• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) head Dr. Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga stated that they are coordinating with their counterpart department in Jolo, Sulu, regarding the Badjao community that has been the subject of multiple complaints from Bacolod residents.
In a media interview, Verdeprado-Mangga said that their counterpart in Jolo, Sulu assured them that they would implement a long-term solution for the Badjao community once they are returned to their place of origin.
“What we want is a long-term solution. Our next plan since we are gathering them is to return them,” Verdeprado-Mangga said.
Earlier this week, the anti-mendicancy task force of the DSSD rescued a total 17 Badjaos, and stated that it is alarming because many of the Badjao are accompanied by young children and infants, whose health is being checked following the rescue.
Verdeprado-Mangga clarified that the DSSD cannot detain the Badjao for an extended period, unless a formal complaint is filed against them, because they possess constitutional rights.
Five of the rescued Badjaos were eventually sent off via a Ceres Bus heading to Negros Oriental.
Last Tuesday, a member of the Badjao community was apprehended along Mabini Street, following complaints from Bacolod residents for allegedly spitting on and assaulting people who refuse to give him money.
According to Bacolod City Police Office Director PCol. Joeresty Coronica, the individual is considered notorious due to numerous prior complaints of spitting and attacking people when they fail to give alms or money.
Coronica stated that after the mandatory 12-hour reglementary period, the suspect had to be released because none of the victims or complainants filed a proper affidavit to pursue charges.
The City Legal Office is also offering free legal assistance and actively urging victims and complainants to formally file cases against Badjao individuals involved in acts of assault.
Some of the recently rescued Badjao individuals said that they are hesitant to leave Bacolod immediately, as they have not yet recouped the money they spent on transportation fares to the city.*
