ILOILO – Will the Commission on Elections (Comelec) exempt the provincial government’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) from its order barring the release of public funds between March 29 to May 12?
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) on Friday asked for an exemption, according to Gov. Arthur Defensor Sr.
But pending Comelec central office’s decision, the poll body’s Resolution Number 10511 imposing the ban on the release of public funds during the cited period stays, said Defensor.
March 29 was the start of the campaign period for those running for local elective posts this May 13 midterm elections.
Resolution Number 10511 covers public officials or employees, barangay officials, government-owned or controlled corporations.
As its name implies, the AICS is an emergency assistance fund of the provincial government.
This year, AICS has a budget of P15 million.
This quarter, P3 million has been allocated for medical, burial, and calamity assistance, said Judy Guadalupe, social welfare officer IV of PSWDO.
Between 50 to 80 individuals seek assistance from the PSWDO every day, she added.
“We will wait for the national Comelec to approve our request for exemption,” said Defensor./PN
