DSWD will strictly monitor public solicitation permits

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will use its newly launched digital platform to closely monitor groups holding public solicitation permits.

The DSWD issues public solicitation permits to non-stock and non-profit organizations or social welfare and development agencies (SWDAs).

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The Philippine News Agency says these permits help the public spot and avoid fraudulent solicitation activities. 

Director Megan Therese Manahan of the DSWD’s Standards Bureau (SB) explained that groups must have distribution plans for specific beneficiaries.

“After two months, when the permit expires, you would need to submit reportorial requirements to us,” she said. 

The DSWD provides a digital hub called the Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS) for its regulatory services for SWDAs.

Director Manahan added that the agency has delegated its field offices to ensure SWDAs comply with their public solicitation permits. 

“Very strong kami in requiring reports kasi if hindi sila nag-comply, hindi ka na pwedeng mag-renew. Pwede ka rin ma-blacklist sa amin,” she stated. 

(We are strict in requiring reports because if they don’t comply, they risk their renewal or worse, we could blacklist them.)

Under Presidential Decree No. 1564 or the Solicitation Permit Law, the DSWD holds exclusive authority over the regulation of donation solicitations and contributions for charitable or public welfare purposes.

Individuals, groups, and organizations must obtain a solicitation permit from the DSWD before collecting donations or voluntary contributions.

This requirement verifies the legitimacy of fundraising efforts. Moreover, it prevents schemes that exploit donors’ generosity and beneficiaries’ needs.