MANILA(December 5) — Senator Panfilo Lacson wants to put an end to a familiar scene in many communities: politicians showing up at government cash aid payouts, photo ops in tow, and banners bearing their names plastered across the venue.
Calling the practice “inhumane” and “exploitative,” Lacson is pushing for a 2026 budget provision that would ban officials, candidates, and their representatives from appearing at or influencing the distribution of Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) funds. Even displaying political signage or branding during payouts would be prohibited.
Under his proposal, social welfare workers who allow politicians to meddle in aid activities could face administrative sanctions.
For Lacson, the numbers tell the story community members already know too well: AICS budgets balloon during election years, only to shrink after. From ₱23.5 billion in 2021, the fund surged to ₱39.7 billion in 2022 — an election year — dropped afterward, then shot up again to ₱44.4 billion for 2025’s midterm polls.
“It’s clear many of these programs aren’t just about helping people in crisis. They’re being used to make voters feel indebted,” Lacson said during Senate deliberations. “There must be no room for political exploitation, especially when those in line for assistance are already suffering.”
For communities who rely on AICS as a lifeline during medical emergencies, funerals, or sudden hardships, Lacson’s proposal aims to protect the dignity of beneficiaries — and finally separate social aid from political theater.
