DSWD urges public to avoid giving alms to street children and indigenous groups during holidays

DAVAO CITY — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has renewed its appeal to the public to refrain from giving alms to children in street situations, homeless individuals, and members of Indigenous Peoples’ (IP) groups, whose numbers typically increase during the holiday season.

In a statement released on Friday, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao emphasized the importance of providing assistance in a responsible and organized manner to address the root causes of mendicancy and protect vulnerable individuals.

“The DSWD would not like to dampen the Christmas spirit. Gusto pa rin po natin na magbahagi po ng tulong lalong-lalo na sa mga bata (We still want to share, especially with children), so the responsible means of doing that is to reach out to them and remove them from the streets,” Dumlao said.

Alignment with the Anti-Mendicancy Law

The DSWD’s call aligns with Presidential Decree No. 1563, or the Anti-Mendicancy Law, which prohibits begging and soliciting charitable donations on the streets by individuals or religious organizations.

To curb mendicancy, the DSWD recommends alternative ways of extending help, such as organizing gift-giving activities, feeding programs, medical missions, storytelling sessions, and group caroling in partnership with local government units (LGUs).

Ensuring Children’s Safety During Caroling

Dumlao also stressed the importance of ensuring children’s safety, particularly those participating in caroling sessions. She urged parents and guardians to supervise children during such activities to protect them from harm.

“We want to ensure a safe Christmas experience for all children. Hence, the importance of parental or guardian supervision during caroling sessions,” Dumlao added.

Solicitation Permits for Fundraising Activities

For organizations or groups conducting fundraising activities through caroling, Dumlao reminded them to secure proper solicitation permits.

• For region-wide or nationwide activities, permits must be obtained from the DSWD.
• For activities confined to a specific community, city, or municipality, permits should be secured from the respective LGU.

A solicitation permit, issued by the DSWD or LGUs, authorizes individuals or entities to collect donations or voluntary contributions for charitable or public welfare purposes. This measure ensures transparency and prevents illegal fundraising activities that may exploit the goodwill of donors or the intended beneficiaries.

The DSWD’s renewed call underscores the need for collective action to address mendicancy while fostering a safe and compassionate environment for vulnerable groups during the holiday season.