DSWD to file charges vs barangay official who allegedly stole 'ayuda' from pregnant woman

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will file charges against a barangay official in Davao who for allegedly stole a portion of a pregnant woman’s cash assistance.

In a viral video, the beneficiary tearfully shared how she received P10,000 from the DSWD Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS)  but was left with only P1,500 after the barangay official allegedly took P8,500 to supposedly give to other recipients.

"Ongoing na pina-file ‘yung affidavit of complaint,” DSWD Spokesperson Irene Dumlao told Marisol Abdurahman 24 Oras report Tuesday.

(The filing of the complaint is ongoing.)

“Dahil nga nakikita natin na may grave abuse of authority yung barangay official dahil kinuha yung natanggap mula sa DSWD. Tinitingnan din natin ang graft and corruption. Maaari ring mag-fall sa robbery kung yan ay may coercion,” Dumlao added.

(We‘re seeing a possible grave abuse of authority, graft and corruption from the barangay official since he took the cash from the DSWD. If there’s coercion, this might also fall under robbery.)

The DSWD said it is determined to file charges against the  unnamed barangay official as it urged the public to report similar incidents.

GMA Integrated News reached out to the barangay official who has yet to respond.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Monday warned local barangay officials not to take advantage of the cash assistance provided by the national government to beneficiaries.—Sundy Locus/RF, GMA Integrated News