The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) clarified on Thursday that organized groups planning to conduct Christmas caroling for fundraising purposes this holiday season must secure a solicitation permit from the agency to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Meanwhile, children caroling within barangays should be guided by their parents and barangay officials.
In an interview on Magandang Umaga Pilipinas, DSWD Spokesperson ASec. Irene Dumlao encouraged the public to report children in street situations so the DSWD could conduct outreach activities to remove them from unsafe environments.
The DSWD's guidelines aligned with the agency’s Oplan Pag-abot program, seeks to safeguard children and uphold safety during caroling activities.
“Lagi nating sinasabi na yung mga bata, ilayo natin sa kapahamakan, lalong-lalo na kapag nasa lansangan doon sila nagsasagawa ng ganitong activities,” Dumlao noted.
Guidelines for organized groups
For organizations conducting fundraising through Christmas caroling, Dumlao outlined several requirements for the issuance of a national solicitation permit to ensure the legitimacy of their activities. These include:
- Certified True Copy of the group’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Registration,
- List of current governing board members,
- An approved resolution authorizing the conduct of a fundraising campaign,
- A certified list of agents conducting solicitations, and
- A written commitment to take full responsibility for all funds collected.
Dumlao also added that for locally organized events, permits can be processed through the respective Local Government Units (LGUs).
Caroling in Barangays and street situations
For informal youth groups engaging in traditional caroling within their barangays, Dumlao stressed the importance of parental supervision and guidance from barangay officials. Contrary to misconceptions, no formal permit is required for children caroling in their communities.
“Ang kinakailangan lang naman diyan ay mabantayan rin ng mga magulang. Dapat po mayroong guidance na ibinibigay ng barangay officials,” she said.
Dumlao also urged the public to report instances of children caroling on the streets, as this poses risks to their safety. The DSWD will conduct outreach activities to help remove these children from dangerous situations.
Prioritizing safety while preserving tradition
Dumlao assured the public that the DSWD supports the continuation of Christmas traditions but is prioritizing the safety and welfare of children and communities.
“Of course, we don't want to kill the Christmas spirit among children. Ang mahalaga lang ay nababantayan po sila,” she emphasized.
The DSWD calls on families, organizations, and local officials to work together in ensuring a safe and meaningful celebration of the holiday season while maintaining compliance with safety protocols.
