DSWD Aims to Transition Cash Aid Distribution to E-Wallets Following Tragic Incident in Quezon City
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is actively pursuing a shift to e-wallets for distributing cash assistance, a move prompted by the recent death of a motorcycle taxi rider during a payout queue in Quezon City. According to DSWD Spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, the agency is currently conducting consultations to adopt digital systems, recognizing e-wallets as a significant aid, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Enhancing Safety and Efficiency in Aid Distribution
Beyond preventing casualties in aid distribution, this initiative seeks to reduce operational and administrative costs. Dumlao emphasized that the adoption of e-wallets could streamline processes and minimize risks associated with large crowds. Meanwhile, she clarified that there is no official information yet on the cause of the rider's death, as the family awaits the release of the death certificate.
Addressing Crowd Management Challenges
Dumlao noted that the DSWD did not anticipate the high number of beneficiaries who flocked to the payout site in Quezon City, where crowd control measures should have been implemented. Despite this incident, the DSWD will continue distributing financial assistance and will announce additional schedules for those who have not yet received cash aid.
