Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Thursday filed administrative charges before the Office of the Ombudsman against local officials in Iloilo City allegedly involved in payout anomalies under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

The move followed a report submitted to Gatchalian on 12 November by DSWD Field Office 6 – Western Visayas, which cited multiple grievance complaints from AICS beneficiaries. According to the report, certain local officials unlawfully took P8,000 from beneficiaries during the AICS payout on 11 November 2025, leaving only P2,000 to the intended recipients.

Gatchalian condemned the alleged corruption, saying such fraudulent practices will not be tolerated under his watch. He also underscored the department’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its social protection programs and ensuring that aid fully reaches eligible beneficiaries.

Criminal cases are now being prepared and evaluated as the DSWD continues gathering evidence.