NO ROOM FOR ‘EPAL’: DSWD-6 Tells Candidates to Stay Away From Aid Distributions

By Mariela Angella Oladive

As the May 2025 midterm elections near, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 6 has urged political candidates to stay away from aid distribution activities.

In a press conference held Thursday, April 10, DSWD-6 Regional Director Arwin Razo emphasized that candidates running for public office should avoid appearing at distribution sites.

“Better [for them] not to appear… so we will not be colored by politics. If anyone insists, we will just schedule it at another time,” Razo said.

He added that any reported incidents involving political presence during distributions would prompt an internal investigation.

Razo explained that candidates should avoid creating the impression of having control over DSWD programs, as it may lead to beneficiaries feeling indebted to political figures.

The appeal forms part of the agency’s Anti-EPAL Campaign, which seeks to protect DSWD initiatives from political influence.

The campaign promotes impartiality by ensuring that government programs are delivered without association to any political group.

Razo reiterated that the agency remains non-partisan and is committed to following proper procedures during aid distributions.

He clarified that beneficiaries are selected strictly based on program guidelines and are assessed by social workers before receiving any assistance.

“The beneficiaries are chosen based on the eligibility criteria set by the program and undergo assessment by social workers before receiving assistance,” Razo said.

DSWD-6 will continue its aid distribution activities only until April 30, with the exception of medical and burial assistance, which will be available through Election Day on May 12.

Razo assured the public that all transactions are properly documented to ensure transparency and accountability.

He also addressed the use of campaign materials, saying that DSWD tarpaulins must follow agency guidelines and avoid any political branding.

“These tarpaulins should only contain necessary information, without political connotations,” he said.

Razo firmly stated that no candidate or political figure has the authority to interfere with the beneficiary list of any DSWD program.

“We are very firm that only DSWD has the right and mandate to identify and provide assistance. No one can claim to remove a name from the list,” he said.

The agency urged the public to report any irregularities, including political interference in the selection of beneficiaries.