Nearly 5 million Filipinos receive aid through Akap program, DSWD reports
inquirer.net — January 2, 2025, 09:01 AM UTC
The Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (Akap) has assisted nearly five million near-poor Filipinos since its launch in May 2024. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported that 99.31% of the allocated P26.7 billion has been utilized. Akap provides one-time aid of P5,000 to individuals earning P23,000 or less, who are not receiving other government assistance. Despite concerns about potential political misuse, DSWD officials stated that aid distribution is managed by social workers, not politicians. The program was introduced in December 2023 and has faced scrutiny regarding its funding and implementation. The 2025 national budget includes P26 billion for Akap, which will be subject to guidelines before implementation.