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The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has ordered the closure of an unlicensed care facility in Barangay Landayan, San Pedro, Laguna run by vlogger Benjie Perillo, widely known as BenchTV.
In a statement released Friday, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the operation was carried out early Thursday by the agency’s Standards Bureau, working alongside the San Pedro City Social Welfare and Development Office, the DSWD field office in Calabarzon, barangay officials, and local police.
Authorities found that the shelter had been operating without a license while accommodating individuals rescued from the streets since 2020. A total of 12 people were staying at the facility at the time of the inspection, including two minors.
Six individuals, among them the two children, were placed under DSWD custody for proper intervention and placement, while the remaining six were turned over to the local government unit for close monitoring and immediate reintegration with their families.
“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,” Dumlao said.
The City Health Office conducted medical checks on the residents, while DSWD social workers carried out profiling to ensure appropriate case management. Beneficiaries were assisted by licensed social workers and formally endorsed to receiving facilities to ensure continuity of care.
Dumlao stressed the importance of regulation in social welfare work, saying, “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.”
During a dialogue with BenchTV, the Standards Bureau provided guidance on the licensing process, including the requirements for securing a Certificate of Registration and License to Operate. Following the assessment, a suspension order was issued directing the facility to cease operations until it fully complies with licensing rules.
“The DSWD continues to work with local government units (LGUs), civil society partners, and concerned individuals to ensure that all social welfare institutions operate legally and responsibly, while prioritizing the best interests of those in need,” Dumlao said.
“We also continue to strengthen our regulatory functions by conducting inspections on shelters operating without valid licenses in order to ensure the safety, protection, and welfare of vulnerable individuals,” she added.