assistance

Conditional cash transfers are just one of the programs under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The DSWD is the government agency responsible for providing social protection services to Filipino families in need. The DSWD has various programs that help its beneficiaries, including those who are underprivileged and those living in poverty.

Also Read: DSWD Targeted Cash Transfer (TCT) Program

What makes conditional cash transfers unique is that it gives their beneficiaries a chance to improve their lives by providing them with the means to do so. This is done by giving them cash grants and other incentives, depending on how well they perform in specific activities such as health checkups for pregnant women and children below five years old, hence, the term “conditional cash transfers“. To learn more about the DSWD’s CCT program, keep reading below.

What is the DSWD Modified Conditional Cash Transfer Program (CCT)?

The goal of the MCCT Program is to reach out to families who are more vulnerable and poor but are not covered by the regular cash transfer program. This is because they were excluded from the list of households that were targeted by the NHTS or Listahanan.

This program aims to provide financial assistance to children and families the regular CCT does not cover.

Also Read: How to Apply DSWD Unconditional Cash Transfer Program

Majority of migrant families spend most of their time on the streets since it is how they earn a living. Indigenous people (IP) families are typically seen in urbanized or rural regions. Families with disabled children are those whose children have long-term mental, sensory, or physical impairments that can prevent them from fully participating in society. On the other hand, child laborers work to provide for their families. These include children who work in hazardous conditions and are exposed to child sexual exploitation.

The MCCT seeks to assist homeless, former street children in the transition from living on the street to a more decent dwelling unit; to facilitate access of IPs in GIDA and other FNSPs to health, education and other basic social services; zero deaths among infants and children under five years old; zero deaths among pregnant women under normal conditions; all 3-5 years old children are availing early childhood care and development services; all 6-18 years old children in target areas are in school; and third-degree malnourished children under five years old are rehabilitated.

The Modified Conditional Cash Transfer (MCCT) program is a program that aims to reduce poverty among families living in urban poor communities. This program covers all expenses for the child’s education and nutrition and provides basic health services, if necessary. The MCCT is conditional on school attendance, regular participation in health education activities, and ensuring that children are not employed as laborers by their parents or guardians.

MCCT also aims to return children to school and facilitate their regular attendance, including access to Alternative Delivery Mode and other special learning modes; facilitate access to health and nutrition services through regular visits to health centers; enhance parenting roles through participation in Family Development Sessions (FDS), and reunite children from the streets with their families.

Beneficiaries of the MCCT will receive cash grants if they meet the following conditions: weekly attendance at FDS for the first two months; once a month attendance at FDS and family counseling sessions for the following months; attendance at Alternative mode of learning or formal schools; visits to health centers; and residing in a permanent residence after six months of social preparation.

Benefits

MCCT supplies HSF, IPs in GIDA, and FNSP with financial grants and necessary social welfare measures. In addition, it offers partner-families with additional support services or interventions that enhance their access to health and educational resources until they are ready to be integrated into the normal CCT.

A. Straight Grants

a. Education grant of P300 per month for every beneficiary kid enrolled in daycare, pre-school, and elementary school.

b. Education grant of P500 per month for beneficiary child enrolled in high school.

c. Health grant of P500 per family recipient

Education grants are awarded for each dependent kid, up to a maximum of three, commencing with the youngest and without replacement.

B. Service Support Intervention For HSF

a. Assistance with shelter in the sum of P4,000, which may be provided as early as the first month of membership and for a maximum of 12 months. The lessor receives payments, not the recipient.

b. Access to employment and livelihood possibilities, such as cash-for-work and the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), may be made available to members in their fifth month of membership.

Regarding IP in GIDA

Other incentives may be employed for community-initiated initiatives or activities that generate cash for the community.

Qualifications

Target beneficiaries of MCCT are:

• homeless street families,
• indigenous peoples in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA), and
• families in need of special protection (FNSP).

These are called “partner families” in the program.

Requirements

Mainstreaming of MCCT beneficiaries into the Regular CCT shall be determined based upon the assessment of the caseworker/community facilitator given the following criteria:

1. Identified “Poor” by Listahanan based on the result of the Proxy Means Test

2. With eligible members aged 0-18 years old children and/or pregnant member during first monitoring period in the RCCT (eligibility requirement shall follow the existing requirements of the RCCT)

3. ‘Compliance to conditionalities from the last six (6) months before mainstreaming assessment. Active registered families who were assessed as compliant

to the conditionalities of the program as applicable:

• 85% attendance in education services (3-18 yrs. old monitored

children)

• 85% compliance with the availment of health services

85% compliance to FDS

4. Homeless families already staying for at least 3 consecutive months in a safe home or

secured residence.

Note: Succeeding assessment will be conducted on a yearly basis.

• They must have children aged 0-18 years old and/or with pregnant member of the family at the time of selection
• They must be willing and committed to comply with the program conditionalities and cooperate in the helping process; and
• They must be excluded from the NHTS database and the Pantawid Pamilya Program

How to Process DSWD Conditional Cash Transfer

The caseworker, community facilitator, or municipal link will prepare the beneficiaries for the mainstreaming process by providing them with the necessary information and orientation. This will be done through the Family Development Sessions and the mainstreaming modules.

After reviewing the status of the MCCT database, the regional focus with the CMT will then engage in a pre-orientation session to prepare for the mainstreaming process. The Community facilitator or caseworker will facilitate this.

