THE newly-installed regional director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Western Visayas reiterated the agencys non-partisan stand, especially in the distribution of relief goods.
We remain to be non-partisan. We are apolitical, said Regional Director Ma. Evelyn B. Macapobre.
In a memorandum, Macapobre directed the Disaster Response Management Division that distribution of relief goods must be done by DSWD staff only.
Our staff has to emphasize that the assistance is from the national government, she added.
Macapobre issued the memorandum after reports reached the DSWD that one political party claimed to have secured help from the agency on behalf of the fire victims at Brgy. Taal in Molo, Iloilo City.
Right after the fire, the agency distributed non-food items which consist of dignity kits (towels, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo) and Sleeping Kits (sleeping mat and blanket) to 33 families whose houses were gutted by fire.
DRMD Chief Luna Moscoso said that prior the distribution, it was emphasized that the assistance was from DSWD and not from any political party.
Despite the clear message, one political party still claimed to have secured the aid in behalf of the people.
The agency has recently called on the public to ensure that political parties do not dupe the people.
In the past, there were experiences of beneficiaries being threatened to be delisted in programs if they will not support political candidates.
Only DSWD can delist them in the program. No political candidate can, Macapobre stressed. (DSWD)
