MANILA—The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Saturday said plans are underway to rescue street children and beggars in Metro Manila and neighboring areas this holiday season.

According to DSWD spokesperson Glenda Relova, the agency will coordinate with local government units to help street dwellers and members of Indigenous Peoples.

“The DSWD continues to maintain its close coordination with our LGUs to help street dwellers. The reach out is being conducted by the local governments," Relova said in a statement.

Relova assured the public that the DSWD has centers where street dwellers can temporarily stay.

"When the rescued street children and street families are brought to our centers, our social workers carry out a comprehensive case analysis to determine the best possible way to assist them," she said.

"They are also provided with various services, such as initial check-ups and provision of hot meals and hygiene kits.”

Meanwhile, Indigenous Peoples found begging on the streets will be assisted by the DSWD through its "Balik-Probinsya Program."

Relova also reiterated the DSWD's appeal to the public not to give money to street dwellers.

“Again, we are appealing to the public not to give alms. Mas mainam po na ang ating tulong ay idirekta natin sa long-term programs na makakapagbigay ng komprehensibong tulong sa ating mga kababayang IPs at street children," she said.

(It would be better to direct our help to long-term programs that would provide a comprehensive help to our fellow citizens who are IPs and street children)

• Huwag magbigay ng limos sa mga pulubi, panawagan ng DSWD