Hontiveros eyes probe on QC orphanage's closure

The chairperson of the Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality is seeking an inquiry into the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) cease and desist order (CDO) against Gentle Hands Inc. (GHI), an orphanage in Quezon City.

Senator Risa Hontiveros filed proposed Senate Resolution 643 with the aim of reviewing the current government policies on orphanages and child residential care facilities and ensuring adherence to the best interests of the child.

“While the safety and adequacy of living standards are important concerns, it is also important to determine whether or not the correct processes were followed in the removal of the children from a childcare facility subject to a CDO, and whether or not these processes are informed by the best interests of the child doctrine,” Hontiveros wrote in her resolution.

The lawmaker mentioned in her resolution the statement of the GHI, claiming that the actions of the DSWD were “traumatizing” for the 149 children who were taken away from the childcare facility and “many of whom already suffer from the wounds of abandonment and abuse.”

"Many of these children also have specific needs, including some who require medical attention and psychosocial counseling," she added.

Last week, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said the CDO has been issued against the orphanage for various reasons, including overcapacity, fire hazards and hygiene concerns.

Gatchalian also said the facility's hygiene was "not to the standards of the Department."

The DSWD had said it is willing to return the children to Gentle Hands orphanage in Quezon City if it complies with the guidelines and addresses its alleged violations. —VAL, GMA Integrated News