Senator Alan Peter Cayetano accused President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.of rejecting a proposed P10,000 aid plan for pandemic-affected Filipinos after his 2022 presidential victory.In a Facebook livestream on July 17, 2026, Cayetano claimed Marcos refused to allocate funds despite the government's financial capacity.

He highlighted annual discussions with the Finance Chairman about budgeting up to P400 billion for aid, arguing that providing P10,000 per beneficiary was feasible.

Cayetano criticized the administration for delayed announcements of financial assistance, suggesting funds were diverted before reaching beneficiaries.The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) announced the expanded UPLIFT program would distribute P2,000 to 3.5 million households in Group 1, with additional support for Groups 2 and 3 over six months.

The article underscores political tensions over economic relief and public accountability, with Cayetano's claims sparking debate about fiscal responsibility and aid distribution.GMA News sought comment from the Palace but received no response.

The DSWD emphasized the program's focus on poverty alleviation, but Cayetano's accusations highlight concerns about delayed aid and opaque budgeting processes.