The regional preparation phase involves reviewing the family information and ensuring that all the necessary steps have been completed. This includes the inventory of compliance reporting and payment processing.

The MCCT beneficiaries’ mainstreaming process will begin once the database has been reviewed and the list of them submitted to Listahanan, which will include Segregating the beneficiaries who were part of Lists 1 and 2. Those who were not part of the list will be given extraordinary validation.

Here’s Why Conditional Cash Transfers Work

Critics say that the CCT program could not create jobs or provide adequate health care for the poor. However, the government argues that it has helped improve school attendance and reduce violence in areas plagued by conflict.

The government is planning on spending even more on its flagship program, which aims to improve school attendance and reduce violence in certain areas. By 2015, a quarter of the country’s population is expected to be covered by the program, which is unprecedented in the country’s history. Among the beneficiaries will be the disabled, abandoned children, and those who have been displaced by conflict or calamities.

The success of the cash transfer program has been attributed to its sustained global attention. It started as early as the 1990s in various parts of Latin America and Brazil. The program has been implemented through various permutations in different countries, including metropolitan areas such as New York. Despite the widespread use of these programs, persistent poverty still remains a major issue in many areas.

The concept of cash transfer programs is simple: They provide cash grants to families to help with their children’s education and health needs. These funds are usually given to the families after they meet the government’s requirements. Unlike traditional welfare programs, which were designed to benefit everyone, cash transfer programs are more conservative.

The goal of cash transfer programs is to punish the parents of the poorest families for their failure to provide adequate care for their children. Instead of directly intervening, the State uses this method to monitor the welfare of the children.

Cash transfer programs aim to change the lives of the poor by addressing their root causes. In other words, they are not designed to affect the people who are currently affected by poverty immediately. Instead, they are aimed at addressing the issue in the future.

Similar to other new programs, cash transfer programs have mixed results. As with other initiatives, they need to be re-calibrated and refined to reach their goals. This article will review the state of the cash transfer program in the Philippines. We will also look at its potential shortcomings and examine its applications. In addition, we will talk about the recommendations that policymakers and scholars have made to improve the program.

The 4Ps

Four million poor households are receiving conditional transfers as part of the government’s flagship anti-poverty program, known as the 4Ps.

According to the DSWD’s first quarter report, the 4Ps have been fully covered in all areas of the country. This includes the municipalities, regional, and provincial levels.

The program’s goal is to invest in the country’s human capital by providing financial support to the families of poor children and keeping them in school.

The cash transfers are based on the household’s compliance with these conditions. In the first quarter of this year, the compliance rates for both the health and education components were high. In addition, the percentage of children immunized against diseases has increased significantly.

One of the most significant social challenges that the country faces today is the high number of maternal deaths. Since the CCTs have encouraged women to seek health care before and after childbirth, this has been very important.

According to Dinky Soliman, the former social welfare secretary, women in 4P families are more likely to have at least four prenatal visits. This has resulted in a significant increase in their compliance rate, from 54 percent to 64 percent. An impact evaluation of the program revealed that mothers in these families receive more health care services before and after childbirth.

Apart from helping children, the program also aims to empower parents. Through Family Development Sessions, this component provides them with the necessary tools and resources to look after their kids.

Early success

The 4Ps have been regarded as the country’s biggest social protection program. It is similar to programs in other Latin American countries, such as Mexico’s Oportunidades and Brazil’s Bolsa Familia.

The Bolsa Familia program is one of the most prominent initiatives of Brazil’s economic and social transformation. It was first implemented in 2003. Since then, it has reached over 46 million people.

In the past five years, Brazil has lifted over 22 million people out of extreme poverty. The richest 20% of the country’s population has seen its wealth decline, while the poorest 20% has gained.

In Mexico, the Oportunidades has been credited with reducing the number of illness cases among children enrolled in the program.

Reducing conflict

After five years, the 4Ps have been shown to impact the communities they serve positively. In a study conducted by the University of Denver, researchers noted that the 4Ps helped reduce the incidence of civil conflict in the Philippines.

The study, which was conducted by the Philippine Armed Forces, showed that the number of reported conflicts decreased significantly in the areas where the program was implemented in 2009. This is because the country is home to numerous violent communist and Islamic groups.

The study also noted that cash transfers can help the public trust the government and provide actionable information about insurgents. Also, these transactions increase the risk of insurgents joining them once they become active.

Cash transfers are believed to be more effective in reducing conflict than community-driven development programs. These transactions are less likely to be intercepted and can be carried out without attracting the attention of insurgents. In addition, in-kind and physical aid can increase the number of resources that both parties have available to fight.

A study conducted on Colombia’s version of CCTs revealed that these transactions help increase the number of people enrolled in areas affected by violent conflicts. Like the Philippines, Colombia is also affected by separatist guerilla movements.

Leakage rate

Various international organizations have praised the program for its contribution to improving education and health in the developing world.

Some people are not impressed by the 4Ps. They claim that they are just Band-aids designed to provide temporary social protection.

The IBON Foundation, however, sees the program as a dole-out program that only exacerbates the country’s debt. The Asian Development Bank and the World Bank partially fund the program.

According to IBON, the 4Ps are not sustainable and have minimal impact on reducing poverty. A local urban poor organization, KADAMAY, also claims that despite the huge budget allocated for the program, the CCTs have not improved the lives of the poor.

