In 2025, many families in the Philippines continue to struggle with the rising cost of living. To help them, the government provides monthly cash assistance through a program called the Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT). This financial help is meant for the poorest households so they can afford food, medicine, education, and other daily needs.

The UCT program was launched to lessen the impact of the TRAIN Law, which raised taxes on fuel and other products. While the law reduced income tax for some, it also made basic goods more expensive. The government created the UCT as a safety net, especially for families with low or no income, senior citizens, and those who aren’t part of other government programs.

Managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the UCT program is the country’s biggest anti-poverty initiative. Even though the amount is not large, this aid plays a big role in helping people survive tough times. Now in 2025, the yearly support remains at ₱3,600 per household — a much-needed lifeline for millions.

Overview of the 2025 UCT Program

The UCT program is a key government initiative created to balance the effects of tax reforms under the TRAIN Law (Republic Act No. 10963). As higher taxes made goods more expensive, the UCT program was introduced to support low-income families and seniors who were hit the hardest.

Instead of giving conditions for spending (like other welfare programs), the UCT gives people the freedom to use the money in whatever way they need — whether it’s food, transport, or health needs. This unconditional approach makes the program flexible and easier to manage for the beneficiaries.

Who Can Get the UCT Help?

The UCT program targets people who are most affected by inflation and rising prices. These are the main groups who can benefit:

1. 4Ps Beneficiaries

People already part of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) receive extra support through UCT to help with added expenses from higher prices.

2. Senior Citizens (Social Pensioners)

Elderly individuals receiving pensions under various laws like RA 7432, RA 9257, and RA 9994 are automatically included in the UCT to support them as their fixed income often falls short.

3. Poor Households Identified by DSWD

Families listed in the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR), who are not part of other programs but are still poor, are also eligible for the UCT.

Steps to Apply and Required Papers

While most UCT beneficiaries are pre-identified by the DSWD, proper documents must be submitted to receive the money. These include:

Know Your Customer (KYC) Form – For banking record verification
Photocopy of Valid ID – Any government-issued ID for identity proof
Two 2×2 Photos – For bank records
Barangay Certificate – For those without valid IDs
Name Discrepancy Certificate – If names don’t match across documents
Authorization Letter – For someone else to claim the cash
Death Certificate – If claiming on behalf of a deceased beneficiary

How Beneficiaries Get Their Cash

The government has made sure to use multiple ways to give money so that everyone, even in remote areas, can access the support:

Land Bank Cash Cards – Main method of payment. Money can be withdrawn from ATMs.
Other Bank Accounts – Used when Land Bank is not available.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Payouts – For people without bank accounts.
Community Payout Channels – Telecoms, cooperatives, and remittance centers are used in faraway places.

Problems Faced by the Program

Despite its benefits, the UCT program faces some serious issues:

Outdated or Wrong Data – Errors in the list of beneficiaries can delay payments.
Hard-to-Reach Areas – Some remote places lack access to banks or payout centers.
Fraud and Misuse – Some individuals try to cheat the system, so strict monitoring is needed.
Budget Concerns – The program depends on TRAIN Law funds. If these reduce, UCT payments may suffer.

Plans to Make UCT Better in the Future

To keep the UCT program strong and improve it further, the government is looking into several changes:

Use of Digital Payments – Sending money via mobile wallets and apps can speed up the process.
Better Data Systems – Updating household data will reduce errors in selecting beneficiaries.
Possible Increase in Grant Amount – Due to inflation, the government may raise the yearly amount.
Stronger Monitoring Tools – Feedback systems and digital tracking will help reduce fraud.

Where to Get Help or Ask Questions

People with concerns about the UCT program or those needing assistance can contact:

Melecio C. Ubilas Jr.
Chief Administrative Officer, Policy and Plans Division
Phone: (072) 687-8000, Local 244
Email: ppd.fo1@dswd.gov.ph

Philippines UCT 2025: How ₱3,600 Support Is Helping Poor Families