appropriate agency for appropriate action,” Dumlao said.