AFP, PNP, not LGUs, to distribute 2nd tranche of social amelioration aid

The distribution of the second tranche of the government’s cash subsidy program will be facilitated by soldiers and police officers instead of local government officials, Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista said Tuesday.

Bautista said the distribution was handed over to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) upon the orders of President Rodrigo Duterte.

“Meron na kaming initial coordination sa liderato ng AFP at saka PNP para makatulong sila sa pagbibigay ng ayuda, lalong lalo na sa mga geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas,” he said in a televised briefing in Malacañang.

Bautista added that the distribution of the second tranche would also make use of digital payment methods to avoid physical contact between the beneficiaries and authorities.

“Ine-expect natin na since merong mga remittance centers, may mga bangko, sa mga highy urbanized cities ay mapadali nating maibibgay ‘yung ayuda sa mga benepisyaryo,” he explained.

The Palace earlier offered a P30,000 reward for information on local authorities who were using financial assistance program funds for corruption activities following reports of erring barangay officials.  — DVM, GMA News