DUE to some complaints on unscrupulous house to house solicitations, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas (DSWD-7) is requesting the public to be careful in dealing with individuals or groups who are soliciting this Yuletide season using the identity of DSWD or the clients they are serving.
The National Youth Commission (NYC) also warned the public against individuals or groups who are soliciting money using the name and official logo of the agency.
Since there is a growing number of non-government organizations, associations and civic groups, the government finds it necessary to protect the public from these agencies and individuals seeking donations andvoluntary contributions for their activities and projects.
Under Memorandum Circular Number 2 Series of l999, the DSWD can issue “permit to solicit” if the purpose of the activity is for public welfare or charitable purposes. It issues the permit if the activity covers two or more areas in the region.
DSWD-7 Regional Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre explained that solicitations that are prohibited are house to house, vehicle to vehicle, public transport solicitation and other similar activities contrary to law, public policy and morals.
Macapobre, however, said that caroling during Christmas season does not anymore require a DSWD permit as caroling is part of the country’s tradition.
All applications for public solicitation will be assessed by the DSWD field offices.
The public is enjoined to check if the solicitation permit is legal or call the DSWD office at 2329507 or 2329505 for details.
Meanwhile, according to NYC, a group of individuals claiming to be affiliated with the youth body has been asking for donations for a supposed youth summit.
Reports have reached the NYC about these incidents around Jollibee and Sweet Inspirations in Katipunan, Quezon City, the University Belt Area, Harrison Plaza and Isetann Recto in Manila and in some establishments in Makati City.
The NYC reminds the public that the agency has not authorized any individual or group to solicit or collect donations and advises everyone to report any incident of such encounter by calling (02) 4163415 or 4110384 or sending e-mail to info@nyc.gov.ph.