By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian reaffirmed on Wednesday (October 16, 2024) that the agency does not politicize the distribution of aid.

“Walang pinupulitika sa DSWD, mga social workers natin ang sumusuri kung tutulungan o hindi, kung kailangan o hindi kailangan,” Gatchalian said in a radio interview.

“‘Yung lente ng social worker ang ginagamit natin sa pagsuri kung ano ang tulong na ibibigay, [kung] gaano kalaki,” he added.

This statement follows the Office of the Vice President’s claim that their aid referral was allegedly denied by the DSWD.

Gatchalian also emphasized that social workers determine the amount of aid given to individuals.

“Wala tayong pinipili, may referral man o walang referral,” he said.

He assured the public that the agency is open to assisting all Filipinos in need.

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