The House of Representatives has approved an additional P292.2 billion for social services and food security in the P6.352-trillion 2025 national budget.
This funding aims to support vulnerable sectors, including impoverished families, farmers, fisherfolk, and students.
Key allocations include P39.8 billion for cash assistance under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations program and P30 billion for scholarships for underprivileged students.
Additionally, P44 billion has been allocated to the National Irrigation Administration to enhance food security through irrigation projects.
Meanwhile, a dispute has emerged between the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and DSWD over alleged delays in processing aid applications referred by the OVP.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 16, 2024
