By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora
MANILA – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Saturday defended its decision to extend PHP80,000 in livelihood assistance to “Rose,” the woman photographed crawling out of a Makati sewer.
Speaking at a news forum, DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao clarified that Rose is among the families and individuals in street situations (FISS) profiled by the agency for tailored support.
Dumlao said because these people have no permanent address, most of them have not been able to benefit from the government’s social protection programs, such as the 4Ps.
“She wasn’t surveyed so she wasn’t included in the 4Ps. In addition, she has no children below 18 years old to qualify,” she explained in Filipino.
Under the Pag-abot Program launched in 2023, the government aims to assist FISS like Rose. So far, about 3,000 families have been reached.
“When we got in touch with her, she was surprised to know that there is aid that can be extended to her,” Dumlao said.
“We talked to her and we’re elated when she shared her thoughts that there is indeed a government that can help her make a fresh start.”
Dumlao said Rose’s situation was assessed before aid was provided.
When she met with the DSWD, Rose conveyed her willingness to receive help and enhance her capacity to earn more, hence the PHP80,000 aid to finance the sari-sari store she hopes to put up.
“That PHP80,000 is case to case basis and not given to all. It depended on the needs and assessment of our social workers,” she said.
“We will provide livelihood assistance because that is part of the package of services that the government provides.”
Dumlao said Rose collects recyclables for a living and only went into the sewer to retrieve a small blade cutter that she uses when collecting garbage.
Rose, she said, earns about PHP300 daily along with her partner, who works as a barker.
Dumlao said the public may refer cases similar to Rose directly to the DSWD. (PNA)
