Quezon City street dwellers get aid

MANILA, Philippines — Several street dwellers and members of indigenous people (IP) communities have received aid and transportation assistance from the Quezon City government as part of its intensified efforts against mendicancy.

Mayor Joy Belmonte said yesterday she has instructed relevant local officials to coordinate with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in reaching out to IPs and street dwellers who roam the city.

Eighty individuals, including 19 Aetas, were among those who were processed and provided with assistance, which includes baskets of grocery items.

Belmonte said the city’s Social Services and Development Department (SSDD) also booked tickets for the Aetas and coordinated with bus companies to allow them to join trips back to their hometowns despite short notice.

She said the SSDD also reached out to other street dwellers, provided them food and transportation, and informed them about existing regulations regarding mendicancy.

The mayor noted an existing policy that prohibits mendicancy and provides penalties to those who use infants and minors in begging for alms.