DSWD XI addresses alleged communist indoctrination in Davao de Oro evac centers

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI Regional Director Atty. Vanessa B. Goc-ong discussed the ongoing efforts of the Department in mitigating potential communist indoctrinations by some leftist organizations disguised as charitable institutions visiting the evacuation centers in Davao de Oro. These evacuation centers house victims of the recent Masara landslide incident. She stated this during the Kapehan sa Dabaw on March 04, 2024, at SM City Davao.

Highlighting the necessity to safeguard evacuees from potential indoctrination by communist organizations, DSWD XI has implemented rigorous monitoring measures over camp managers to ensure the integrity of psychosocial intervention activities given by volunteers from charitable and private organizations.

“Atong ginapaigting ang (We are strengthening the) monitoring measures in the camps through proper camp coordination and management to avoid these unpleasant advocacies from entering the camp,” stated Atty. Goc-ong.

One of the primary objectives of camp management is to guarantee the protection and well-being of women and children, shielding them from all forms of violence and exploitation while residing in the camps.

“We closely supervise camp managers’ activities to address families’ psychosocial needs. These interventions should be both therapeutic and educational, tailored to their specific requirements, while ensuring the environment remains child-friendly and safe from any form of exploitation,” added Atty. Goc-ong.

Camp managers have collaborated with various faith-based organizations to address evacuees’ psychosocial needs.

“We have engaged with faith-based organizations for values formation and spiritual enhancement, with thorough vetting and screening processes in place to ensure the integrity of these activities,” she further elaborated.

Furthermore, DSWD XI, in coordination with local government units (LGUs), is currently relocating evacuees from overcrowded evacuation centers to tent cities in Brgy. Elizalde, Maco, Davao de Oro. Emergency cash assistance is also being provided to assist families in procuring essential needs beyond food supplies.

DSWD XI remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring the safety, well-being, and dignity of all evacuees, steadfastly standing against any attempts at exploitation or indoctrination. Through vigilant monitoring, strategic partnerships, and decisive action, the department continues to uphold its duty to serve and protect the most vulnerable members of society, even in crisis. (DSWD FO XI/Ezri M. Coda Jr.)