(PNA file image)
MANILA – Fifty-six street dwellers were rescued during a nine-hour “Oplan Pag-Abot” operation conducted by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Manila between Thursday and Friday.
The 56 individuals, including children and elderly, were picked up in the Malate tourist area and along the stretch of Roxas Boulevard.
The operation was conducted between 9 p.m on Thursday until 6 a.m. Friday, according to a DSWD news release.
“They were immediately brought to the processing centers located at the Barangay 721 Dakota Covered Court in Malate for biometrics registration and initial intake interview,” DSWD Assistant Secretary for Strategic Communications Romel Lopez said.
Some were referred to the local government units of Manila, Caloocan, Navotas and Pasay City in Metro Manila; Sta. Maria in Bulacan; and DSWD Field Office - National Capital Region.
Those who need special care, specifically the elderly, were referred to DSWD-run centers and residential care facilities such as Bahay Silungan, Golden Reception and Action Center for the Elderly and Other Special Cases and the Haven for Children for temporary custody and shelter.
During the operation, the teams were assisted by the City of Manila’s Department of Social Welfare and City Health Office, Philippine Statistics Authority, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and Philippine National Police - Tactical Motorcycle Unit. (PNA)