In February this year, KADAMAY’s leader Carlito Badion said that instead of using the funds allocated for the program to provide CCTs, the government should focus on developing industries that can create jobs for the poor.

Despite the country’s impressive economic growth of 7.8% during the first quarter of this year, the income gap in the Philippines has not decreased. According to the latest statistics from the country’s statistical agency, the poverty incidence has not changed.

A study conducted by the Philippines Institute for Development Studies revealed that the 4Ps had not reached all of their intended beneficiaries. According to the study presented at a recent global development conference, the program has a leakage rate of around 29%.

Only 7.2% of the income poor who were given cash transfers became non-poor. The DSWD uses a combination of methods to identify its beneficiaries. These include geographic targeting and a proxy-meant method known as the NHTS-PR. The municipalities that have high poverty incidence rates are then selected.

The NHTS-PR uses a sliding scale to determine the poor households affected by the program. If a household has a pregnant woman or her children below the age of 14, they are eligible for the program.

The NHTS-PR has estimated that over 5.2 million poor families are in the Philippines. Over 80% of them live in rural areas.

High school completion

According to Reyes, the drop in school enrollment among children from 4P families is significant. This is because the kids from these families are no longer eligible for cash transfers.

According to a study conducted by the Public Interest Data Systems, the school attendance rate for 4P families drops dramatically as children grow older.

There is no substantial difference in school attendance between children from 4P and non–4P families.

In a previous policy paper, Reyes noted that the Philippines’ version of the cash transfer program is similar to that of other Latin American countries. For instance, in Mexico, the Oportunidades provides cash assistance to students until they reach the age of 22. It also provides economic incentives to graduates who finish high school before the age of 22.

In Brazil, the Bolsa Familia provides greater financial assistance to adolescents than to children. It also covers them until they reach the age of 17 years old.

He noted that the program should focus on high school instead of elementary completion since there are better job opportunities for graduates from this level of education.

According to a study conducted by Dr. Celia Reyes of the PIDS (Philippine Institute for Development Studies), graduates of high school in the Philippines earn about 45% more than those who have only attended elementary school. This suggests that the 4Ps can benefit from the program by investing in human capital.

Boys left behind

Many boys from the poorest families leave the school system early to help their families earn more money. During a Global Development Conference held in 2015, it was widely agreed that income disparity is one of the most significant factors that prevent people from achieving full development. A study by Alejandro Hoyos and Hugo opo on the Latin American experience revealed that over a decade of investments in community development projects (CCTs) have significantly reduced inequality in the region.

It was also revealed that even though the number of people living in poverty had decreased, it had not always been reduced. This is due to various factors, such as the deteriorating standard of education.

According to a report by the World Bank, the increasing number of boys from the lowest socioeconomic groups leaving schools to look for work or join gangs is a major issue that needs to be addressed.

The report also noted that in 2011, more boys than girls dropped out of school. Around six out of every ten teenagers were working instead of studying.

This issue has to be addressed in the country, as it may well happen in the near future. One of the most effective ways to address this issue is by implementing programs that provide different levels of support for different age groups. For instance, instead of giving a monthly payment of P300 for each child, the government should provide more support to help children finish high school.

Future plans: Modified CCTs

According to the program, it should focus on providing aid for five to ten years instead of the usual two to three. This would allow the beneficiaries to finish high school.

According to Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, the government is considering extending the program’s grant to ensure the beneficiaries finish high school. This would allow them to get more employment opportunities.

Aside from increasing the number of beneficiaries, the government is also planning to extend the program’s coverage. One of the ways to do this is through a modified conditional cash transfer (MCCT). This method will allow the government to provide aid to families that have been affected by conflicts and calamities.

The children who are considered for inclusion in the program are those who have various forms of disability. They may have been abandoned or forced to work.

The DSWD’s NHTO has started a validation program to address the leakage rate. This involves validating the poor households in each area. The list is then posted in prominent locations in the community to encourage the public to react if they see an incorrect family.

Staff members of the NHTO then receive complaints and queries. These are then forwarded to a local verification committee, which handles these appeals and complaints.

As the Philippines pursues the Millennium Development Goals, it is now more important that the government focuses on bringing development to all sectors of the society. Long-term returns on human capital investment will not be seen immediately. Therefore, it is important to remember that CCTs serve as a social investment.

According to the National Statistics Board, the government needs to allocate about P180 billion annually for the implementation of its poverty-reduction program. This year’s allotment has increased to P44. billion.

Despite the government’s financial constraints, the 4Ps have been able to make significant progress in improving the quality of education and addressing various social issues.

The 4Ps are expected to cover around 28 million poor Filipinos in 2015. This is a quarter of the country’s population and the largest number of people covered under a social protection program in history. Even as the economy grows, we must continue to ensure that the poor are not left behind.

Video: In numbers: The conditional cash transfer program | ANC

Here’s a report on where the DSWD’s Conditional Cash Transfer law has effectively improved families’ lives. The report also highlights areas where it can do better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the DSWD’s modified conditional cash transfer program.

1. Why is it called “modified”?

This strategy is modified because it combines CCT and various conditionalities. These modifications include the implementation of different modes of action and the targeting of benefits.

2. Who are considered “families in need of special protection”?

FNSPs are individuals who have been displaced due to armed conflicts or natural disasters. They are usually placed in temporary shelters or evacuation centers.

