Baguio strengthens anti-mendicancy programs for holidays

BAGUIO CITY – Ahead of the Christmas season, the Baguio City Anti-Mendicancy Task Force, reorganized under Executive Order No. 166, series of 2025, is stepping up programs to assist street dwellers while maintaining public safety.

The task force operates under Ordinance No. 44, series of 2023 and Presidential Decree No. 1563, which provide legal authority for rehabilitation, monitoring, and enforcement.

Project CARES (Community-driven, Action-oriented, Responsible, and Environmental Sustainability) consolidates interventions for mendicants, focusing on reintegration, empowerment, temporary shelter, psychological first aid, counseling, livelihood programs, medical support, and referrals to partner organizations.

Recent BCPO operations addressed elderly mendicants in the city’s central business district, escorting them either home or to bus terminals.

Mayor Benjamin Magalong urged families to assume primary responsibility for elderly members and reminded the public not to give alms, as violators of PD 1563 may face fines or imprisonment.

Residents and tourists can report mendicants for rescue or support through:

• • CSWDO: 0967-208-4777 / 0951-750-5039 / (074) 422-6056
  • Mental Health Unit: 0919-069-6361
  • BCPO: 0998-598-7739
  • Emergency: 911

The task force’s efforts aim to balance rehabilitation for mendicants with a safe, orderly environment for residents and visitors, ensuring compassion, compliance, and community support during the holiday season.