After the Association of Barangay Council of Daanbantayan questioned the AKAP releases in their municipality, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas (DSWD-7) on Monday defended the release saying “there is strict adherence to its regulations and collaboration with the local government units (LGUs)."

DSWD-7 regional director Shalaine Marie Lucero explained that AKAP is a targeted social assistance initiative for minimum wage and low-income earners, both in the formal and informal sectors which is designed to mitigate economic shocks and the impact of rising inflation.

“The program follows Memorandum Circular No. 30, series of 2024, signed by Secretary Rex Gatchalian. Beneficiaries may receive P1,000 to P10,000 based on assessments by social workers,” Lucero told media.

She insisted that eligibility depends on thorough assessments.

Lucero clarified that beneficiaries of other programs, like as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program and Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens, are not automatically excluded.

She said that so long as there is a qualification and assessment process, an individual could be a beneficiary of the aid.

“DSWD-7’s commitment to enhancing collaborations with LGUs reflects a strategic approach to social welfare and development. By fostering these partnerships, DSWD-7 aims to create a more integrated and responsive social support system that effectively meets the diverse needs of the population it serves,” Lucero stressed.