Middle-Class Families May Also Receive AICS Assistance, According to DSWD
The Department of Social Welfare and Development clarified that middle-class families may also receive AICS assistance.
The agency said that the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations or AICS program is not only for poor families but is also open to middle-class Filipinos who are facing unexpected problems.
On Thursday (May 21, 2026), DSWD Crisis Intervention Program Director Edwin Morata explained that emergencies and sudden hardships can affect anyone regardless of social status during a media forum.
Morata said disasters, health emergencies, and even energy-related problems do not choose whether a person is rich, poor, employed, or part of the middle class.
According to the agency, the AICS program was created to help individuals and families who are struggling with expenses that they were not financially prepared for. The program offers support for medical bills, burial expenses, transportation, education, food, and other urgent financial needs.
The DSWD also shared that the process for applying for AICS has already been simplified to make it easier for people seeking help. Applicants only need to go through three steps which include getting a queue number, attending an assessment and interview, and receiving the approved assistance.
For documentary requirements, applicants must present a valid ID and supporting medical documents such as medical certificates or records from doctors, psychiatrists, or psychologists. Additional documents may also be required depending on the type of assistance being requested.
These may include prescriptions, laboratory requests, treatment protocols, hospital bills, or price quotations for medical procedures and devices.
At the same time, the DSWD warned the public against dealing with fixers or submitting fake documents to illegally receive cash aid. The agency recently filed police reports and criminal cases against individuals involved in fraudulent activities connected to the AICS program.
Morata explained that social workers carefully verify documents and even contact hospitals or clinics to confirm information when needed. He added that while the government wants to help as many people as possible, the program should not be abused.
For 2026, the AICS program was given a budget of P63.9 billion and has already helped millions of Filipinos in recent years.
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