The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has conducted a home visit to a person with autism disorder who was reportedly physically abused inside a public utility bus, the agency said Sunday.

Acting on the instructions of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU) from the agency’s Central Office visited the victim’s residence in San Jose del Monte City to assess his condition.

An initial report indicated that a social worker from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of San Jose del Monte had already assisted the victim, who received a medical checkup at Grace Medical Center.

The DSWD said it is coordinating with the local government unit (LGU) of San Jose del Monte for additional possible interventions.

"We are looking into the possibility of referring the victim's family for psychosocial support under the Wireless Mental Health and Psychosocial Support or WiSupport program and the provision of financial assistance," Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao, who is the DSWD spokesperson, said on Sunday (June 15).

The WiSupport program offers holistic services to clients in crisis, particularly those experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.

Dumlao added that therapy for the victim—which was previously discontinued due to financial constraints—will be prioritized.

"During the home visitation, we also found out that the main source of his family’s livelihood is selling corn. This is not enough to support the victim's therapy. We are now facilitating referral services to medical institutions or partner service providers to help the victim to continue his sessions," the DSWD spokesperson pointed out.

While the immediate welfare of the victim remains the department's priority, the agency also said it would explore ways to support the family in filing a criminal case related to the incident.

The DSWD, in coordination with the LGU of San Jose del Monte, will continue to provide further interventions for the victim and his family, based on ongoing assessments.