The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has shut down a care facility in Barangay Landayan, San Pedro, Laguna, after finding that it was operating without a valid license.
DSWD Spokesperson Assistant Sec. Irene Dumlao said the Standards Bureau led the Thursday operation with the San Pedro City Social Welfare and Development Office, the agency’s Calabarzon field office, barangay officials, and local law enforcement.
Records indicate that the shelter, managed by vlogger Benjie Perillo, known as BenchTV, has been assisting individuals living on the streets since 2020 and reuniting some with their families.
During the inspection, 12 people were present, including two minors. Six residents, including the minors, were placed under DSWD custody for appropriate intervention, while the remaining six will be monitored by the local government for possible reintegration with their families.
“The role of the department is not to discourage compassion-driven initiatives, but to make sure that every shelter operates within standards that protect the dignity, safety, and rights of clients. This is part of strengthening regulatory functions to ensure that well-meaning efforts do not result in unintended harm,” Dumlao said.
Medical assessments were conducted by the San Pedro City Health Office, and social workers completed comprehensive profiling of the residents to ensure proper case management. All individuals were formally transferred to social workers at receiving facilities to maintain continuity of care.
Following the assessment, the Standards Bureau issued a suspension order directing the shelter to stop operations until full compliance with licensing requirements.
“Regulation is essential in social welfare work because vulnerable individuals deserve services that meet minimum standards of care,” she added.