Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian personally met with Jaime Ricafrente, a senior citizen jeepney driver whose emotional appeal went viral after he was left out of the government’s initial cash assistance list.

Ricafrente drew public attention after he was seen in tears upon learning that his name was not included among the beneficiaries.

Gatchalian assured both Ricafrente and the public that the agency is taking steps to correct the situation and ensure he receives the support he needs.

He explained that the DSWD is conducting a thorough verification process to make sure financial aid reaches the rightful recipients.

The secretary stressed that personal verification is necessary to avoid “ghost beneficiaries” and duplication.

“Personal po namin inaabot isa-isa. Gusto namin makita mismo ang tao pati ang lisensya. Kapag wala dito sa Pilipinas o patay na, hindi namin bibigyan,” Gatchalian said.

He added that the government aims to sustain the assistance over time, not just provide one-time aid.