THE Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) in Bacolod is intensifying its operation to reach out to the Badjaos loitering around the city.

Social Worker Officer IV Sally Abelarde said yesterday the anti-mendicancy task force is preparing the plan that will facilitate the return of the Badjaos to their hometown in Mindanao before the MassKara Festival.

She said the Badjaos are monitoring the festivals of various places, where they ask for alms, and after three weeks they will transfer to another city or municipality.

Several Badjaos are staying in the areas of Lacson Street, Rizal Street, and downtown area asking for alms from jeepney passengers or private vehicle owners.

Abelarde said the anti-mendicancy task force is monitoring the Badjaos during night time as there are those sleeping on the streets.

The Badjaos will be brought to the Social Development Center (SDC).

Abelarde said the task force will review the anti-mendicancy ordinance to increase the penalty of the violators.

The anti-mendicancy law forbids begging or soliciting of charitable donations by the poor or religious organizations in the streets.

Pacita Tero, head of DSSD, had earlier urged the public not to give alms to Badjaos to stop them from loitering around.

“Bacoleños are generous, but we should not tolerate them. If we will not give them alms, they will not stay here and will return to their hometown," she said.