Argao mayor cries foul over presence of politicians in aid payout

Local

THE mayor of Argao, Cebu is calling on the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Central Visayas (DSWD-7) to strictly enforce the Commission on Elections (Comelec) guidelines after reports surfaced that political figures were present during the recent payout of social assistance programs in one of the barangays in the town.

In a letter dated April 3, Mayor Allan Sesaldo expressed concerns over the conduct of the April 2 distribution of the Ayuda para sa Kapos Ang Kita Program (AKAP) and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program in Barangay Usmad.

According to the mayor, the incumbent Congressman and his political allies not only attended the event but also used the opportunity to deliver campaign speeches, violating the Comelec’s directive to keep politics out of government assistance programs.

The letter addressed to DSWD-7 Director Shalaine Lucero said “the incumbent Congressman and his political allies were not only present during the payout but were also given the platform to deliver campaign speeches."

"This conduct occurred during the activity, clearly within the bounds of the official payout program, with the same venue and participants, thereby constituting an integral part of the event," he said.

Sesaldo also questioned the arrangements surrounding the payout, pointing out that the list of beneficiaries and details about the event were coordinated through the Office of the Congressman, not the local government unit, raising concerns over undue political influence.

“This arrangement alone already raises questions about undue political influence over what is meant to be an impartial government assistance program,” the mayor added.

In response, DSWD-7 Regional Director Shalaine Lucero assured the mayor that an investigation had already been ordered into the matter.

“We are taking this matter seriously and an investigation is already underway. We will inform you of the results as soon as we have concluded our inquiry,” Lucero said in her reply letter.

On April 7, DSWD 7 issued a public service announcement affirming their commitment to adhere to Comelec’s guidelines, stating, “The distribution of both programs adheres to Memorandum No. 24-09014 issued by the Comelec and remains free from any political influence.”

Sesaldo has warned that if such violations continue during future payouts, he will consider taking legal action against those responsible.

“Should this pattern of impropriety continue in the succeeding payouts, we will be constrained to pursue formal legal action and seek accountability against all responsible DSWD personnel,” he said.

The mayor has also made it clear that he has evidence in the form of videos, photos, and witness accounts that document the unauthorized political activities during the event.

He is prepared to submit these materials to the appropriate authorities if necessary.

The DSWD-7 announcement reassured the public that all future payouts would be closely monitored to ensure compliance with election laws and maintain the integrity of the assistance programs.(MyTVCebu)