P124-B cash aid still being pushed for inclusion in 2023 budget

A GROUP of progressive party-lists that form part of the minority in the House of Representatives continue to push for the inclusion of a P124-billion fund for cash aid in the 2023 budget, a move supported by public finance experts.   

“We agree that ayuda (cash aid) should be part of the 2023 budget,” Kenneth Isaiah I. Abante, the coordinator of Citizen’s Budget Tracker, said during a forum on Monday organized by the Makabayan bloc.   

Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene D. Brosas, a member of the bloc, said the funds would be used to provide a one-time cash aid of P2,000 to 62 million poor and vulnerable individuals.

Ms. Brosas added that a maximum of P10,000 could be given to 12.4 million poor families. 

Mr. Abante said cash aid remains crucial as it supports teachers and other low-income workers affected by the coronavirus pandemic. 

“It’s an important reminder that the pandemic isn’t finished, as we speak there’s around a 15% positivity rate,” he said.   

Zy-za Nadine M. Suzara, a public finance expert and executive director of I-Lead, said the government can afford the cash aid by realigning other funds.  

“We need cash aid because the pandemic is still ongoing,” Ms. Suzara said during the same forum.   

She said the proposed 2023 expenditure program could put more emphasis on people-centered programs. — Matthew Carl L. Montecillo