CALUMPIT, BULACAN — A digital financial aid program launched by the Calumpit local government on Wednesday, July 24, sparked online backlash after it required residents to upload photos with their families inside flooded homes to qualify for government assistance.
The initiative, dubbed “E-Ayuda,” was posted on the official Facebook page of Calumpit Mayor Lem Faustino, detailing that residents must comment on the post with a photo of their family affected by floodwaters, include personal information, and share the post while tagging Facebook friends. A live raffle draw was also scheduled later that evening to determine who would receive the aid through a GCash digital wallet.
“Tune in to our Facebook Live tonight to witness the selection of lucky recipients who will receive E-Ayuda from our municipal government,” the post read.
The announcement quickly went viral, receiving over 20,000 reactions and 9,000 shares, but not all responses were positive. Critics on social media described the process as “insensitive” and “a raffle-like game” for what should be an equitable public service.
Mayor Responds: “This Is Just One of Our Methods”
Later that evening, Mayor Faustino addressed the concerns in a Facebook Live session with other local officials. She clarified that the e-ayuda mechanism was just one of several efforts being made to help residents affected by flooding caused by recent storms and the southwest monsoon.
“We went house-to-house to provide direct assistance,” she said. “This E-Ayuda method was only an additional way to reach out, especially to those who may have been missed during in-person distributions.”
Following the backlash, the mayor announced that all residents who posted their photos within the given timeframe (1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.) would now receive aid—not just those selected via live draw.
“Everyone who posted a picture showing their flooded homes with family members will now receive assistance through GCash,” she confirmed.
Verification and Prioritization
According to Faustino and other LGU officials, the requirement to upload photos was intended to help identify those most severely impacted by the flooding. She explained that limited resources compelled the LGU to prioritize the most vulnerable, and photo documentation was part of that verification process.
“The photos are there to show us the true situation of our constituents,” she explained. “Our budget is limited, and we want to ensure help goes where it is most needed.”
Ongoing Relief and Long-Term Planning
The Calumpit LGU assured the public that long-term solutions for flood prevention are underway, in addition to the immediate financial aid being distributed. Officials reiterated their commitment to serve despite the criticism.
“What’s important is that we all work together,” Mayor Faustino said. “We won’t be distracted by the bashing or negativity. Our councilors are still on the ground—even those who are unwell are continuing relief efforts.”
Calumpit was placed under a state of calamity on Tuesday, July 23, after days of persistent rainfall and severe flooding across several barangays.
