True to its commitment to provide the public with relevant information, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) engaged in an online consultation dialogue with the Facebook-Meta in November to discuss possible advocacy partnership on public solicitation.

Facebook-Meta is a leading social media platform, and is seen as a strong channel to raise awareness and provide the right information on DSWD’s issuance of solicitation permit.

It can be recalled that the issue on public solicitation has often been misunderstood and misinterpreted especially during times of calamities. As mandated by Presidential Decree No. 1564 or the Solicitation Permit Law, the DSWD, through its Standards Bureau, has the authority to issue or disapprove application for solicitation permit/s to any person, corporation, organization or association desiring to solicit or receive contributions for public welfare purposes.

The law was created with the sole aim of ensuring that solicited resources are received by intended recipients.

During the meeting, the DSWD presented a situationer on public solicitations done without permit, highlighting those done through social media app.

Facebook-Meta stated that they could provide free session training on how to maximize the social media platform as a tool for the Department’s awareness-raising campaign.

With the goal to counter misinformation and fake news, the Department aims to continue its strengthened communication efforts by exploring partnerships with experts and engaging the public for feedback. ###