The Pitfalls of The Dole-Out System

The Philippine government has always responded to poverty, disasters and other forms of emergencies through direct financial aid given to individuals and families. The 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino) Program and the recent post-STS Kristine AKAP (Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita) Program, both managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) are some key programs worthy of mention. While such efforts are commendable for the immediate relief they provide, there are pitfalls that cannot be ignored in this way of responding to poverty situations. They create a culture of dependence on government aid and a sense of entitlement among beneficiaries if there are no programs for livelihood training or creation of jobs that can be a more sustainable source of income for the families concerned. These families remain susceptible to future crises since they fail to address the root causes of poverty. They temporarily reduce poverty without creating an economic impact to break the cycle of poverty.

Such programs, prone to corrupt practices such as political favoritism in the selection of beneficiaries and the misuse of government funds for personal gain, can drain the government of its resources without long-term solutions toward economic productivity. The DSWD should instead engage in public-private sector partnerships to develop livelihood skills and provide economic opportunities for these families.

The issue of poverty is mutli-faceted and needs a response beyond just the palliative measures. While it can be an overwhelming challenge, the long-term solutions include the participation of all sectors of government and civil society in working for the common good.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK:

“THE POOR ARE NOT THE PROBLEM. THE POOR ARE THE RESULT OF THE PROBLEM”

- JACQUELINE NOVOGRATZ

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE:

“SPEAK OUT FOR THOSE WHO CANNOT SPEAK, FOR THE RIGHTS OF ALL THE DESTITUTE. DEFEND THE RIGHTS OF THE POOR AND NEEDY”

- PROVERBS 31:8-9