Politicians cannot delist DSWD beneficiaries

By Jennifer P. Rendon

For the nth time, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 6 reminded its beneficiaries that no politician can delist or remove them from the agency’s programs.

“Only DSWD has the authority to remove you from the list of our beneficiaries. No politician can delist you from our programs,” DSWD-6 regional director Ma. Evelyn B. Macapobre said.

Even in the past election campaign period, the DSWD-6 has been receiving reports that some politicians are threatening beneficiaries that they would be delisted once they would not support these aspirants.

A beneficiary can only be removed from the program for valid reasons. And declining to support a politician’s candidacy is not one of the criteria.

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

Some 4Ps beneficiaries were stripped of the program for pawning of cash cards despite repeated warnings and counseling.

For Social Pension, beneficiaries can only be delisted if they do not meet the following criteria:

-beneficiary is 60 years old and above, frail, sickly, or with disability;

-has 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.

Macapobre assured that all program beneficiaries will remain for as long as they are eligible and, for 4Ps beneficiaries, are compliant to conditions.

“DSWD remains apolitical and we will continue with our service delivery to the people with whom we owe allegiance to.”