ANGELES CITY—The local government unit (LGU) here has transferred 453 rescued individuals to mental care and rehabilitation facilities.

These individuals and families, Batang Solvent children, and members of the indigenous community around the city were rescued from the streets.

Of the 453 rescued individuals, 145 were transferred to different facilities to cater to their needs.

Some 36 mentally challenged individuals were turned over to the Shelter of Goodwill Health Services in Magalang, Pampanga.

Eighteen mentally challenged individuals were admitted to Metro Psych Facility in Pasig City.

Some four mentally challenged individuals were referred to St. Claire Psychiatric Homecare in Bacolor, Pampanga; 34 are now under the custody of Bahay Pag-Asa; 19 in Home for the Girls; and 34 in Balay Silangan.

Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin has urged the public to stop giving alms to mendicants from the streets.

Lazatin’s Chief Adviser IC Calaguas personally coordinated with Angeles City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (ACDRRMO) Rudy Simeon to transport the 58 mentally challenged individuals to the three partner psychiatric facilities of the city government.

Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel said the rescued mentally challenged individuals were tested clear for Covid-19 upon transfer, and were provided free hygiene kits, clothes, pillows, and blankets by the city government.