3. What is the coverage of the MCCT?

The implementation of the MCCT has affected 3,774 street families and over 100,000 families in IPGIDA. Similarly, over 51,824 families have been affected by the FNSP.

4. What are the objectives of the MCCT Program?

MCCT seeks to:

• Assist HSF in the transition from living in the streets to a more decent dwelling unit;

• Facilitate access of HSF, IPs in GIDA and other FNSP to health, education and other basic social services;

• Zero deaths among infants and children, and children under five years old;

• Zero deaths among pregnant women under normal conditions;

• Ensure all 3-5 years old children are availing of early childhood care and development

services;

• Ensure all 6-18 years old children in target areas are in school;

• Ensure third-degree malnourished children under five years of age are rehabilitated.

5. What are the obligations of the partner family under the MCCT?

• Attendance to school either in formal or by Alternative Delivery Mode of Learning
• Availment of health care services in
  accordance with the Department of Health (DOH) protocols
• Attendance to Family Development Sessions

Summary

The DSWD has adopted a very promising approach to address the needs of the most vulnerable sector in our society. It is a holistic approach that not only provides direct services to indigent families but also helps them overcome poverty and achieve self-reliance. The MCCT is one of DSWD’s programs that seeks to transform lives by empowering families towards economic independence.

We hope this article has helped you better understand the program. If you have any questions or concerns, please leave them in your comments below or visit the DSWD’s official website for further information.

The DSWD Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) Program is a social protection initiative of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The program provides cash transfers, with no conditions attached, to qualified poor households during emergencies and natural disasters. This aid aims to ensure that families affected by sudden events have access to basic needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, or education expenses. It also helps them recover from the financial losses caused by unexpected and unavoidable circumstances.

Also Read: What is DSWD AICS Program – Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations

UCT grants are usually provided on an emergency basis depending on the severity of the event. To qualify for this grant, households must meet certain criteria set by DSWD based on their socio-economic status. These include being members of vulnerable groups such as indigenous peoples or persons with disabilities and having incomes below the poverty threshold.

When taxes come to mind, more often than not, the response would be that taxes are a burden and everyone hates them. However, when we look at our taxes as a form of public service, there is no way to avoid the fact that taxes are necessary for the well-being of society.

That being said, did you know that one of the biggest tax reform mitigation programs under the TRAIN Law is the DSWD Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) Program? Yes, there is a great benefit to the TRAIN Law than what simply meets the eye. In this guide, we will provide you with an overview of the DSWD-UCT Program, its objectives, coverage, eligibility requirements and much more.

What is the DSWD Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) Program?

The UCT is the biggest mitigation program for the tax reform passed by the TRAIN Law. It provides cash grants to low-income families and individuals who are not able to benefit from the lower tax rates.

The DSWD launched the Unconditional Cash Transfer program in 2013 to provide cash assistance to families in extreme poverty. Through this program, the government provides financial support to help individuals and families in need.

The objective of the UCT program is to reduce vulnerability and poverty by providing cash transfers to eligible families. It is a key component of the Philippine government’s strategy to reduce poverty.

This is great news for millions of families who are struggling to get by. It is also good news for the economy as cash transfers help boost consumption and reduce the incidence of poverty in the Philippines.

The Cash Transfer Program is a government program that provides financial assistance to low-income families. It is designed to help them meet their basic needs.

The DSWD is responsible for administering the program. It is responsible for identifying and distributing cash grants to eligible families.

There are two key features of the DSWD UCT program: (a) the cash transfer is provided every month, and (2) the cash transfer is provided without strings attached. This means that families can use the money for whatever they want.

While this might seem like a recipe for abuse, research shows that the program has been very effective in helping poor families. For example, a study by the World Bank found that cash transfers reduced poverty rates by between 20% and 30%.

The UCT will reach 10 million households/individuals. This figure includes 4.4 million Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries. By 2018, the DSWD will have provided cash cards to 1.8 million users. The remaining 2.6 million families will be chosen from the Listahanan, which will be vetted to guarantee that individuals who would benefit from the UCT program are from the lowest 1st to 7th income deciles, as specified by the relevant legislation.

Legal Bases

Here are the laws and circulars that were passed to put the UCT in place:

• Republic Act 10963 (TRAIN Law) – The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) legislation, also known as Republic Act No. 10963, was approved by the Senate and House of Representatives in Congress (i.e. legislative) and signed by the President for the compliance of all Filipino people. This legislation is commonly known as the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) legislation. The President has tasked the Department of Finance with its smooth implementation and the Bureau of Internal Revenue will be releasing implementing rules and regulations as well as advisory to provide details and clarify how the TRAIN’s revisions will be applied.
• Republic Act 10964 (GAA 2018) – The Philippines’ Republic Act 10964 provides for the establishment of a fund for the operation of the government. It is intended to provide for the establishment of a fund for the maintenance of public services.
• Department of Finance, Department of Budget and Management, and Department of Social Welfare and Development Joint Circular No. 2018 – 001 –
• Republic Act 7432 – The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act of 2010 (RA 10963) was enacted to provide a comprehensive package of tax reforms that will help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the tax system. It aims to provide a more equitable distribution of resources to the people. It also aims to ensure that the government can provide for the needs of the people through the establishment of more effective infrastructure and social protection.
• The Departments of Social Welfare and Development and the other agencies that are mandated to implement the provisions of Republic Act 10963 (RA 10963) on the identification and implementation of social welfare programs and benefits should come up with a joint memorandum circular that provides a comprehensive list of guidelines and procedures.
• The implementing rules and regulations of each program are prepared by the agency or department with the mandate to carry out the program. These documents are attached to the Joint Monitoring Committee’s (JMC) transparency and accountability listing.
• DSWD Memorandum Circular No.3 series of 2018 – The government’s comprehensive tax reform program aims to improve the tax system’s efficiency and equity to promote investment, reduce poverty, and create jobs. It complements ongoing economic, budget, and customs reforms to improve food security, simplify regulations, and secure property rights.
• The first of five tax reform packages were presented to Congress. Among the key measures is the reduction of personal income tax, broadening the value-added tax base, and removing various exemptions. These reforms are also expected to increase the excise on oil products, automobiles, and sugar-sweetened beverages.
• The tax reform program aims to reduce the effects of increasing prices on the poor and vulnerable by implementing social mitigation measures. One of the most effective measures that the government has used to implement this strategy is the UCT.
• The UCT provides cash grants to the poor and individuals who may not be able to benefit from the lower tax rates. It also aims to help vulnerable individuals and households affected by rising prices.

