MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) clarified that the disclosure made by Rose, the woman recently photographed crawling out of a drainage canal in Makati City, regarding her occasional drug use was made during case interviews and is protected under client-social worker confidentiality protocols.

“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.

The department emphasized that Rose’s situation continues to be managed under the Pag-abot program, which focuses on assisting families and individuals in street situations (FISS) without discrimination.

Director Moral added that the effectiveness of the DSWD’s case management relies on the active cooperation between the client and the social worker.

“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,” she said.

Moral also underscored the agency’s view that drug use is a medical condition influenced by psychosocial factors, and that it should be addressed through holistic social case management guided by human rights and social justice principles.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian echoed this, expressing optimism in Rose’s potential for recovery and reintegration.

“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.

Gatchalian further noted that the department’s mission is not only to provide aid but also to help individuals regain hope and build better lives.

“DSWD’s social workers do not just give material assistance, they also restore hope,” he said.