Photo credit: DSWD

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is planning to shift to an e-wallet system for distributing financial aid, aiming to improve efficiency and prevent overcrowding at payout sites.

The move follows a recent incident in Quezon City where a motorcycle taxi rider died while waiting in line to receive assistance. The tragedy raised concerns about long queues and crowd control during aid distribution, especially as large numbers of beneficiaries gathered at the site.

Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian said the agency is using lessons from the initial rollout of cash assistance to improve future payouts. The goal is to ensure that beneficiaries can receive aid more easily and without unnecessary hardship.

Under the proposed system, the DSWD plans to use existing e-wallet accounts of transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers, motorcycle taxi riders, and delivery riders. This approach is expected to reduce the need for physical queuing and make the process faster and more accessible.

DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said the agency is currently conducting consultations on the use of digital payment systems, citing their potential to streamline distribution and minimize risks associated with large crowds.

Authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause of the rider’s death, as the family is still awaiting the official death certificate. The DSWD has extended assistance to the victim’s family while acknowledging that improvements are needed in managing large groups during payouts.

The agency is also considering additional payout schedules for beneficiaries in Metro Manila who have yet to receive assistance, as it works toward a more efficient and safer distribution system.