Benefits

There is much to be said about how the DSWD’s UCT program can benefit its target populations:

The UCT program uses two separate approaches to alleviating poverty through the following:

1. Providing financial aid to low-income families offers these households the much-required support they need to make ends meet.
2. Since the cash grant may be used for anything, recipients can spend the money on whatever they feel is most suitable for them, given the grant’s flexibility. Because of this, they can make food purchases, pay their bills for utilities, and even start a small business.

In addition to reducing the effects of poverty, the UCT program also helps to bring about a more equitable distribution of social resources. This is because the cash awards are designed for low-income families, who have a higher risk of being poor and hence are more likely to need assistance.

The Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) Program will be implemented for three years. For 2018, families will receive P200 a month, while the annual payment will be P2,400. This has been increased to P300 in 2019 and 2020, amounting to P3,600 annually.

There is a narrowing of the wealth gap between these families and other households due to the provision of financial aid to these families.

Qualifications

So, “who are those qualified for this program?”, you may ask.

Participants in the following groups will be eligible to receive cash transfers under the Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) Program:

– Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program households (4Ps Households)

– Recipients of the Social Pension Program, as specified by Republic Act No. 7432, generally referred to as the Senior Citizens Act, and as updated by Republic Acts Nos. 9257 and 9994 (Social Pension Beneficiaries)

– Any additional low-income households included in the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) database, provided that they are ranked somewhere between the first and seventh deciles of expected income.

Families must fulfill the following requirements to be eligible for the DSWD UCT program

• Households must live in areas identified as poverty hotspots by the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB).
• Families are unable to get other types of government financial assistance, such as 4Ps and the Social Amelioration Program (SAP).
• To establish their identity and address, households must have a valid identification card, such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Additional low-income households are included in the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) database if their predicted income falls between the first and seventh deciles (NHTS-PR Households).
• Unpaid taxes or utility bills must be the only outstanding debts between families and the government.

Requirements

Here is the list of documentary requirements for those who qualify for the program:

• A photocopy of any acceptable ID (such as a GSIS UMID or voter’s ID)
• 2×2 ID photo
• properly completed Form for Know-Your-Customer (KYC) (from LBP)
• Payouts made over the counter:

For grantees who will be in person:

• Valid ID (if no valid ID, Barangay Certification with Full Name, Birthdate, and Mother’s Name is acceptable)
• Certificate of Name Discrepancy (for beneficiaries whose names appear differently on their valid ID than on their payroll).

For Authorized Representatives

• Grantees who, owing to unforeseen circumstances, are unable to attend payout should contact their authorized representative (e.g., medical condition, working away)
• Valid ID of the Grantee (or, in the absence of a valid ID, a Barangay Certification confirming the Full Name, Date of Birth, and Mother’s Name)
• Valid ID of the authorized representative (or, in the absence of a valid ID, a barangay certification with the representative’s full name, birthdate, and mother’s name)
• Letter of Permission

Deceased Grantees

• In the absence of a legitimate ID, the grantee must present a barangay certification that includes their full name, date of birth, and mother’s name.
• In the absence of a valid ID, the barangay certification must include the authorized representative’s full name, date of birth, and mother’s name.
• Any document proving the dead grantee’s connection to the designated representative (such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate).
• Special Power of Attorney or Proof Authority.

How to Claim DSWD Unconditional Cash Transfer Program

Step 1: Visit the nearest DSWD office in your area.

Step 2: Fill out an application form and submit it to the DSWD office in your area if you are interested in applying for the DSWD Unconditional Cash Transfer program.

The DSWD website provides access to the application form that must be completed.

Step 3: DSWD welfare officers will assess your application and once approved, will disburse the cash aid.

Video: Editor’s Cut – DSWD Unconditional Cash Transfer

Here’s a video clip highlighting the launch of the DSWD launches UCT-SOCPEN program in Cavite. The UCT-SOCPEN program of the DSWD provides cash grants to low-income families in the Philippines. It aims to cushion the effects of the TRAIN Law on the consumption of basic commodities.

The program provides monthly cash assistance worth Php 200 to Php 300, which can be used to buy food, medicine and other necessities. The program aims to provide families with a safety net during times of hardship.

