By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In response to widespread public support for the Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), the House has earmarked P39.8 billion for cash assistance in 2025, targeting individuals earning P21,000 or less per month.
This allocation is three times larger than the P13 billion provided in 2024.
Ako Bicol Party-list Representative and Appropriations Committee Chairman Zaldy Co explained that AKAP is designed to support the “near poor” or “lower middle class,” including minimum wage earners who are vulnerable to economic shocks such as the sudden loss of a household head, illness, unemployment, or runaway inflation, which could easily push them into poverty.
“The additional funding is crucial to support those in need. We’re providing assistance to struggling families, especially during these challenging times,” Co stated.
He further explained that this funding, part of the P6.352 trillion 2025 national budget, aims to address the needs of vulnerable sectors, including financially-challenged students, farmers, fisherfolk, soldiers, indigent families, and those who are just above the poverty threshold.
This new allocation is in addition to the P591.8 billion already set aside by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for cash assistance to impoverished families.
ia/mnm
