The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has warned beneficiaries of government financial programs against using cash aid for illegal gambling.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian warned that beneficiaries found to be using their cash aid for gambling could be removed from the program and barred from receiving future assistance.
In a department-wide memorandum released Monday, Aug. 18, Gatchalian directed all program implementers to ensure that beneficiaries use the government’s cash aid solely for its intended purpose.
The directive calls for program staff to reinforce this rule with beneficiaries, strengthen monitoring after fund distribution, and activate grievance mechanisms to address any reported violations.
“These funds are for public purposes and cannot be used for any other purpose, especially in all forms and modes of gambling,” the memorandum read.
Gatchalian urged beneficiaries to use government assistance responsibly to support their families and help ease poverty.
DSWD said the memorandum supports the Marcos administration’s firm stance against gambling and the harm it causes to the financial well-being of Filipinos.
It also follows the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ recent order requiring financial institutions to disconnect e-wallets from gambling platforms.
