Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Erwin Tulfo assured on Saturday that the distribution of educational assistance will reach every student in need regardless of social status.

This statement comes after a large crowd of parents, guardians, and students lined up at DSWD’s central office in Quezon City as early as Friday.

“Kapag sa Barangay po, ang reklamo po ng tao namimili [ng pinagbibigyan ng payout], inuuna ang kaanak at kaibigan. Dito po sa amin, first come first serve. Wala po kaming titignan atska kahit ano pa ang kulay mo. Medyo mahaba nga lang po ang pila, kaya nga po tayo ay humihingi kami ng paumanhin sa mga kababayan ho natin,” he said in an interview with DZRH’s Adbokasiya.

Tulfo said those who will not be able to receive assistance on the first day of distribution could come next Saturday.

The distribution of cash aid will go on for six Saturdays, starting today Aug. 20 to September 24.

Tulfo also assured the public that there is a sufficient budget allotted for the program.

“May pondo naman po at sigurado naman na hindi naman po ibubulsa namin kaya huwag po silang kabahan. Naglaan po tayo ng kalahating billion para dito sa educational assistance ng mga bata,” he explained.

The DSWD regional and provincial offices are also releasing educational assistance for beneficiaries, Tulfo said.

Last Friday, Tulfo announced that the educational aid under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program will provide Php 1,000 for elementary students, Php 2,000 for high school students, Php 3,000 for senior high school, and Php 4,000 for vocational/college students.

The aid can be used for students’ needs such as school fees, school supplies, allowance, and other fees.

DSWD instructed eligible beneficiaries to walk in at its main office or register online through email to get cash assistance. They are required to present an enrollment certificate and school ID.