Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian denied allegations that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) rejected financial assistance referrals from the Office of the Vice President (OVP).
During a Senate hearing on the proposed 2025 DSWD budget, Gatchalian emphasized that all requests for aid are fulfilled, stating, “We do not reject any request for financial assistance.”
His comments came in response to concerns raised by Sen. Imee Marcos about Vice President Sara Duterte’s complaints regarding aid distribution.
Gatchalian also mentioned that the DSWD has a message exchange with the OVP indicating that referrals were accommodated.
Additionally, he clarified discrepancies regarding the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program’s budget, attributing a reported cash grant deficit to misinterpretation of budgetary provisions.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 15, 2024
