Manila, Sept. 8 -- The Marcos administration is proposing PHP33.285 billion for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program under the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP), a 23.15-percent increase from the amount originally proposed in the 2026 NEP.

The proposed allocation, which is under the Protective Services for Individuals and Families in Difficult Circumstances (PSIFDC), is expected to provide assistance to 4.6 million vulnerable Filipinos facing difficult circumstances.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said the proposed AICS funding forms part of the PHP241.6-billion allocation for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the 2027 NEP to support the...