By Rachel Magday

 

NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — Nueva Vizcaya Lone District Rep. Atty. Timothy Joseph E. Cayton is pushing for the passage of House Bill No. 9226, or the DALI Act, which seeks to simplify and speed up the process of obtaining financial assistance and other forms of aid from government offices.

The proposed measure aims to reduce documentary requirements and ensure that complete applications for government assistance are processed within three working days.

Cayton said the bill is not limited to financial assistance provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development but will cover all government agencies and offices that provide aid or assistance to Filipinos in need.

“When people are already in distress, they should no longer be burdened with numerous requirements and repetitive processes. Government service should be direct, fast and compassionate,” Cayton said in Filipino.

The DALI Act seeks to streamline procedures in the release of government assistance, including medical, burial, livelihood, emergency and other forms of aid extended by national government agencies, local government offices and other public institutions.

At present, individuals seeking medical assistance from the DSWD under its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations program are required to present a valid identification card, an updated medical document such as a medical certificate or medical abstract, and a barangay certificate of indigency.

A social case study report may also be required by a DSWD social worker, particularly for requests exceeding P5,000.

Cayton said the current process in several government offices often requires applicants to submit multiple documents and undergo repeated verification, causing delays for people who urgently need help.

He said the proposed DALI Act would help ensure that aid reaches beneficiaries more quickly, especially during medical emergencies, deaths in the family, disasters and other crisis situations.