‘AYUDA’ SUPPORTS POOR — LAWMAKER
ONLY the “noisy minority” refuses to acknowledge the the overwhelming public support for the ayduda program of the government.
Deputy Speaker Quezon Rep. David “Jayjay” Suarez defended the government’s aid thrust and called for a stop to bashing and questioning of the programs to support Filipinos in need.
“Tama na ang paninira. Makinig kayo sa sambayanang Pilipino.”
Citing separate surveys from Social Weather Stations (SWS) and Pulse Asia, Suarez pointed out that 80 to 90 percent of Filipinos recognize the benefits of social welfare programs such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) and the Walang Gutom Program.
“The numbers are clear – the vast majority of Filipinos believe that these ayuda programs work. Those who continue to criticize them represent only a small, disconnected group that refuses to acknowledge their importance,” Suarez said in a statement.
He stressed that the House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, remains steadfast in ensuring the continuity of these programs despite opposition from certain sectors.
“The inclusion of AKAP in the national budget was a deliberate decision because it provides real relief to struggling families. We stood our ground against attempts to remove it because we know how much it helps our people,” Suarez added.
He also addressed claims that social welfare programs encourage dependence on government aid, calling such criticisms “uninformed and unfair.”
“These programs are not mere handouts. They are investments in our people, ensuring that government resources under the Marcos administration reach those who need them the most. The goal is not just assistance, but empowerment,” he explained.
House Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe of Zamboanga City echoed Suarez’s sentiments, underscoring that ayuda programs are part of a broader strategy for inclusive economic growth.
“This is how we ensure that economic progress benefits everyone, not just a privileged few. Public funds must be used to uplift those in need, providing financial relief, employment, and food security,” Dalipe said.
Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga emphasized that few government initiatives in recent years have received such widespread public approval.
“Kung halos lahat ng Pilipino ay sang-ayon sa mga ayudang ito, bakit naman tayo magpapadala sa paninira at pag-iingay lamang ng iilan? Bakit sila na minority ang magdidikta ng public policy kung sa mayorya ng mamamayan ay beneficial itong mga ayudang ito?” Gonzales said.
