THE leaders of the House of Representatives on Wednesday called on critics of the government’s social welfare programs to end their opposition, citing overwhelming public approval based on recent surveys.
The lawmakers pointed to polls conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS) and Pulse Asia, which showed that 80 to 90 percent of respondents found ayuda (financial aid) programs beneficial.
“Listen to the People,” House Leaders Say
“Pakinggan natin ang ating mga kababayan. Suportado nila ang mga social welfare program at nakakatulong ang mga ito sa kanila. Tama na at itigil na ang paninira,” said Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr.
Gonzales emphasized that few government initiatives have garnered such high levels of public support in recent years.
Deputy Speaker David “Jay-Jay” Suarez expressed satisfaction with the survey results, particularly regarding the Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), which the House introduced in the national budget under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
“We knew from the very start that AKAP was helpful, which is why we pushed to continue funding it in the 2025 budget, despite efforts from some senators to remove it,” Suarez said.
Ayuda Programs Spread Economic Gains to the Poor
Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe defended the programs, stressing that they help distribute the benefits of economic growth to marginalized sectors.
“These programs are funded by taxpayers’ money, which Congress is ensuring is used properly—to help the poor and those struggling to meet their daily needs,” Dalipe said.
He added that financial assistance and other aid programs play a crucial role in poverty alleviation.
Survey Results Show Widespread Support
The SWS survey found that:
90% of respondents said the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) was helpful.
88% approved of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.
81% said AKAP and the Walang Gutom Program had a positive impact.
Similarly, the Pulse Asia poll showed:
82% of respondents believed 4Ps improved financial stability for lower-income Filipinos.
82% said TUPAD benefited Filipinos by providing jobs and livelihoods.
81% credited AKAP with easing financial burdens.
Both surveys were conducted in January 2025, with SWS polling respondents from January 17 to 20 and Pulse Asia from January 18 to 25.
Call to End Criticism
With such strong public endorsement, the House leaders urged detractors to stop opposing ayuda programs and instead support efforts to sustain them.
“This is clear proof that these initiatives work. Let’s focus on improving them rather than tearing them down,” Gonzales concluded.
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