In an earlier article, we warned readers about false news regarding the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The agency clarified that it was NOT giving cash aid to graduating students, and reminded the public to be wary of such posts.
Recently, another social media post has gone viral, this time about the DSWD offering scholarships for School Year 2024-2025. Once again, the agency was quick to dispel such announcements, labeling the post as “fake news” and sharing important reminders.
Post About DSWD Offering Scholarships is False
The viral post was made by a Facebook page called “Philippines Scholarship.” It claimed that DSWD was offering scholarships for the coming school year, with the following benefits:
- College – PHP 10,000
- Senior High – PHP 9,000
- High School – PHP 8,000
- Elementary – PHP 7,000
According to the post, the “scholarship” was available only to poor students in public and private school. It also shared a link where students can apply, as well as a deadline for submission.
In response, the DSWD made an announcement on Twitter and other channels: “Walang katotohanan ang mga kumakalat na post na may matatanggap na Scholarship Benefits mula sa DSWD ang mga estudyante (There is no truth to the post saying that students will receive scholarship benefits from DSWD),” the agency said.
“Para sa kaalaman ng lahat, ang DSWD ay hindi nanghihingi ng personal information online dahil ito ay labag sa Data Privacy Act (For everyone’s information, DSWD does not ask for personal information online because this goes against the Data Privacy Act),” the DSWD added.
Moreover, the DSWD made some clarifications regarding its educational programs. First, there’s “educational assistance,” which falls under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations or AICS program. The department said that there are no details yet regarding when this type of assistance would be available.
Secondly, the DSWD explained that the Tara, BASA! Tutoring Program was a “reformatted” type of educational assistance. The program involves cash-for-work (CFW) interventions for low-income families affected by crises or emergency situations.
Finally, the DSWD requested everyone to report the Facebook page, “Philippines Scholarship” because it spreads false information about the programs and services of DSWD and other agencies.
As of this writing, we searched for the “Philippines Scholarship” Facebook page and found that it has been removed or taken down.
Bottom Line
Let us keep in mind that not everything that we see and hear online is true. When it comes to government programs and services, we should follow only official websites and social media channels. Always be on the lookout for fake news — verify the source, data, and finally… do not click any links nor give away personal details!
As for the DSWD’s 4Ps program, check out this article to learn more about it, along with the benefits and conditions involved for member-beneficiaries.