Photo courtesy of DSWD.
QUEZON CITY — Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian stood firm on Tuesday, Oct. 15, that their office extends assistance to anybody who asks for help as he denied allegations they turned down referral requests for aid from the Office of the Vice President (OVP).
“Everyday naman kahit walang referral ‘pag pumunta ka sa tanggapan ng DSWD tinutulungan ka. Hindi mo kailangan ng referral. Kung may referral, tutulungan ka rin,” Secretary Gatchalian said in a radio interview.
Secretary Gatchalian made the remarks when asked to comment on reports that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) rejected referrals for assistance from the OVP.
He added that DSWD has already coordinated with OVP for clarification. He said they could provide screenshots of their conversations to disprove the allegations.
“So, para sa akin palagay ko ‘yung mga ‘yun ay sapat na na mga documentation para maipakita namin na wala kaming kinikilingang referral or walang referral, or may referral lahat ng pupunta sa office, tinatanggap naman natin,” he said.
“Wala kaming record na aming tinanggihan,” he added.
Gatchalian said they do not politicize helping people. He said licensed social workers are those responsible for extending assistance, which means their licenses are at risk if they politicize helping those in need. (DSWD)
