BAGUIO CITY – The Baguio City Council’s discussion on the alleged politicization of relief efforts on August 5, 2024 led to a proposal to ban the presence of politicians during the distribution of social cash assistance.
The city council forum was attended by representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Cordillera (DSWD-CAR), the Department of Labor and Employment-Baguio-Benguet Field Office (DOLE-BBFO), and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
Councilor Fred Bagbagen and other city council members pointed out the presence of politicians at payout distribution events, seemingly giving the impression that the funds for cash aid come from their own pockets, and questioned the appropriateness of this involvement.
They expressed concern about the potential for these events to be used for political purposes which could undermine the neutrality and integrity of the assistance programs.
DSWD-CAR representative Mary Ann Buclao explained that while the DSWD is aware of politicians being present at office payouts, their office ensures that elected officials do not claim credit for the funds or appear in promotional materials.
She said social workers make sure that statements made by politicians during payouts are not related to the aid distribution, adding that politicians often talk about generic programs or services but not about the specific payouts.
Cynthia Langagan, OIC Assistant Head of CSWDO, acknowledged that their practice is to avoid inviting politicians to payout distribution events, with the exception of the local chief executive, who delivers welcome remarks as a representative of the city, and other officials with specific roles, such as orienting beneficiaries on program guidelines, as they are members of the programβs committee.Β
She also explained that the local chief executive is typically invited to attend cash assistance distribution events of the CSWDO due to their role in soliciting funds from national offices.
However, she noted that invitations to other politicians, such as congressmen or councilors, are less common, as the focus typically centers on the mayor as the primary point of contact for such requests.
Meanwhile, Councilor Benny Bomogao argued that the mere presence of politicians at such events, regardless of their role, might be perceived as politicking.
He said it could be worth considering a ban on elected officials attending these events, so that only civil servants from DSWD, CSWDO, and DOLE are involved in facilitating these programs.
Bomogao suggested that the offices or departments themselves should handle all aspects of the payouts, including orientation on guidelines, to reduce the risk of politicians using the events for self-promotion.
Langagan and Timothy Zamora, DOLE-BBFO representative, took note of the suggestion and expressed willingness to minimize politician involvement.
βIf that is possible, then we will comply, as our role is to follow any legislation or directives issued to us,” Zamora said.
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On the other hand, Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda questioned whether it is right to prohibit politicians who have solicited funds for social aid programs to be present during payout events.
She argued that while the funds are indeed public money, recognition should be given to those who helped secure these funds provided they do not use the occasion for political campaigning.Β
Tabanda suggested that clear guidelines should be established to manage the participation of politicians and ensure that they are recognized for their efforts in securing the funds but must refrain from campaign activities or self-promotion during the distribution.
Buclao confirmed that these funds can come from such solicitations and that the funding can indeed be augmented by the efforts of politicians.
She acknowledged that while politiciansβ presence may be allowed, they should avoid using the event for campaigning.Β
She agreed with Tabanda on the need for guidelines to ensure that relief efforts remain free from political campaigning.
Zamora likewise expressed support for the notion that politiciansβ presence should be acknowledged as a courtesy for their efforts in soliciting funds but should not overshadow the distribution process.
The city council referred the matter to the Committee on Ethics, Governmental Affairs, and Personnel for further study.Β