The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has alloted almost P20 billion to the Department of Social Welfare and Developmet (DSWD) protective services for indigents in the proposed 2024 national budget.

In a statement sent to the ARKIPELAGO NEWS, DBM Sec. Amenah Pangandaman said that a total of P19.97 billion has been earmarked for the Protective Services for Individuals and Families in Difficult Circumstances (PSIFDC) program, an initiative of DSWD under the proposed 2024 national budget.

The funding aims to provide crucial financial assistance to an estimated 3.9 million beneficiaries across the country.

“We are strengthening social protection measures to ensure that no one will be left behind, especially the marginalized and vulnerable sectors. This is the mandate of our President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., and we will make sure to exert all necessary efforts to make this attainable,” Pangandaman pointed out.

President BBM, in his Budget Message, acknowledged the continuing impact of the pandemic on the nation.

“The harsh effects of the pandemic are still heavily felt by many, especially the most vulnerable. To address this, I have approved the National Economic Development Authority’s recommendation for the Social Protection Floor framework which aims to institutionalize the existing social protection programs,” the President said.

An important element of the PSIFDC program is DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation initiative which aims to provide a comprehensive range of services, inclusive of cash assistance for food, transportation, medical services, funeral costs, and other essential needs of those who are disadvantaged, marginalized, or vulnerable.

Photo: Amenah F. Pangandaman FB