‘Drainage lady’ gets P80K aid from DSWD

May 30, 2025 , 08:12 PM

(May 30, 2025) – The woman who went viral after being photographed emerging from a drainage in Makati City has received P80,000 in livelihood assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to start a sari-sari store.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian approved the aid package after the agency confirmed the woman’s willingness and capability to manage a small business.

“She dreams of having a small business, and based on the assessment, she’s ready,” Gatchalian said.

The woman, whose identity was withheld to protect her privacy, is now helping DSWD social workers locate other individuals in street situations.

“She’s helping us convince others to come with us so we can provide them with the help they need,” Gatchalian said.

DSWD assistant secretary Irene Dumlao explained that after the viral photo circulated online, Gatchalian immediately ordered to locate the woman, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to reach and assist all indigent Filipinos.

“Secretary Gatchalian instructed us to find Rose right after her story went viral. This is in response to the President’s call to ensure that no one is left behind,” Dumlao said.

The woman initially declined help, but was eventually convinced by social workers to access government services.

With the agency’s support, the woman returned to the drainage area to try to convince her former street companions to seek help.

Gatchalian and the social workers located them in Osmeña Highway. One of them was a person with disability accompanied by his dogs. They were given food and temporary shelter.

The government estimates there are more than 10,000 families living on the streets in Metro Manila. As of May, over 5,000 individuals have been reached by the Oplan Pag-Abot initiative, which began in 2023.

“Hindi kami nandito para saktan ho kayo. Nandito kami para hikayatin kayo at dalhin kayo sa mas maayos na lugar,” Gatchalian said.

(With reports from Laila Pangilinan, News5)

(AGD)

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