DSWD Clarifies Livelihood Assistance Process for Rose
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently addressed questions about the P80,000 livelihood assistance given to Rose, the woman who emerged from a Makati sewer. The agency emphasized that the support follows its standard procedures, despite some online critics suggesting her case was prioritized because it became viral.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the DSWD’s approach involves a gradual release of aid rather than providing the entire amount upfront. At a briefing in Manila, the agency’s leadership explained that this method allows for continuous monitoring and guidance.
“In all our cases, it’s a gradual monitoring system — it involves hand-holding. What our social worker will do is first provide initial assistance — in fact, just last night, they reportedly started buying items to sell in the store,” a spokesperson said. “Then, we’ll monitor them again. If we see that things are going well, we’ll keep adding to the support until the full P80,000 is completed.”
Case Management and Monitoring Under the Pag-abot Program
Rose’s situation is handled like any other under the DSWD’s Pag-abot Program, which assigns social workers to manage and follow up on livelihood interventions. The department highlighted its extensive workforce dedicated to social work, ensuring close case management.
“Case management is always important, and among all the departments, only we can say that we have the most social workers because we are the Department of Social Workers,” the agency’s representative added.
Moreover, Rose underwent the same assessment and profiling as other clients. Her determination to improve her life played a significant role in the decision to extend assistance.
“Our social workers saw that they have the potential to lift themselves out of the streets, which means they have their own discipline in how they manage their income,” the official explained.
Public Reactions and Broader Concerns
The livelihood assistance to Rose has sparked mixed reactions across social media and community circles. Some praised the DSWD’s prompt response and support, while others questioned whether countless others in similar situations remain unnoticed because their stories did not go viral.
Community leaders and local observers suggest this case highlights the importance of equitable aid distribution and consistent monitoring to help vulnerable populations. Meanwhile, the DSWD continues to emphasize that all clients receive individualized attention and support based on their circumstances.
For more news and updates on livelihood assistance, visit Filipinokami.com.