Laguna: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has shut down an unlicensed care facility in Barangay Landayan, San Pedro, Laguna owned and managed by vlogger Benjie Perillo, popularly known as BenchTV.
According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao announced that the operation was conducted by the agency's Standards Bureau (SB) in collaboration with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of San Pedro, the DSWD field office in Calabarzon, barangay officials, and local law enforcement authorities early Thursday morning.
Initial investigation by the DSWD-SB showed that BenchTV has been rescuing individuals living on the streets since 2020 and subsequently reuniting some with their families. During the operation, the DSWD discovered a total of 12 individuals who were staying at the shelter, two of whom are minors.
Six individuals, including the two minors, were successfully transferred to the custody of the DSWD for appropriate intervention and placement. The remaining six will be under close monitoring of the LGU for immediate reintegration with their respective families.
'The role of the Department is not to discourage compassion-driven initiatives, but to make sure that every shelter operates within standards that protect the dignity, safety, and rights of clients. This is part of strengthening regulatory functions to ensure that well-meaning efforts do not result in unintended harm,' Dumlao said.
The City Health Office (CHO) of San Pedro has conducted medical assessments focusing on vital signs, and social workers carried out comprehensive profiling of the beneficiaries to ensure proper case management. All rescued individuals were assisted by DSWD's licensed social workers and were formally endorsed to social workers of the receiving care facilities to guarantee continuity of care.
'Regulation is essential in social welfare work because vulnerable individuals deserve services that meet minimum standards of care. The Department will continue engaging unlicensed shelters, providing guidance while taking necessary action to uphold child protection and social welfare laws,' Dumlao pointed out.
During the dialogue with BenchTV, the DSWD-SB provided technical assistance related to the licensing process, including the requirements and procedures for securing a Certificate of Registration and License to Operate (CRLTO) and the forms of support available to organizations seeking compliance with regulatory standards. Following the assessment, the SB issued a suspension order directing BenchTV to stop shelter operations until full compliance with licensing requirements is achieved.
'The DSWD continues to work with local government units (LGUs), civil society partners, and concerned individuals to ensure that all social welfare institutions operate legally and responsibly, while prioritizing the best interests of those in need,' Dumlao said. 'We also continue to strengthen our regulatory functions by conducting inspections on shelters operating without valid licenses in order to ensure the safety, protection, and welfare of vulnerable individuals,' she added.
