The DSWD, through its Field Office IV-A, has started the implementation of the hybrid digital payment of financial assistance to clients of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) in Batangas City last January 17, 2025.
A total of 577 clients received their respective medical or burial assistance amounting to a total of PhP 1.85 million.
In partnership with the Land Bank of the Philippines and the Universal Storefront Service Corporation (USSC), the digital payment system enables a faster and more efficient disbursement of financial assistance to the intended beneficiaries. This initiative also minimizes the security risks commonly faced by the DSWD personnel in handling large amounts of cash during scheduled payouts.

The DSWD, the Land Bank of the Philippines, and the USSC signed a Memorandum of Agreement last October 2024 for the implementation of this new payment system in the CALABARZON Region.
The AICS is a regular program implemented by the DSWD that provides support to individuals and families to help them with their financial burdens due to various crisis situations such as illness, hospitalization, and death of a family member among others.
The provision of financial assistance under the program is based on the assessment of the social workers of the current situation of the clients.[with reports from RACepillo]