The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has urged all local governments in Metro Manila “to ensure the welfare and health of families and individuals in homeless street situations.”

Out of 4.5 million homeless people in the country, three million of them live within Metro Manila which is now under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), the CHR said through Spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia.

This marginalized sector faces greater risks of infection against the Delta variant of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) because they often face discrimination in accessing social and health services, including vaccines, De Guia pointed out.

"There is also a perception among them that they have no right to access vaccines given their lack of facility and/or could not register in any barangay which they are not a bona fide resident," she said.

De Guia said the CHR recommended that all concerned local government units (LGUs) immediately focus on these homeless individuals and families and provide them with adequate shelter that is compliant with health protocols.

In the absence of shelters, she said, the CHR suggested the non-destruction of semi-permanent structures that the homeless consider as their temporary shelters or homes. She also suggested that LGUs should not confiscate their properties and belongings during road clearing operations.

At the same time, the CHR hopes that LGUs would consider these individuals as eligible beneficiaries of the social amelioration program (SAP), or any form of financial aid, despite not being included in the list of residents in a barangay.

De Guia said they should likewise be assisted in the registration for securing an appointment for vaccination.

"Due to their urgent and unique situation, a separate and adequate program or mechanism for this marginalized group may be necessary in each LGU. This is to ensure that no one is left behind so we may truly heal and recover as one and work together towards a better normal,” she added.