SOCIAL Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian defended the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) from criticisms that it had been misled by Rose, known online as “Imburnal Girl,” following reports that she had allegedly resumed vices after receiving government aid.
In an interview, Gatchalian maintained that Rose had undergone proper assessment under the agency’s “Pag-abot’ program before she was extended assistance.
“First of all, hindi kami nabudol,” the DSWD chief said. “We have this running program called Pag-abot. Since 2023, when I joined the department, the President has made it clear that no Filipino family should be living on the streets.”
According to Gatchalian, the Pag-abot initiative involves more than 100 social workers who work around the clock to identify and engage with homeless individuals and families in Metro Manila.
“So no matter who you are, basta nakatira ka sa kalsada, lalapitan ka namin, kukumbinsihin ka namin [na] sumama sa amin,” he said.
Gatchalian also clarified that the ₱80,000 aid package provided to Rose was not given in full nor without supervision. The financial assistance was intended to help her set up a small store, with guidance from DSWD staff.
“Hindi one-time big-time ’yon. Pera, pero sasamahan ka namin para make sure do’n mapunta [sa sari-sari store],” he said.
The DSWD earlier drew public scrutiny after Rose went viral for emerging from a drainage canal and was later seen receiving groceries and financial aid from the agency. Critics questioned the move after photos surfaced online suggesting she may have resumed smoking and other vices.
But Gatchalian said the agency does not discriminate against the homeless or those who may be struggling with addiction.
“Social protection is about inclusion, not judgment,” he said. “We treat every case seriously, regardless of background.”