AKAP, AICS exempted from poll ban - Comelec

'But pols should keep out of ayuda distribution'

- MAYEN JAYMALIN

The distribution of the controversial Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) will proceed despite the spending ban to be implemented in connection with the May midterm polls.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) yesterday granted the request of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to exempt AKAP and its other aid projects and programs from the election ban.

Aside from AKAP, the programs exempted from the election ban are the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Walang Gutom Program (WGP) and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS).

Comelec Chairman George Garcia, however, clarified that distribution of AICS will be suspended from May 2 to 12, except those which are normally given to qualified individuals such as but not limited to basic needs in the form of food, medical, education, burial and similar assistance.

Garcia said the Comelec approved the recommendation of its law department to grant the DSWD’s request for exemption.

In granting the exemption, the Comelec stressed that the implementation of the DSWD projects must not influence the conduct of the forthcoming elections.

“(There must be) strict compliance that (there are) no candidates or politicians during the distribution of ayuda,” Garcia said.

He said the DSWD must submit a periodic written report of the disbursements made regarding the exempted projects.

The Comelec required the DSWD to provide the poll body with the guidelines on the exempted programs’ implementation.