No deductions allowed: Bataan Ordinance prohibits cutting aid from government assistance programs

A new provincial ordinance will soon be in effect across Bataan, strictly prohibiting any form of deduction or solicitation from government aid programs such as TUPAD, AICS, AKAP, and other similar assistance initiatives. The measure aims to protect beneficiaries from illegal charges disguised as “coffee money,” “fuel expenses,” or other unjustified fees.

Under the ordinance, individuals found demanding or deducting any amount from financial aid recipients may face fines, criminal charges, or imprisonment. The law imposes even stricter penalties if the violator is a government official or employee, reinforcing the message that all aid is meant to be received in full, without conditions or hidden costs.