Senate approves DALI Act that allows same-day release of government assistance

Voting 19-0-0, the Senate on Wednesday approved on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 155,  which seeks to streamline access to government aid by removing unnecessary documentary requirements and ensuring same-day release of assistance.

Authored by Senator Erwin Tulfo, once enacted, the proposed measure will also be known as the Direkta at Agad na Lingap at Interbensiyon (DALI) Act.

“For too long, our kababayans have been burdened by excessive and repetitive documentary requirements. These requirements cost them time, money, and sometimes dignity,” Tulfo said.

“This bill ensures that government assistance becomes truly accessible, inclusive, efficient, and responsive. This is a reform rooted in social justice. It affirms a simple principle: Assistance should be given with compassion, not complication,” added the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development.

Under the DALI Act, government agencies will be required to ask for only three documents when availing of financial assistance: a valid government-issued identification card; a billing statement from a hospital, clinic, or funeral parlor; and an original or certified true copy of a medical certificate or medical abstract containing complete details.

Upon submission of the complete requirements, the measure directs the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Health (DOH), the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), PhilHealth, and other concerned national and local government agencies to process and release financial assistance within the day.

Requests filed on weekends, holidays, or outside regular working hours shall be processed on the next working day.

If beneficiaries are unable to personally submit the requirements, their relatives within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity, or a legal guardian, may file the request on their behalf, subject to the presentation of an authorization letter and valid identification cards of both the beneficiary and the representative.

The bill also provides for digital applications for government aid once enacted into law, directing the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to develop and utilize the eGov PH Super App or other digital platforms for this purpose.

In cases of undue delays, excessive documentary demands, or other forms of non-compliance, the DSWD and other concerned agencies shall coordinate with the Anti-Red Tape Authority to ensure full adherence to the proposed law and the Ease of Doing Business Act.