Over a third of fuel aid recipients lack social safety net coverage

MANILA — More than a third of beneficiaries who received P5,000 in fuel assistance from the government were not covered by any form of social protection, according to a Social Weather Stations survey released by the Office of the Executive Secretary on Tuesday.

The survey found that recipients of the fuel aid program lacked enrollment in key government safety net programs, including the Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and other government assistance initiatives designed to protect vulnerable populations.

The findings underscore gaps in the government's social protection system, suggesting that a significant portion of fuel aid recipients operate outside formal social security frameworks. This raises questions about the overall vulnerability of this demographic and their access to broader welfare programs during economic hardship.

The survey was commissioned as part of efforts to assess the effectiveness and reach of government assistance programs. The data indicates that while fuel aid targeted vulnerable households, many recipients remain unregistered in programs that could provide additional financial security and healthcare coverage.

The results highlight the need for better coordination between emergency assistance programs and broader social protection initiatives to ensure comprehensive coverage for economically disadvantaged Filipinos.