The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has ordered the closure of the New Life Baptist Church of Mexico, Pampanga, Incorporated.

During a routine inspection, several children approached DSWD officials to complain about alleged inhumane treatment under the facility’s care.

“The children reported to our personnel that they were being hurt and locked up whenever they made mistakes. They also said they were not being given proper food (Iyong mga bata ay nagsumbong sa ating mga personnel, sinasabi na sila ay nasasaktan at ikinukulong kapag may mga hindi nagagawa nang tama. Sila ay hindi rin pinapakain ng maayos),” DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said Friday in an interview.

The children also reported verbal abuse and instances of being chained to prevent escape. “They were being tied up with a chain allegedly used for a dog. There were also other complaints of verbal abuse (Iginagapos, may chain na ginamit daw parang sa aso. May iba pang sumbong na verbal abuse),” Dumlao added.

After a thorough investigation, the DSWD issued a cease-and-desist order, and the head of the facility was arrested. The children and other residents under its care were also taken into the agency’s custody.

Following the arrest, authorities discovered additional violations, including overcrowding — with 160 residents compared to the 130 reported.

The New Life Baptist Church has been licensed to operate only since 2022.