Despite the implementation of energy-saving work arrangements in government offices, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has assured the public that its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program remains open to serve clients on weekdays.

In a news release Friday, Director Edwin Morata of the DSWD’s Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) said the AICS program is open to everybody as long as they are in a current crisis and need augmentation.

“Bukas kami (We are open) from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to serve po yung inyong mga pangangailangan (your needs),” he said.

Morata said the AICS can be accessed by anyone, regardless of gender, sector, or financial status – whether poor or middle class.

“Ang titingnan na po namin dyan ay ano ang current sitwasyon mo, ano ang kakayanan mo, at saan kami pwedeng pumasok para tumulong (What we will consider is your current situation, your capacity, and what kind of intervention you need),” he said.

He added licensed social workers strictly adhere to the guidelines and regulations of the AICS program to ensure that clients receive “appropriate assistance based on assessment.”

He also clarified that drivers who availed of the cash relief assistance (CRA) can also avail of AICS, as long as they are experiencing an unexpected crisis.

The AICS serves as a social safety net or a stop-gap mechanism to support the recovery of individuals and families from unexpected crises such as illness or death of a family member, natural and man-made disasters and other crisis situations.

AICS clients may avail of medical, hospitalization, transportation, and burial assistance, among others. (PNA)