QUEZON CITY -- As part of its effort to institutionalize the digitalization among various agency’s operations, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has shifted to online processing of national and regional solicitation permits in consideration of limited face-to-face interactions and liberal use of digital platforms in the solicitation activities, amid the pandemic.

A solicitation permit is a certification issued by the DSWD and local government that authorizes individuals, groups, and other entities to solicit donations or voluntary contributions for charitable or public welfare purposes to prevent any illegal fund drive that exploits the generosity of the donors and intended beneficiaries.

Pursuant to the DSWD Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 5 series of 2021, applications for solicitation permits through the official email addresses of DSWD Central/Field Offices or via mail or courier, are now accepted. Meanwhile, walk-in or physical submission of complete application documents will still be accepted.

Moreover, individuals, groups, corporations, organizations, associations, government agencies, and other entities can also request for a temporary solicitation permit during a state of emergency or calamity, through fast-lane processing. The temporary permit has a maximum validity period of three months for a regional permit and up to six months validity period for a national permit.

Likewise, under MC 5, solicitation permits for the activities to be conducted online, on digital platforms, or social media may also be granted to the eligible entities. The validity period will be based on the submitted project proposal, not exceeding one year for a regular permit, and six months for a temporary permit.

Processing fees for both regional and national solicitation permits during a state of emergency or calamity shall be waived in favor of the applicants.

Under Presidential Decree No. 1564 of 1978 or the Solicitation Permit Law, the DSWD is authorized to regulate the solicitation of donations or receiving of contributions for charitable or public welfare purposes. (DSWD)