DSWD: Politicians can’t remove beneficiaries from programs

All politicians, particularly those running in the May 9 elections, have no hand in the removal of beneficiaries from programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

This was stressed by DSWD-6 regional director Ma. Evelyn B. Macapobre amid reports that some political candidates are using the agency’s programs to advance their political campaign.

“Only DSWD has the authority to remove you from the list of our beneficiaries. No politician can delist you from our programs,” she said in a statement.

According to Macapobre, a beneficiary cannot be delisted without any “valid reason.”

For Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries, they can only be delisted for non-compliance to the program conditions such as ensuring that their children are enrolled and have 85 percent school attendance; regularly undertaking health check-ups and deworming; and parents are attending monthly Family Development Session (FDS).

Another reason for delisting is pawning of cash cards despite repeated warnings and counseling.

For Social Pension beneficiaries, they can only be delisted if they do not meet the following criteria: 60 years old and above, frail, sickly, or with disability, no pension from GSIS, SSS, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), Armed Forces and Police Mutual Benefit Association, Inc. (AFPMBAI) or any other insurance company; no permanent source of income; and no regular support from family or relatives for his or her basic needs.