Beware of donation scam! – DSWD-CAR

Baguio City, Philippines – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)- Regional Office warned the public on Monday, November 16 against groups and individuals asking for donations for the victims of typhoon Ulysses.

DSWD-CAR OIC Director Leo L. Quintilla in a statement told that public must be cautious in giving donations especially to group and individuals who are claiming that they are to give aid to affected communities.

“They can ask for the solicitation permits to ensure the authenticity of fund raising activities,” Quintilla said.

In a report by the agency today, they said groups and individuals who are to conduct fund raising activities should secure a permit first from DSWD before they could start doing their endeavours of helping typhoon victims. This is contained in the Presidential Decree 1564 or the Solicitation Permit Law.

Said law aims to protect donors as well as potential beneficiaries from abuse by implementing guidelines and sanctions related to the conduct of fund raising activities and handling of funds gathered as a result of such activities.

Fund utilization report, list of donors and beneficiaries and other pertinent documents upon the expiry of given permit are also required to be passed by the fundraisers to the agency.

According to the agency, the validity of the said permits shall not exceed six (6) months or one (1) year, respectively. As for fund raising activities covering only one municipality or city, this will be handled by the concerned local government unit.

Regulation is also implemented to non-government organizations, civil society organizations and private entities who are interested in conducting fund raising activities.

As for religious institutions, barangay projects, and other institutions which were created to conduct fund campaign for charitable or public welfare purposes, they are exempted in securing the necessary permit which will be provided by the agency.

Quintilla was then quoted saying, “The DSWD issues authority to conduct fund raising activities when institutions are able to present certification or registration and other necessary documents. Through these, we are able to ensure that the raised money will be used for the welfare of the identified beneficiaries and not for the personal interest of the solicitor.”

Quintilla is also extending his gratitude to individuals who are interested and yet to provide donations to families affected by typhoon in the region and nearby regions such as Cagayan Valley.

“Our office is open for donations such as brand new clothes, canned goods and other ready to eat food, drinking water, sleeping and hygiene essentials. Your donations will not just help a family, it will remind them of the true spirit of bayanihan which the Cordillerans are always known for,” the director informed.

DSWD CAR is also encouraging donors and volunteers to directly coordinate with their respective local social welfare and development offices, or the DSWD FO CAR at 40 North Drive Baguio City or call +6374 661 04 30 or +63917 872 0252/ +63917 871 9893 / +63919 065 5365 to 68.

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