The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here reminds the public to be careful in providing donations to groups or individuals who are asking for donations.
“We are asking our good-hearted donors to be careful in providing donations by asking for permits to ensure the authenticity of the solicitations”, DSWD FO CAR Regional Director Arnel B. Garcia, CESO II said.
Presidential Decree 1564 or the Solicitation Permit Law mandates all individuals and groups interested to conduct fund raising activities to secure a permit from the DSWD or its local counterparts. This is to safeguard 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.
“The solicitation permit warrants us that the funds or resources that will be gathered will be used accordingly and will not benefit those who are taking advantage of the situation since any individual or group issued with a solicitation permit is required to submit fund utilization report, list of donors and beneficiaries, and other pertinent documents upon the expiry of issued permit”, Director Garcia said.
As mandated by the law, DSWD Offices shall issue permits for regional or national fund solicitation activities. Meanwhile, fund raising activities covering only one municipality or city will be handled by the concerned local government unit. Validity of said permits shall not exceed one (1) year.
Meanwhile, religious institutions, barangay projects, and other institutions that have been created to conduct fund campaign for charitable or public welfare purposes are exempted in securing the said permit.
Public solicitation activities covered by the law includes selling of tickets, ballots, and cards; setting up of donation boxes, coin banks; conduct of benefit shows such as fashion show, concerts and photo or painting exhibits; conduct of sports activities for a cause such as Fun Run, marathon, cycling; and setting up of rummage sale, garage sale, or sales of goods particularly done to generate funds for potential beneficiaries.
Other methods of solicitation also involve written requests such as envelopes, letter of appeal, or greeting card; and text messages and other types of solicitation using electronic devices such as e-mail; and social media.
“Social media can be easily used by individuals and groups for their solicitation activities. Although we are aware of the need of some to do such, we would also like to enforce the Solicitation Permit Law not just for our donors’ protection but the beneficiaries as well. Our social welfare offices are ready to assist potential solicitors in processing their permits”, Director Garcia added.
Individuals and groups planning to apply for a solicitation permit should prepare their project proposal and duly accomplished application form for the proposed solicitation activity. Additional documents such as pledge of commitment, case study report, or fund utilization report will be required by the Social Welfare and Development Office for the processing of the permit. Requirements will depend on the institution conducting the solicitation and type and purpose of the activity.
Meanwhile, individuals or groups who are interested to donate or volunteer may 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.#DSWD-CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, Nerizza Faye G. Villanueva- Trinidad
