San pedro: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has cited multiple findings concerning the safety of the residents of a facility in San Pedro, Laguna, leading to the suspension of the shelter managed by Bench TV. The facility, run by vlogger Benjie Perillo, known as Bench TV, was suspended for providing shelter to individuals, including minors and persons with disabilities, without a valid license from the DSWD's Standards Bureau (SB).
According to Philippines News Agency, SB Director Megan Therese Manahan highlighted the lack of a Certificate of Registration and License to Operate (CRLTO) from DSWD as a primary issue. The facility also lacks professional staff, such as social workers and a multidisciplinary team, which is necessary for case management and intervention for residents.
Manahan emphasized the importance of having registered social workers and proper documentation, including case folders and medical records, which were absent during the inspection. Another major concern is the lack of safety certifications required for social welfare and development agencies (SWDAs), including fire safety inspection certificates and sanitary permits.
The DSWD also noted violations related to the right to privacy and protection of minors and persons with disabilities. Manahan pointed out that the identities of clients were exposed on social media, which is a violation of confidentiality protocols. The agency stressed the need for strict confidentiality and the prohibition of public exposure of children.
Regular government inspections and financial audits are mandatory for SWDAs, which were not observed in this case due to the absence of institutional oversight. The facility's operations were conducted at the discretion of the owner, Benjie Perillo.
The DSWD conducted a site visit in 2022, providing technical assistance for the CRLTO application, but the facility has yet to secure the certification. The department plans to meet with Perillo and his team to offer further technical assistance on obtaining a license and implementing beneficiary-protection and child-protection policies.