Ano ba ang Unconditional Cash Transfer ng DSWD?
Basahin po ang mga materyal na ito upang lalong mapaliwanagan sa usaping ito@dswdserves #DSWDParaSaNakararami #DSWDMayMalasakit pic.twitter.com/lQ32botnVn

— DSWD Region II (@dswdfo2) March 9, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are unrestricted cash transfers effective?

Unconditional cash transfers, according to supporters, are an effective technique for fighting poverty. They show that such transfers may increase annual household expenditure by 0.35 per transfer unit. Furthermore, they propose that cash transfers may reduce inequality and provide a safety net for society’s most vulnerable members.

2. What is the goal of the unconditional cash transfer program?

The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Unconditional Financial Transfer program is a government subsidy that provides financial assistance to qualified low-income households.

The program is designed to help people satisfy basic needs, including food, shelter, and clothing. Furthermore, it provides a safety net for families trying to make ends meet. The cash are deposited into the recipient’s bank account and may be used anyway they see fit.

3. What are the benefits of money transfers?

There are various cash transfer methods, each with its own set of benefits. Some programs, for example, offer a one-time payment to help with the expense of an unexpected requirement, such as a medical bill or car repair.

Others make periodic donations to help with expenses like rent and food. Nonetheless, some provide both one-time and periodic payments, enabling recipients to utilize the cash as they see fit.

Whatever kind of cash transfer program you pick, you can be assured that the benefits will far outweigh the costs.

4. What is the cost of unconditional cash transfer?

The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Unconditional Financial Transfer program is a government subsidy that provides financial assistance to qualified low-income households. The program is designed to help people satisfy basic needs, including food, shelter, and clothing. Furthermore, it provides a safety net for families trying to make ends meet. The cash is deposited into the recipient’s bank account and may be used any way they see fit. There are no strings attached to the money, so recipients are free to spend it any way they see fit.

5. Can a Social Pension beneficiary receive a separate UCT grant?

A Social Pension beneficiary may receive a separate UCT Cash Grant if he or she belongs to a household with a 4Ps or NHTS-PR household.

6. When will the DSWD determine beneficiaries?

The DSWD will begin identifying and determining beneficiaries at the start of the financial year. Even though a beneficiary may be affected by supervening events, such as the death of a Social Pensioner before the grant’s payout date, they will still be entitled to the cash grants.

7. What does the DSWD do with UCT Funds?

The DSWD collaborated with other agencies, such as the DOF and the DBM, to implement the UCT program. The circular states that the funds will be deposited with the Land Bank of the Philippines and used in accordance with the agency’s operational guidelines. To minimize administrative expenses, the DSWD will give cash grants on a yearly basis.

8. What is UCT tax?

The Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) Program is a component of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law that provides cash subsidies to the poor to help them cushion the effects of the program. It is considered the biggest mitigation program of the tax reform law. Under the program, 10 million individuals receive monthly cash subsidies of P200.

9. Who are the first beneficiaries of the UCT?

The first beneficiaries of the UCT are the Pantawid households with Land Bank cash cards and those who access their benefits over the counter. Under the TRAIN law, the total number of Filipino households and individuals who will receive the UCT is 10 million.

10. Why is DSWD shifting to cash cards for senior citizens?

To ensure the safety and welfare of senior citizens, the DSWD has started implementing a cash-card program for the distribution of social pension benefits and uncashed transfers.

11. What will be the impact of the TRAIN law?

In the first three months of 2018, the national government was able to boost the amount of money it brought in by 16.4%. This was made possible in part by the law known as TRAIN. According to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), TRAIN increased by Php12.5 billion in total tax revenue. According to news sources, there was a reduction in income from value-added tax (VAT) of three billion, although there were profits of four point seven three million from petroleum excise tax.

Summary

With the help of the DSWD’s Unconditional Cash Transfer Program, many Filipinos were able to afford basic needs. This includes food, clothing, and shelter. The program has been in effect for only three years since its introduction and has proven itself as an effective way for the government to help those in need.

In places where disaster had struck, the DSWD Cash for Work program is implemented to provide assistance to victims and their families. The DSWD Cash for Work Program provides employment opportunities to affected individuals through the rehabilitation of public infrastructure projects like building houses, roads and bridges.

Also Read: List of DSWD Programs, Projects and Services

Though it is not meant to support affected individuals and their families in the long term, it is a welcome relief for them. The program is particularly effective in areas with no jobs or livelihood opportunities available to affected individuals and families. The DSWD Cash for Work Program also helps government agencies and local government units quickly restore vital public services, such as water supply systems, roads and bridges. Find out more about this program in the following sections:

What is the DSWD Cash for Work Program?

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has a provision of short-term work opportunities to those who are currently experiencing financial hardship or displacement is the primary objective of the Cash for Work program. It entails taking part in a variety of activities and projects that are intended to make their lives better.

The community can utilize the program as a short-term solution to solve its issues, and it is available to them. It entails locating work locations and activities that are oriented toward making the lives of the people who are participating in the project better. The individuals who participate in the program are offered monetary remuneration in exchange for the services they provide.

Following a natural disaster, it is possible to immediately begin work on projects that are associated with the Cash for Work program. This is something that can be done regardless of whether the catastrophe was caused by natural forces or by humans. The various local government units’ social welfare and development offices are the organizations tasked with carrying out the program’s actual implementation.

