June 15, 2024 - Two barangay officials in Davao City are facing criminal and administrative charges after deducting a significant portion of a pregnant woman's cash assistance.
Pregnant Woman Denied Full Cash Aid
Mrs. Anne Villarin, a resident of Barangay Sinawilan, Matanao, Davao del Sur, received P10,000 in financial aid under the Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fishermen, and their Families (PAFFF) program on June 6th. However, the barangay officials allegedly took P8,500, leaving her with only P1,500.
Villarin took to social media to expose the incident, and the video went viral. This prompted the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to take action.
DSWD Assists Beneficiary, Files Charges
The DSWD's Field Office-11 (Davao Region) assisted Villarin in filing charges against the barangay chief and a councilor. They admitted in a video interview with Brigada News FM Davao that they deducted the money.
Based on Secretary Rex Gatchalian's directive, a joint complaint affidavit was filed by Villarin and DSWD FO-11 Regional Director Atty. Vanessa Goc-ong. The formal complaint, along with witness affidavits and authentication documents, was submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman in Davao Region.
The DSWD has also provided Villarin with the missing P8,500 as she refused to accept the money returned by the barangay officials after the incident gained public attention.
DSWD Reiterates Policy on Cash Aid
Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, the DSWD spokesperson, emphasized that DSWD cash assistance is intended solely for the beneficiaries.
"Nobody, not even government officials, should take a cut of these cash aids," Dumlao said. The DSWD assures the public that they will hold the erring officials accountable and ensure Villarin receives continued support throughout her pregnancy.
This incident highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the distribution of government aid. The DSWD's swift action sends a strong message that such practices will not be tolerated.