17 seniors rescued from 'unsafe, unsanitary' care facility in Bukidnon - DSWD

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said it rescued 17 senior citizens from an “unsafe and unsanitary” care facility in Maramag, Bukidnon.

In a statement on Wednesday, DSWD said the rescue operation was conducted on Saturday, October 11, after it was reported that the care facility posed a risk to the senior citizens’ health and well-being.

DSWD found that the care facility also lacks appropriate registration as a social welfare and development agency.

“Bukod sa walang kaukulang rehistro ay masalimuot at nasa delikadong kalagayan ang mga residente nito. Kaagad nagsagawa ng rescue operation ang mga kinauukulan upang matiyak ang kaligtasan ng mga kliyente,” DSWD co-spokesperson Juan Carlo Marquez said.

(Aside from the lack of proper registration, the residents were in a dire and dangerous situation. Authorities immediately conducted a rescue operation to ensure the safety of the clients.)

Based on DSWD’s inspection in February and April this year, the care facility violated safety standards, which include providing hygienic toilets and sleeping quarters.

It also lacked proper case management system, occupational safety standards, documentation of client-residents, and qualified caregivers.

The rescued seniors were brought to DSWD-managed facilities and local residential centers.

DSWD said it had provided technical assistance to the care facility on the needed documentation earlier this year.

Meanwhile, DSWD has issued a cease and desist order to two care facilities in Central Luzon for various violations. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News