The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has announced a major shift in its social aid strategy, confirming that its flagship crisis assistance program will now serve millions of Filipinos previously covered by a separate, now-defunded initiative.
AICS Steps In as AKAP Sunsets
On Sunday, January 18, 2026, the DSWD stated that the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program will accommodate the clients of the terminated Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP). This transition is backed by a substantial budget allocation of PHP63.8 billion for the year 2026.
Director Edwin Morata of the DSWD's Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) provided assurance in a Facebook post and a subsequent radio interview. He confirmed that sufficient AICS funds are available to serve the former AKAP clients, which includes the provision of guarantee letters for qualified individuals.
"These 3.9 million [people] will be part of the AICS this year," Morata said during an interview on DZMM's "Serbisyong DSWD for Every Juan." He emphasized that these beneficiaries are all experiencing genuine crises, such as needing medicines or hospitalization. "So if they are removed, they might say there will be nowhere else to go. But rest assured, AICS is still there," he added.
From Cash Aid to Guaranteed Support
The AKAP program was implemented as a two-year project starting in 2024 and assisted 3.9 million Filipinos in 2025 alone, disbursing PHP24 billion nationwide. It targeted low-income earners with aid for medical, burial, transportation, and food expenses.
However, the DSWD identified a key challenge with direct cash assistance. Morata explained that sometimes, when people are given money, it may not be used for its intended crisis purpose due to other pressing bills or needs.
To address this, the AICS program is now emphasizing the use of Guarantee Letters (GLs). This system ensures that the financial assistance is spent strictly for its approved purpose, such as paying a hospital bill directly or securing specific medicines.
The maximum amount covered by a standard GL is PHP150,000, though social workers can assess grave cases for higher amounts based on need. The program is available to individuals in crisis regardless of their income level.
Streamlined Process and Expanded Partnerships
The DSWD has streamlined the application process. Qualified applicants must have a triggering circumstance like hospitalization and coordinate with the CIP office for assessment. Notably, patients are not required to appear in person; relatives may submit necessary documents on their behalf.
To make the GL system more effective, the DSWD has significantly expanded its network of partner institutions. This now includes:
- Private hospitals and therapy centers
- Implant providers and pharmacies with specialized drugs
- Supermarkets and transportation companies
Morata also gave a firm assurance regarding the integrity of the process, stating that DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian has directed the strict enforcement of non-partisanship, particularly during off-site cash payouts, to insulate the program from political influence.
The integration of former AKAP clients into AICS was illustrated recently. On March 15, 2025, fire-affected families in Pilar, Sorsogon received government assistance through the AICS program, demonstrating its ongoing role in community crisis response.
