The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1 has warned the public against operating unlicensed shelter facilities and conducting fundraising activities without the required permits.
The advisory followed the transfer of several individuals from an unregistered shelter facility in Malasiqui that was reportedly being managed by a vlogger, known online as Daddy Frankie Official.
Anniely Ferrer, DSWD Field Office 1 Assistant Regional Director for Operations, said the agency welcomes individuals and organizations that wish to provide assistance, but emphasized that they must comply with registration, licensing, and accreditation requirements for Social Welfare and Development Agencies (SWDAs), including securing a permit for public solicitation.
She explained that solicitation permits are necessary to ensure that fundraising activities are legitimate and to protect donors and beneficiaries from fraudulent or unauthorized operations.
Under DSWD Memorandum Circular No. 18, Series of 2024, organizations operating shelter facilities are required to follow the Omnibus Guidelines on the Regulation of Social Welfare and Development Agencies in order to operate legally.
The facility in question was reportedly first monitored online on February 9, 2026, before DSWD conducted an on-site inspection on March 25. The investigation found several violations, including operating without a license and conducting unauthorized public solicitation.
The agency has issued a notice of violation and is providing technical assistance to the operator regarding the process of securing a Certificate of Registration and License to Operate.
DSWD has also coordinated with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Offices of Malasiqui and Paniqui, Tarlac to ensure the welfare of the individuals housed in the facility. Three of the clients were temporarily transferred to a DSWD-managed center in the region.-Ahikam Pasion