March 28, 2024

The Department of Social Welfare and Development has reminded the public to be careful in providing donations to groups or individuals asking for donations for those who are affected by the volcanic activities of Mt. Taal in Batangas.
The reminder was issued due to reports that some groups and individuals are allegedly doing solicitation activities.
“We believe that many good hearted people want to extend their blessings to our kababayans who are in a difficult situation now, but we also need to ensure that our donations will be used for the welfare of the beneficiaries and not for the personal interest of the solicitor ” DSWD-CAR OIC Director Leo L. Quintilla said.
DSWD is mandated to provide solicitation permit to individuals, groups, organizations, or offices that wish to solicit monetary donation for public and charitable purposes.
Under Memorandum Circular 17 s. 2014, any group or organization issued with a solicitation permit is required to submit a fund utilization report, list of donors and beneficiaries, and other pertinent documents upon the expiry of the issued permit.
DSWD offices issue permits for regional or national fund solicitation activities. The validity of the permits shall not exceed six months or one year, respectively.
Fund raising activities covering only one municipality or city will be handled by the concerned local government unit.
Non-government organizations, civil society organizations, and private entities that wish to conduct fund raising activities are also regulated by the DSWD.
“We encourage our donors to coordinate with the nearest local social welfare and development office or DSWD office in their area for them to be guided in the donation process.
“The public can also ask for the solicitation permits of individuals or groups asking donations from them,” Quintilla said.
Individuals or organizations that fail to present a solicitation permit may be reported at any DSWD office or LGU in the area of concern. Sanctions may be implemented as stated in the Solicitation Permit Law.
Donors may visit the DSWD-CAR helpdesk at 40 North Drive, Baguio City or may call (074) 661-0430 or 0917-871-9893 or 0919-065-5365. Queries may also be sent through https://www.facebook.com/dswdfocar. – DSWD release