Senator Imee Marcos on Thursday raised the idea of combining the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) and Ayuda Para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for a more effective aid distribution to Filipinos in need.

AKAP is a program dedicated to providing various types of financial assistance for individuals with low income, and not more than the set minimum wages, that are most affected by inflation, as well as those who are not included in the regular program for the poor.

In AICS, beneficiaries are not limited to the type of state they live in. It is open to all individuals dealing with a crisis and in need of temporary and immediate financial assistance.

In a news release, Marcos said instead of dividing the budget among many programs, it would be better to focus on programs that have long-term impacts.

She also emphasized giving dignity to Filipinos through programs that will make them feel that they are productive members of society.

The presidential sister also said social assistance programs must be accompanied by opportunities for self-sufficiency.

“Palakasin natin ang mga programang tulad ng Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Kalahi-CIDSS (Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services), at Sustainable Livelihood Program, na tumutugon na sa isyu ng kahirapan bago pa man ang AKAP (Let’s strengthen programs like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Kalahi-CIDSS, and the Sustainable Livelihood Program, which have been addressing the issue of poverty even before AKAP),” Marcos said.

“Kailangang palawakin natin ang kanilang mga pagkakataong makahanap ng trabaho o mamuhunan sa sariling hanapbuhay. Hindi naman tamad ang Pilipino – kailangan lang nila ng tulong at inspirasyon para makabangon. Hindi lamang ayuda ang sagot, kundi tunay na pag-asa para makaahon sa kahirapan (We need to expand their chances to find a job or invest in their own business. Filipinos are not lazy – they just need support and inspiration to get back on their feet. The solution is not just aid, but real hope to rise from poverty)” she added.

The 4Ps provides conditional cash transfers to poor households for up to seven years, focusing on health, nutrition, and education.

On the other hand, Kalahi-CIDSS uses a community-driven development approach, and focuses in service delivery, poverty reduction, and good governance.

Meanwhile, the Sustainable Livelihood Program empowers marginalized households and communities by providing capacity-building initiatives and support to enhance their socio-economic conditions and engage in sustainable livelihoods.

Senator Marcos also urged fellow legislators to unite in the cause of intensifying the campaign against poverty and hunger. (PNA)