Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Erwin T. Tulfo on Monday, November 7, defended the officials and personnel of Field Office (FO) IV-A against the recent allegation and claim of Noveleta, Cavite Mayor Dino Chua of the Department’s incompetence in the release and distribution of aid in his municipality during the onslaught of Typhoon ‘Paeng.’

After the fair and impartial inquiry conducted by the Department, Secretary Tulfo said that the Field Office implemented the provision of assistance in an orderly manner. Likewise, FO 4-A Regional Director Barry Chua and his Assistant Regional Director for Operations Mylah Gatchalian were absolved from the allegation as they were only following the existing guidelines.

“I have informed Mayor Dino Chua of the result of our investigation that I find no fault or mistakes committed by our Region IV-A officials and staff,” Secretary Tulfo said during the Department’s flag raising  ceremony  on Monday, November 7, where he addressed the officials and staff of the Central Office.

It can be recalled that the officials of DSWD FO IV-A were temporarily transferred to DSWD Central Office pending the investigation of the alleged stringent requirements being asked from victims of the calamity during the payout of cash assistance.

The Secretary also emphasized that an Identification (ID) Card was asked from the residents in calamity-stricken areas as the sole requirement to receive aid, in compliance with the auditing rules.

“Every centavo we give out to those in need must be accounted for and backed by a piece of document to show that our funds really go to the poor and the needy of this country, and to protect our personnel from graft and corruption cases,” the Secretary added.

Meanwhile, Secretary Tulfo vowed to protect and defend DSWD personnel as long as they are committed to fulfilling their duty anchored on the Department’s mission to “alleviate the suffering of the poor, the needy, the elderly, the vulnerable and the marginalized members” of the society.

“However, make no mistake. I will not condone those members of our agency who treat our clients with disrespect, abuse their position, or get involved in corruption,” Secretary Tulfo said, as he reminded DSWD personnel to serve the people.

As the leader of the Social Welfare Department, Secretary Tulfo ensures the welfare and well-being not only of its intended beneficiaries but also of its employees. ###