These projects include any, but are not limited to the following, implemented in coordination and collaboration with LGUs and other government agencies and private organizations:

• Environmental protection and preservation such as tree planting/reforestation, coastal clean-up, etc.;
• Support to construction or repair of small-scale community infrastructures such as irrigation canals, deep well or water systems, pit drainage, water reservoir, etc.;
• Food security interventions, such as communal gardening and agricultural production. etc.; and
• Other climate and disaster mitigation and preparedness activities.

Benefits of the DSWD Cash for Work Program

• Encourage the participation of the community in developing a community-defined project involving disaster preparedness, response, rehabilitation, and reconstruction.
• Provide temporary employment and improve the income of the participants.
• Prevent individuals and families from leaving their communities in search of new sources of income through the provision of income augmentation of a daily rate of the existing minimum wage in the region.

Qualifications

The DSWD has identified the following persons as qualified to apply for the DSWD Cash for Work Program:

Target Beneficiaries

The target beneficiaries shall be any of the hereunder priority sectors:

• Poor families as identified under the DSWD Listahanan;
• Poor families excluded from the DSWD Listahanan as assessed by the LSWDO;
• Indigenous People (IP);
• Families with vulnerable members such as Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Senior Citizens, Solo Parents, etc.

These are the ones who have the most urgent needs for cash assistance, and thus are prioritized in the implementation of the program. Additional Requirements Qualified applicants shall also be required to undergo a pre-qualification assessment conducted by their local government unit (LGU) through their Local Social Welfare and Development Office (LSWDO), which will determine whether they are eligible to join Cash for Work Program.

Eligibility Requirements

The project reach shall focus on any of the following areas:

• Eighteen (18) major river basins as identified by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR);
• Ten (10) identified principal river basins as identified by the DENR;
• Four (4) major urban centers as recommended by DENR;
• Eight hundred twenty-two (822) coastal municipalities as identified by DENR;
• Twenty-two (22) vulnerable provinces as recommended by DENR; and
• Other areas that are economically vulnerable and are historically susceptible to disaster hazards as assesses and identified by the DSWD Field Office and Local Social Welfare Department.

Aside from their geographic location, the identified vulnerable areas are also those that have a high concentration of people who are poor and whose livelihoods depend on natural resources. These include areas within the coastal regions, river basins and watersheds, as well as urban centers in the Philippines.

The DSWD will take an active role in profiling, identifying, and prioritizing the most vulnerable areas in the country. This will be done through a collaborative effort with other line agencies, local government units (LGUs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other stakeholders. The DSWD will also be responsible for developing mechanisms for assisting those who need it most during disasters and calamities, and shall ultimately decide who will be the most affected by a disaster and what kind of assistance they will need.

The DSWD has prepared a database containing information about communities vulnerable to disasters. This database is being updated regularly with the help of other line agencies and LGUs.

Requirements

Joining the program requires the willingness to be trained and to work with the DSWD in livelihood and productivity support projects, developmental and collective community or group undertaking related to disaster mitigation, risk reduction, and rehabilitation.

And once these projects have been carried out, approval for the release of funds shall be based on the submission of the following:

• Project Proposal submitted and signed by the Local Chief Executive (LCE) or Designated Alternate Officer (Head of Local Social Welfare Development Office) and recommended for approval by the Head of the Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD) and for approval by the Regional Director
• The master list of beneficiaries shall be certified and signed by the LCE or Designated Alternate Officer (Head of Local Social Welfare Development Office), recommended for approval by the DRMD Head and approved by the Regional Director
• Allocation and obligation of funds shall be based on the submitted Project Proposal duly approved/signed by the Regional Director with the required enclosures
• A Daily Time Record (DTR), Logbook or Daily Attendance Sheet is admissible to record the actual engagement of the CFW beneficiaries in community works. Further, these shall be kept by the DSWD Field Office and ensure that they would be available during the monitoring of the concerned offices in the Region and Central Office

Components of the DSWD Cash For Work (CFW) Program

1. Assessment and Identification of Proposed Projects/ Activities

The P/C/MSWDO will conduct an assessment to identify the potential beneficiaries of the program and develop a strategy for addressing their needs. It will also consult with the LGU to establish a feasible and efficient CFW.

The assessment will cover the following areas: a) the beneficiaries’ capability to provide for their fellow citizens; b) the socio-economic benefits that the project will bring them; c) the acceptability of the project by the community; and d) the cost and implementation of the project.

2. Preparation of Project Proposal

After conducting the assessment and identifying the project’s potential beneficiaries, the P/C/MSWDO will then prepare a project proposal that will provide the necessary details of the project. This will include the project’s scope and objectives, budget, work program, and other related documents.

3. Provision of Financial Assistance/Project Funding

After receiving the proposals for more than one million pesos, the P/C/MSWDO will then submit them to the Program Management Bureau for further evaluation and approval. The funding for the project will then be transferred to the local government units through the Field Office.

The project’s requirements will be attached to the proposal, and the certification of the availability of the local government units’ counterpart resources will be signed by the chief executive. This will allow the P/C/MSWDO to confirm that the local government units can provide the necessary resources for the project.

4. Implementation of CFW Project/Activity

The local government units will then implement the project’s activities and requirements following the approval of the project by the DSWD-Field Office.

Participants of the CFW program will be issued with a Cash-for-Work voucher, which will reflect their participation in the various projects that they have been involved in. The local government units will also maintain a logbook to record their daily attendance.

