The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) plans to open satellite offices in Metro Manila to accommodate Filipinos in need of assistance, Secretary Rex Gatchalian said on Friday.
In an interview with DZRH Dos Por Dos, Gatchalian mentioned that the decision was made during his meeting with the Regional Directors to resolve the influx of people in the DSWD Central Office at Batasan Complex, Quezon City.
"Ang sabi ko sa kanila, 'Di naman natin pwedeng pag-adjust-in ang tao, kundi tayo ang maga-adjust kasi tayo ang nagdedeliver ng service," Gatchalian said recalling their discussion.
"Ang naging resolusyon namin ng mga Regional Director, lalo na rito sa Manila, maglabas ng maraming satellite offices ng DSWD," he added.
He mentioned possible locations for additional offices, including Caloocan for people coming from CAMANAVA areas, Eastern Manila for Pasig City, San Juan City, Mandaluyong City, and Marikina City.
"Kung saan ka nakatira, doon ka na lang pumunta para hindi sila nahihirapang lumapit at lumuwas, tayo [DSWD] ang lalapit sa kanila," said the secretary.
Gatchalian ordered Regional Directors to coordinate with local government units (LGU) to access additional facilities.
The agency estimated that around 700 people will line up, with most of them processing documents and pay-out for medical and burial assistance.
