DSWD backs bill seeking to regulate fund-raising, solicitation for charity

DSWD Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman. FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Social Welfare and Development is backing a proposed law seeking to regulate fund-raisers and solicitations for charity works.

In a statement, the DSWD supported the passage of House Bill Number 4650 or the Public Solicitation Act to protect the public from unscrupulous solicitations.

Social Welfare Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman stressed the importance of the proposal, since it would allow the government to efficiently monitor the use of funds culled from such activities.

The agency also urged the public to be wary of unscrupulous solicitors.

“We need to be aware of the validity of various solicitations and fund-raising activities that we are called upon to support,” she added.

HB No. 4650 seeks to regulate public solicitations, increase the proceeds allocated for charity projects, protect the beneficiaries and impose penalties for violators.

The proposed measure was sponsored by Representatives Arturo Robes, Giorgidi Aggabao and Josephine Ramirez-Sato.

The bill covers both government and non-government organizations including faith-based people’s organizations and civil society organizations, state colleges and universities.

Organizations and agencies created by law that specifically allows these groups to solicit funds for charity are exempted from applying for a solicitation permit.

Caroling during festivals or celebrations as a form of solicitation, as well as soliciting for the construction of a church, mosque or any structure of worship shall be exempted too.

Solicitations must have the approval of the DSWD, the provincial or city social welfare development office.

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