DSWD: 2016 polls will not affect 4Ps’ program

EDITORIAL

The Department of Social Welfare and Development said politics will not affect implementation of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

In the Cordillera, DSWD regional director Janet Armas, disclosed the DSWD had looked into the issue to ensure 2016 local and national elections will not affect 4Ps implementation.

She said no politician had a hand in selection of 4Ps beneficiaries and this was clarified among local government units and beneficiaries.

In ensuring that politics will not affect the 4Ps household beneficiaries, she said the DSWD is strengthening its  Bawal ang epal” campaign and family development sessions. She said information offices and media will also play an important role in such advocacy campaign.

Meantime, DSWD Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman had released a statement of advice to 4Ps beneficiaries that they are free to decide, choose and express their beliefs and rights on issues concerning their lives and their communities, since the program can be taken advantage of by politicians in the upcoming political exercise.

“Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries are empowered individuals and have the right as other voters in this country to choose someone whom they believe epitomizes their principles,” Soliman said.

“During family development sessions, we tell them about active citizenship and voting according to their conscience. But we never impose on them to vote for a certain political personality,” the Secretary added.

To date, there are 60,831 4Ps beneficiaries in Cordillera region and if some politicians are already trying to gain their favor by saying they were responsible for their being beneficiaries, then we know for sure that elections are just around the corner. But in this Banana Republic where the politician who gives the most amount and wins by sheer intimidation wins, it would be no wonder if we will elect a corrupt nincompoop for president.