The Department of Social Welfare and Development, together with the City Social Welfare and Development Office of San Pedro and local government authorities, conducted an operation against an unlicensed shelter owned and managed by vlogger Benjie Perillo, also known as Bench TV, in Barangay Landayan, San Pedro, Laguna.

Based on the initial investigation by the DSWD Standards Bureau, Bench TV has been rescuing individuals living on the streets since 2020 and reuniting some of them with their families.

During the operation on Thursday, 29 January, authorities found a total of 12 individuals staying at the shelter, two of whom were minors.

The DSWD said six individuals, including the two minors, were taken into its custody for appropriate intervention and placement. The remaining six individuals will be placed under close monitoring by the local government unit for possible reintegration with their families.

In a social media post, Bench TV said their intention was to help displaced individuals and questioned the requirement of securing a permit before providing assistance.

“Tama paba yung ganito nagawa kami ng mabuti pero sa batas mali permit muna bago tumulong ! Bawal din kami mag rescue dahil ndi daw pwede na mag rescue na wla kaming permit nais lang namin tumulong sa puso namin yun pero kayu trabaho lang !” he wrote.

“Oo natulong kami kasama ang social media pero malaking bagay to para mapadali ang pag hahanap ng pamilya nila !! Napaka dami nyo pang kasama na pumunta dito na parang my nagawa kaming kasalanan !” he added.

During a dialogue with Bench TV, the DSWD Standards Bureau provided technical assistance on the licensing process, including the requirements and procedures for securing a Certificate of Registration and License to Operate, as well as the forms of support available to organizations seeking compliance.

Following the assessment, the Standards Bureau issued a suspension order directing Bench TV to stop shelter operations until full compliance with licensing requirements is achieved.

“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,” said DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, the agency’s spokesperson, on Friday.

The DSWD said the San Pedro City Health Office conducted medical assessments of the individuals, focusing on vital signs, while social workers carried out comprehensive profiling for proper case management.

All rescued individuals were assisted by licensed DSWD social workers and formally endorsed to social workers of the receiving care facilities to ensure continuity of care.

“Regulation is essential in social welfare work because vulnerable individuals deserve services that meet minimum standards of care. The Department will continue engaging unlicensed shelters, providing guidance while taking necessary action to uphold child protection and social welfare laws,” Dumlao said.