The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) affirmed that it will continue to deliver its programs and services to address the needs of poor, vulnerable, and marginalized Filipinos amid the election period.

This after the Commission on Election (COMELEC) granted the Department’s petition for the exemption of its routine and normal expenses from the prohibition against release, disbursement or expenditure of public funds as stated under COMELEC Resolution No. 10747.

The DSWD welcomes the exemption as it will guarantee that the implementation of the regular programs of the Department will not be hampered.

The COMELEC approved the exception request without striking out any item. Among the major programs covered by the Resolution are the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, Sustainable

Livelihood Program, Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services, Inclusive and Sustainable Peace (Programs for the Insurgents/Rebels) and Protective Services. The procurement for Information Technology equipment, support to operations, and other administrative services are also exempted from the prohibition on public spending.

During the en banc session, the DSWD assured the Commission that mechanisms are in place to ensure that its programs and services will not be used for political partisan activities.