Senator Erwin Tulfo expressed disappointment on Wednesday, June 17, after the proposed Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) Act failed to advance for ratification during the special session of Congress due to the lack of signatures from members of the House of Representatives.
Speaking on the Senate floor, Tulfo said the measure was expected to be ratified but was delayed because some lawmakers in the lower chamber reportedly objected to certain provisions contained in the bill, particularly the anti-epal provision that prohibits politicians from personally distributing government aid.
“Ito po yata ang hindi po natutuwa ang ating mga kasamahan sa mababang kapulungan. Kaya ayaw po nilang pirmahan at kailangan pa daw ang pag-aralan,” Tulfo said.
The senator emphasized that AICS funds come from the government through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and should not be used by politicians for publicity or political advantage.
“Hindi po nila itong personal na pera. Kaya doon po sa ilang mambabatas sa mababang kapulungan, sana po mapag-isipan ninyo na hindi po ninyo pera 'yan, pera po ng taong bayan,” Tulfo said.
He also warned that the bill could remain stalled if no action is taken, depriving Filipinos in need of a measure intended to institutionalize assistance programs for those facing emergencies and financial hardships.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, meanwhile, noted that the anti-epal provision is not a new concept. He pointed out that a similar provision had already been included in the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) through a proposal by Senator Panfilo Lacson.
“Actually po, yung anti-epal provision, hindi ho bago 'yan. Dito po sa 2026 GAA mayroon na ho tayong special provision,” Gatchalian said. “Ang pinapropose ninyo ay ini-institutionalize lamang itong anti-epal provision.”
Tulfo maintained that some lawmakers oppose making the restriction a permanent law because it would prevent politicians from directly handing out government aid, especially during election periods.
“Mahiya naman po kayo dahil hindi n’yo po pera 'yan, pera po ng taong bayan,” Tulfo said, urging legislators to prioritize the welfare of beneficiaries over political interests.
The AICS bill seeks to institutionalize the government's crisis assistance program while ensuring that aid distribution remains free from political influence and personal credit-taking by elected officials.
