DSWD ensures children’s safety amid CDO against QC orphanage
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) assured the public that the welfare of the children is a priority.
Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian made the statement after a cease-and-desist order was issued against Gentle Hands Inc. (GHI), Quezon City-based orphanage, due to several violations.
Gatchalian said several deficiencies and violations by GHI were noted during a spot inspection of the orphanage conducted by the DSWD chief along with other officials and social workers on May 20.
“These are the things that I find as imminent dangers to the child’s well-being. One, overcrowding. The facility is only created for 80 individuals but there are around 149. Two, hygiene… Pangatlo, the ventilation is an issue kasi overcrowded nga. Four, more importantly… the fire safety issue… Five and interestingly, they are operating two small classrooms… Also, not that they know of, they are doing the modules by themselves without DepEd’s sanctions,” Gatchalian pointed out.
In an earlier statement, the DSWD reported that it issued a CDO against GHI following a complaint that the private orphanage has committed a violation of Republic Act No. 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination and has failed to comply with the minimum standards for residential facilities for children.
