Photo courtesy of Philippine News Agency (PNA).
The government supports individuals and groups who want to assist those in need, but care centers must comply with existing laws and regulations, the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said.
The statement followed the closure of an unlicensed care facility in Barangay Landayan, San Pedro, Laguna, owned by vlogger Benjie Perillo, also known as BenchTV.
DSWD conducted a site inspection on Thursday and found 12 people residing at the shelter. Authorities took custody of six individuals, including two minors, while continuing to assess the welfare of all residents.
The NCDA explained that licensing ensures that social work agencies and practitioners are officially regulated, recognized, and authorized to deliver professional and quality services to vulnerable populations.
The council also raised concerns about using residents—particularly those with mental health conditions—in social media content, noting that such exposure may violate the Data Privacy Act, the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, and other relevant laws.
It added that minors and individuals with mental health conditions may not be able to raise complaints about their circumstances or their exposure online.
DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said the government does not question the vlogger’s good intentions but emphasized that operating an unlicensed care facility is risky and potentially harmful, highlighting the importance of licensed and safe operations for all care centers.