While the funds would not end up in flood control, it will go to dole-outs instead.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday, September 26 announced that his administration has realigned ₱36 billion originally earmarked for flood control projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and redirected the funds to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for social welfare programs.
Speaking before beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Malacañang, Marcos said the funds were “secured” from DPWH allocations and will now support programs such as the 4Ps, Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), the Sustainable Livelihood Program, and Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA).
“Itong halaga na ito ay ilalaan natin sa mga programa sa DSWD,” Marcos said.
The President explained that the funds will serve as an investment in Filipino families, saying: “Kayo po ang dahilan at nagbibigay sa amin ng inspirasyon at lakas ng loob na gawin ang aming trabaho ng mabuti at matapat para matulungan ang aming minamahal na kababayan.”
Marcos also said that his administration is studying amendments to Republic Act 11310 or the 4Ps Act to make it “more responsive” to the evolving needs of low-income families.
“Sinisiguro po nating bawat hakbang ay nakabatay sa masusing pagsusuri upang manatiling matibay at epektibo ang 4Ps sa lahat ng mga nangangailangan nito,” he said.