The attendance logbook and the CFW voucher will be used by the P/C/MSWDO to prepare the cash assistance payroll. These documents will serve as supporting documents for the reports that will be submitted to the DSWD-Field Office. The LGU should also keep a copy of these records so that they can be easily accessed during the monitoring visit of the central office or the field office.

After the project or activity is completed, the P/C/MSWDO will then prepare a completion report that will include a summary of the activities and achievements of the project. This report will be forwarded to the local chief executive. The main focus of this report will be on the project’s implementation and the results of the activities related to the project’s requirements.

The copy of this report will be forwarded to the DSWD-Field Office, which will then review and take appropriate action. The field office will also provide a copy of the report to the central office through its operations and capacity-building group.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation

The Cash-for-Work program has three levels of monitoring. These include the LGU, the DSWD Field Office, and the DSWD Central Office. The monitoring of the LGU will be carried out on a daily basis, and it will be coordinated with the appropriate offices. These include the public works, engineering, and general services departments. The program of work will also be monitored through the P/C/MSWDO, and shall cover the following:

a. Program of Work – tracking the progress of the project or activity based on the approved program of work.

b. Project Activity – verifying whether the actual project or activity being undertaken including its location site is exactly consistent with the approved project proposal.

c. Beneficiaries – determining if the beneficiaries involved in the actual project or activity are the intended recipients of the Cash-for-Work and if number is in accordance with the proposed manpower or labor requirement.

The monitoring of the Cash-for-work program in the field office is carried out on a regular basis using a random sampling method. The objective of the monitoring is to provide the Central Office with the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding the program. This includes checking the status of the wage payments and the number of participants who have received the money.

Evaluation by DSWD Personnel

DSWD Central Office personnel will also visit the field office at least once during the course of the project or activity to provide technical assistance. Evaluation of the program will only be conducted after the activity or project has been completed.

The evaluation report, which includes the list of the beneficiaries and the project’s progress, must be submitted to the LGU and the Central Office. The objective of the evaluation is to establish if the program is effective and efficient.

One of the main factors that will be considered when it comes to assessing the effectiveness of the program is the selection and participation of the beneficiaries.

Aside from the cost and operation of the project, another aspect of the evaluation will be the timeliness of the payments made to the beneficiaries.

The evaluation will also look into the effects of the cash-for-work program on the various aspects of the community. For instance, how the project affected the participants and the community’s acceptance of the project. It will also analyze the various activities and coping strategies of the participants.

DSWD Cash for Work Guidelines

Here are the program guidelines for the DSWD cash-for-work as outlined by the agency in this Administrative Order dated 2008.

Sample of Cash for Work Voucher

Here’s a sample of the voucher to be used for the DSWD Cash for Work Project:

Video: DOLE, DSWD won’t dole out cash; offer cash for work

The video explains the Cash for Work program. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) clarified that the government does not give out dole outs but rather provides jobs to people affected by Boracay’s closure.

This is a better strategy than the traditional way of giving money to people. This is because the money will be spent on things other than food and shelter, which will make it difficult for the government to monitor how it is used.

The Cash for work has been proven effective in many countries where it was implemented. Furthermore, the work done by the people in their area will benefit them in the long run. This is what has been the case of the Boracay closure, which gave way to the town’s rehabilitation, which has benefited many people. It is also important to note that this strategy can be implemented in other areas in the Philippines, where poverty and unemployment are rampant.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is cash for work?

The Cash for Work program provides temporary employment to individuals who are experiencing difficulties or are displaced. It involves participating in various activities and projects in their communities. These work areas are identified through the leadership of local leaders.

The Cash for Work program provides cash to help the needy meet their basic needs. It can be conducted before, during, or after a disaster. This program is managed by the local government units’ social welfare and development offices. The DSWD Field Offices are also involved in the implementation of the program.

2. What is environmental preservation?

Various forms of environmental protection are carried out, such as reforestation, coastal clean-up, and tree planting. Small-scale projects that are supported by this program include the construction of water reservoirs, canals, pit drainages, and irrigation canals.

3. What is a work area program?

The local community leaders identify various work programs and work areas that are needed by the people in these communities. In exchange for the services rendered, the recipients are given cash to meet their basic needs.

4. Who signs the master list of beneficiaries?

The list of beneficiaries of the various social welfare programs and projects identified by the DENR is prepared by the LCE or designated alternate officer. These individuals should then be approved by the regional director.

5. Who is responsible for the implementation of the Cash for Work Program?

The local government units’ social welfare and development offices handle the program’s implementation. These offices are in coordination with the DSWD’s field offices.

6. What is the minimum wage under the CFW program?

For the benefit of the CFW program’s beneficiaries, the regional wage rate will now be 100% instead of 75%. In the Western Visayas, the current minimum wage is P323.50 per day.

Summary

The DSWD Cash for Work (CFW) Program is an excellent initiative by the government to provide financial assistance for marginalized and vulnerable communities. It also provides them with job opportunities to help them sustain their livelihood. Every Filipino who is in dire need of money should consider applying to one of the DSWD’s Cash for Work Program sites located in their respective localities.

With calamities happening in the country and with more and more Filipinos becoming impoverished every year, there is no doubt that the Cash for Work program will continue to help many people who need money.

We hope you’ve found this article useful. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the DSWD’s Cash for Work program, feel free to visit your local Social Welfare and Development Office or coordinate with the DSWD via their official website.