The House and Senate failed to reconcile differences on the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations bill during a June 17 special session, leaving it deadlocked over a Senate provision barring politicians from distributing aid.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had included the AICS measure among eight priority bills for urgent action in the special session. The House passed its version in December 2025, while the Senate approved its bill on May 12 this year.
Senator Erwin Tulfo said the impasse stemmed from House opposition to the Senate’s “anti-epal” clause, which prohibits public officials from participating in aid distribution or displaying their images in connection with the program. He questioned the need for further study of the provision.
Davao Oriental Representative Cheeno Miguel Almario, the House social services chairperson, rejected the claim of opposition. He stated that safeguards already exist in the 2026 General Appropriations Act and that any penal provisions require careful bicameral discussion to ensure enforceability.
With no agreement reached, the bill will not reach the President before the State of the Nation Address in late July.
