Bacolod sends 19 Badjao home amid anti-mendicancy drive

BACOLOD CITY — Nineteen Badjao individuals, including seven minors, were safely sent back to their hometown in Jolo, Sulu on October 27, 2025, as part of Bacolod City’s intensified anti-mendicancy campaign.

The repatriation was led by the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD)–Anti-Mendicancy Task Force, with full support from various local government offices.

The group had been rescued during coordinated anti-mendicancy operations across key city areas on October 11, 2025.

Two of the individuals were earlier identified in a viral video where one, Den-Den Mareta, was seen spitting and attempting to kick a jeepney passenger who refused to give money.

Mareta was later apprehended following Mayor Greg Gasataya’s directive to boost inter-agency surveillance and rescue efforts.

Although the city offered free legal assistance, no formal complaint was filed, and Mareta was released after issuing a public apology and expressing regret.

“I am sorry. I got angry and carried away because I was scared of not having anything to eat. I have no one here to turn to,” Mareta said, adding he hoped to return to his daughter in Jolo, Sulu.

DSSD–Anti-Mendicancy Task Force program coordinator Anjanette Servano said the group was personally escorted home by city personnel to ensure safe reintegration.

“We won’t allow such activities to continue. Upon the directive of Mayor Greg, we are making sure that they are safely returned to their homes,” Servano said.

She also reminded the public not to give money to mendicants, which is prohibited under a city ordinance.

City Administrator Atty. Mark Mayo noted that the local government is reviewing City Ordinance No. 146, Series of 1995, to enforce a more balanced strategy addressing mendicancy.

“As much as possible, we will exhaust all legal and appropriate measures to ensure they won’t go back. We are serious about protecting the public from harassment and abuse,” Mayo said.

Before their departure, the DSSD provided psychosocial interventions for the minors and other vulnerable members of the group.

The individuals were earlier found in high-traffic areas including Lopue’s East, Burgos Public Market, Shopping–La Salle, Ramos Street, both city terminals, Lacson Street, Libertad, City Heights, Bangga Cory, BREDCO Port, Bacolod Public Plaza, and 888 Chinatown Square.

The operation was conducted in coordination with the Bacolod City Police Office, City Legal Office, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, City Administrator’s Office, City Mayor’s Office, Office of Councilor Israel Salanga, Public Order and Safety Office, and City Health Office. (BCCO PR)