BY: ANGELICA ARQUERO
Senatorial candidate and former senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has raised concerns over the implementation and guidelines of the government’s Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) during his visit to Baguio City on April 1.
Speaking before local candidates and experts, Lacson questioned the program’s lack of legal basis and eligibility criteria.
“There is no law covering this, so what are they basing it on when selecting beneficiaries? Unlike the 4Ps, which has a time-bound system covering child nutrition, education, and family livelihood,” Lacson explained.
He also argued that the AKAP budget should instead be allocated to enhancing the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) to ensure more structured and long-term assistance.
“It would be better to consolidate all aid programs under one system, like TUPAD under the labor sector, and integrate them into the 4Ps,” he added.
Despite allegations of anomalies in the AKAP program, Malacañang dismissed calls to halt its implementation.
“It’s difficult to stop financial aid programs because people rely on them. Surveys even show that hunger rates are rising despite various assistance programs,” said Palace Press Officer Usec. Claire Castro.
The government has released new AKAP guidelines, including publishing the names of beneficiaries on agency websites and limiting aid to those earning below the minimum wage.
