MANILA — Malacañang on Monday refuted Senator Alan Peter Cayetano’s assertion that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stopped the release of a proposed ₱10,000 cash assistance program that was intended to help vulnerable Filipinos recover from the economic hardships brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement, Palace officials rejected the senator’s allegation, maintaining that the Marcos administration has consistently prioritized social protection measures while ensuring that government spending remains within the bounds of existing laws and available resources.
Cayetano earlier claimed that the proposed financial assistance, which sought to provide ₱10,000 to qualified beneficiaries affected by the pandemic, did not push through because it was allegedly blocked by the President.
Responding to the accusation, Malacañang said the administration’s decisions on financial aid programs are based on careful policy review, budgetary considerations, and the government’s overall economic agenda, rather than political motivations.
The Palace also emphasized that the government continues to implement various assistance programs through concerned agencies to support low-income families, displaced workers, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable sectors.
The issue resurfaced amid renewed discussions on government assistance programs as lawmakers continue to debate measures aimed at easing the financial burden on Filipinos still dealing with the long-term effects of the pandemic and higher living costs.
Malacañang reiterated that the Marcos administration remains committed to extending aid to those in need through targeted and sustainable programs while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
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