Department of Economic Planning and Development (DEPDev) Undersecretary Joseph J. Capuno presented a comprehensive progress report on the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) before the Senate Committee on Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT).
Speaking at the Senate Session Hall, USec. Capuno informed lawmakers that the government’s economic response has successfully transitioned from urgent emergency mobilization to a structured phase defined by rigorous implementation tracking and enhanced inter-agency synergy.
During the briefing, USec. Capuno clarified the fiscal strategy supporting the UPLIFT initiatives, noting that current measures are sustained through existing appropriations. He emphasized a disciplined approach to future funding, stating that follow-on support will be strictly “calibrated” based on:
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Validated Needs: Data-driven assessment of affected sectors.
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Fund Utilization: Efficiency of current budget spending.
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Fiscal Space: Balancing relief with the nation’s overall economic health.
“Our goal is to ensure that relief reaches those who need it most while maintaining fiscal responsibility,” Capuno stated. He highlighted that multiple targeted channels are currently delivering relief to diverse sectors, while specific supply and price measures remain in place to cushion households and producers from the volatility of fuel costs.
Looking ahead, DEPDev—acting as the Secretariat of the UPLIFT Committee—is preparing for a strategic pivot. This next phase focuses on refining beneficiary lists and mobilizing resources for areas requiring sustained assistance.
Drawing from lessons learned during initial rollouts, the Committee is set to launch a streamlined program designed to:
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Enhance Targeting: Narrowing the focus to validated beneficiaries to reduce leakages.
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Minimize Friction: Reducing administrative glitches that hampered previous delivery systems.
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Optimize Delivery: Ensuring faster, more reliable distribution of aid.
The presentation underscored the collaborative effort within DEPDev to ensure the program’s success. USec. Capuno was joined by a technical delegation, including:
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Glenda R. Rumohr, Undersecretary for Legislative Affairs
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Desiree Joy O. Narvaez, Director of the National Policy and Planning Staff (NPPS)
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Aldwin U. Urbina, Director of the Monitoring and Evaluation Staff (MES)
The DEPDev remains committed to working alongside the Senate PROTECT Committee to ensure that the UPLIFT program evolves into a more agile and effective tool for national economic resilience.
