A homeless woman in Makati City, who was given P80,000 in assistance by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to start a “sari-sari store,” is now set to undergo drug rehabilitation, the agency confirmed on Monday, June 9.

“Rose,” who was previously photographed crawling out of a drainage canal, disclosed her occasional drug use during interviews with DSWD social workers as part of the agency’s “Pag-Abot Program.”

“Our social workers for Pag-Abot Program knew of Rose’s occasional use of illegal substance and as part of the conditions, she will undergo rehabilitation,” Pag-Abot Program Director Marlyn Moral said.

She explained that the program does not discriminate against individuals in street situations and that rehabilitation is part of the holistic approach to help Rose and her partner reintegrate into society as productive members of the community.

“Our social workers in partnership with other duty bearers 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 necessary interventions,” she said.

Moral also stressed that drug use is a medical issue with psychosocial causes and effects, which can be addressed through holistic social case management with full respect for human rights and social justice.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian reiterated the agency’s commitment to restoring dignity and self-worth among its clients through comprehensive interventions.

“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,” he said.

“DSWD’s social workers do not just give material assistance. They enable clients to have better self-concept despite their negative experiences and restore hope,” he added.