The Department of Social Welfare and Development, the government department supporting marginalized Filipinos, extends its caring arm once more with the launching of the AKAP program, also known as Ayuda para sa Kapos and Kita Program. This initiative is the government’s proactive approach in shielding vulnerable Filipinos, especially the “near poor”—a group that comprises minimum wage earners and is at risk of slipping back into poverty because of economic fluctuations and crises that lead to situations like escalating inflation rates.
Secretary Rex Gatchalian, in a compassionate overture, acknowledged that even those slightly above the poverty line, the so-called “near poor,” are integral to the nation and cannot be overlooked. The innovative AKAP program, a component of the 2024 General Appropriations Act, was born out of necessity and vigilance. It serves as a testament to the government’s commitment in helping people against economic adversities that threaten their welfare.
Ayuda para sa Kapos and Kita (AKAP) Program for Near Poor Minimum Wage Earners
The DSWD Secretary emphasized the independence of the welfare-sector’s fiscal decisions, stating respect for the Legislative’s discernment in budget matters. The absence of expenditure from the AKAP fund for 2024 thus far underscores the DSWD’s dedication to devising thorough guidelines ensuring judicious use of the program’s P26.7 billion allocation. He confidently articulated the presumption of the budget’s legitimacy, a reflection of the legislature’s rigorous deliberation process.
Meanwhile, disassociating the AKAP program from the swirling gales of controversy, like its purported link to the “people’s initiative” to amend the Constitution, members of the House of Representatives spoke up. Representative Geraldine Roman of Bataan’s 1st District and AKO BICOL Party-list Rep. Raul Angelo “Jil” Bongalon distinguished AKAP’s intentions and budget from political maneuvers, denouncing such claims as unfounded.
They underscored AKAP’s pure intent: to offer a supportive hand to Filipino citizens teetering on the economic threshold. As the discourse continues on its future, AKAP’s unwavering goal remains clear—to prevent the downward spiral of “near poor” Filipinos and beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) back into the grasp of poverty.
Qualifications
This Ayuda project is intended for Filipinos who are
- Minimum wage earners who are at risk of falling below the poverty line due to economic fluctuations such as inflation
- Households that have transitioned out of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)
- Individuals within the “near poor” category, identified as needing a safety net to avoid slipping into poverty
- Beneficiaries of social welfare seeking assurance against economic shocks disrupting their livelihoods
How to Apply for AKAP Program and Claim Cash Aid Ayuda
As of the moment, the DSWD has not yet released the official guidelines and procedures for applying to the AKAP program. However, here are some initial steps based on previous government assistance programs:
- Check eligibility requirements
- Prepare necessary documents
- Stay updated on announcements
- Coordinate with local government unit (LGU)
- Fill out an application form
- Submit your application
- Wait for confirmation or notification
- Claim your assistance
Again, please stay tuned for the official guidelines and procedures from the DSWD to ensure that you have followed the correct process for applying to the AKAP program.
Video: Press Briefing on Announcement of AKAP Project
Here’s a video of the press briefing on the official announcement of the AKAP Program, with DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and other officials providing details and clarifications about the program.
Video: DSWD: ‘AKAP’ is solely dedicated to assisting Filipinos in need, without being diverted to support other initiatives
Here is a video report by ANC news with DSWD spokesperson, ASec Romel Lopez emphasizing that the AKAP program is intended to assist Filipinos in need and not for any other initiative.
Summary
In summary, the Department of Social Welfare and Development has launched the AKAP program, or Ayuda para sa Kapos and Kita Program, to support the “near poor” Filipinos who are at risk of falling back into poverty due to economic shifts. Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized the program’s independence from political influences, and members of the legislature have clarified that its budget is allocated solely for the welfare of the beneficiaries, distinct from any constitutional amendments initiative.