The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has deployed more social workers and support personnel to its new Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) processing center to provide faster and more efficient service to thousands of Filipinos seeking aid daily.
The AICS processing center was transferred from the DSWD Central Office in Batasan to the Commonwealth Satellite Office in Paragon Place, Quezon City last July 31 to give beneficiaries a more comfortable and accessible venue.
DSWD Assistant Secretary and co-spokesperson Juan Carlo Marquez said the additional personnel will help accommodate more clients.
“Nagdagdag tayo ng mga social workers na nagsasagawa ng interview at assessment. Ang capacity ng ating bagong processing office ay kayang mag-accommodate ng 1,000 katao at a given time. Ibig sabihin mas madami na tayong matutulungan sa loob ng isang araw sa mas convenient na lugar,” Marquez said.
To further reduce waiting times, the DSWD has also streamlined its procedures, cutting the original five steps down to three.
“Kung dati ay mayroon tayong limang steps, dahil sa ating ginawang streamlining of processes, tatlo na lang po ang steps natin,” Marquez explained.
The three steps now include: getting a queue number, interview and assessment by social workers, and release of assistance.
Marquez said these reforms follow Secretary Rex Gatchalian’s directive to improve efficiency and ensure that clients receive aid with dignity and comfort during difficult times.
