Millions of Filipino households receive UPLIFT aid as government expands support during energy emergency

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 14, 2026

PHOTO COURTESY: DSWD

PHILIPPINES – More than 5.78 million poor, near-poor and low-income households across the Philippines have received financial assistance under the Marcos administration’s UPLIFT program, as the government continues efforts to cushion families from the impact of the energy emergency.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development said Monday that distribution is nearing completion, particularly for Group 1 beneficiaries who qualify for a one-time payout and have active bank or digital accounts.

Of the beneficiaries served so far, more than 3.2 million households under Group 1 have received assistance. The group includes families enrolled in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program and the Walang Gutom Program.

Another 1.75 million poor and near-poor households identified through the Philippine Statistics Authority’s Community-Based Monitoring System have received assistance under Group 2.

Meanwhile, more than 811,000 low-income Social Security System members under Group 3 have received their cash aid through registered disbursement accounts.

DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the agency continues to coordinate with local governments and partner agencies, including the SSS, to reach beneficiaries who have yet to receive their assistance.

Field validation is also underway, particularly for remaining Group 2 and 3 beneficiaries. Some recipients may have moved to new addresses, experienced changes in their economic circumstances or have dormant bank accounts.

With millions of households already receiving aid, the government’s challenge now goes beyond distribution. It is making sure that the remaining families who qualify for help are not left behind as the country navigates the continuing energy emergency.