DSWD Simplifies Requirements for P26 Billion Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP)

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has streamlined the application process for its P26 billion AKAP program, designed to provide financial aid to low-income and minimum wage earners affected by inflation. The changes simplify the required documentation.

Simplified Requirements:

For formal economy workers, applicants can submit any of the following documents issued within the last three months:

– Duly signed Contract of Employment- Certificate of Employment with Compensation (COE)

– Income Tax Return (ITR) or BIR Form 2316- Duly signed Audited Financial Statement

– Certificate of Tax Exemption

For those in the informal economy, acceptable documents include:

– Certification from a direct employer- Certification from relevant government offices- Association certification

– Business permit or barangay certification (for small business owners)

– Social Case Summary/Study from the LSWDO or a registered social worker

– Certificate of attestation

– Notarized affidavit of low income

DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao stated that additional documents may be required depending on the specific assistance needed.

The AKAP program has faced criticism for its last-minute inclusion in the 2025 proposed budget and concerns that it could be used for political purposes ahead of the 2025 midterm elections. Senator Koko Pimentel noted its similarity to the existing AICS program. Senator Imee Marcos, who recommended its deletion, pointed out that it wasn’t part of President Marcos Jr.’s original budget proposal. The DSWD denies accusations of pork barrel spending.

Beneficiaries can receive P2,000 to P10,000, depending on their needs, with a three-month holdout period. Assistance includes medical, funeral, food, and cash relief, distributed through DSWD offices and in partnership with LGUs. Rice assistance, where funds can be used to buy rice, is also available via LGUs with a required Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the LGU and DSWD. Recipients of rice assistance can still qualify for other types of aid.