Koko to pols: Stay away from ayuda distribution

MANILA, Philippines — Politicians should stay away from in-person distribution of ayuda or financial assistance from the government so as not to mislead the public that the aid comes from them, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said yesterday.

The mere presence of certain politicians in the distribution of ayuda, like the Pantawid para sa Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), Medical Assistance to Indigent Patients (MAIP), Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) and benefits for solo parents, gives the impression that the money came from the politicians’ pockets, according to Pimentel.

“No. 1, when it comes to the actual distribution of money, politicians should exit (from the venue). They should not give the impression that the money comes from them, and actual politicians or staff should not be allowed, and also avoid even joking that the money comes from
 politicians,” he said in an interview over radio station dzBB.

The senator, however, admitted that during ayuda distribution, when the event would take place at 3 p.m., people would already be at the venue as early as 1 p.m., thus positive messages from some politicians and government leaders could inspire beneficiaries.

“What I see is that there is waiting time. And at 1 p.m., (beneficiaries) are already at the venue, even though the actual distribution is still at 3 p.m., so there are invited speakers. That’s the reality. To not waste time and have a good and inspirational message, that’s okay. But when it comes to actual distribution, politicians should be asked to leave the venue,” Pimentel said.

Reports had it that the government aid, like 4Ps, AIC, MAIP, TUPAD and benefits for solo parents were offered to individuals in exchange for affixing their signatures in the ongoing people’s initiative (PI) pushing to amend the 1987 Constitution.

The PI being initiated by the People’s Initiative for Reform and Modernization Action (PIRMA) was also pushing for Congress to vote as one and jointly, thus diminishing the power of the 24 senators as against 316 congressmen.

Meanwhile, Pimentel said that President Marcos should