DSWD asks Senate to restore AICS budget to ₱63.9 billion

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 21, 2026

Photo Courtesy: George Calvelo

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has appealed to the Senate to restore the proposed 2027 budget for its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program to ₱63.9 billion, warning that reduced funding could limit the government’s ability to help Filipinos facing emergencies.

The request comes as senators review the proposed national budget, including allocations for social protection and financial assistance to vulnerable individuals and families.

AICS provides aid to people experiencing financial hardship because of medical emergencies, hospitalization, funeral expenses, transportation needs and other crisis situations. Assistance is assessed based on applicants’ circumstances and the program’s guidelines.

The DSWD has maintained that sufficient funding is necessary to accommodate the continuing demand for assistance from low-income households and individuals who have nowhere else to turn during emergencies.

Restoring the allocation to ₱63.9 billion would allow the agency to sustain its response to urgent requests for help, particularly from patients needing medical support and families struggling to meet essential expenses.

The appeal also places the program’s funding under scrutiny as lawmakers seek to balance social welfare needs with the government’s overall spending priorities.

As deliberations continue, the Senate will have to determine whether to retain the proposed allocation or adjust it in response to the department’s request and other budgetary considerations.

The final amount will be settled through the national budget process, with the government expected to weigh the demand for crisis assistance against available public resources and safeguards for the proper use of funds.