DSWD: Drug use confession of woman in viral sewer photo is confidential

June 8, 2025 , 09:15 PM

By Gabriel Kim Leal

(June 8, 2025) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Sunday confirmed that the woman seen in a viral photo emerging from a drainage in Makati City had admitted to occasional drug use during an interview with social workers.

DSWD officials made the confirmation after an interview of the woman —identified only as “Rose” — with vlogger Boss Toyo made the rounds on social media. In the same interview, Rose admitted to the substance use.

The DSWD said the same information which surfaced during the vlog interview was shared in confidence and is protected under client-social worker confidentiality. It assured the public that the necessary interventions are already underway.

“Our social workers for Pag-abot program who interviewed Rose learned of her occasional use of illegal substance and as part of the conditions, she will undergo rehabilitation and make sure that appropriate interventions are applied,” said Director Marilyn Moral of the DSWD’s Pag-abot program.

She noted that DSWD’s outreach efforts — especially for individuals and families living on the streets — are rooted in compassion, not judgment.

“Our social workers handling the case management will see to it that there will be positive change in the lives of Rose and her partner so that they become productive members of the community ready for reintegration after the appropriate interventions,” added Moral.

The woman caught the public’s attention after a Facebook user named RoughMasterpiecei posted a photo of her crawling out of a drainage. The image quickly went viral, sparking concern and criticism online.

According to the DSWD, she earns about P300 a day by collecting recyclables with her partner, who works as a barker.

After the photo spread, social workers tracked down Rose and offered her assistance through the Pag-abot Program, a project launched in 2023 to support people living in street situations. The aid included an P80,000 livelihood assistance which will be given in tranches. To date, the program has helped around 3,000 individuals, according to the department.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said the department remains committed to helping Rose and others like her rebuild their lives.

“We, in the DSWD, are confident that with all the appropriate interventions, a better Rose will emerge — a Rose whose dignity and self-worth are restored; ready and able to become a productive member of society,” said Gatchalian.

(AGD)

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