The Manila Department of Social Welfare (MDSW) admitted that they are experiencing challenges in taking care of mentally ill individuals housed at the Delpan Evacuation Center.

In a phone interview with RH reporter Boy Gonzales, MDSW Director Re Fugoso confirmed the authenticity of the viral video circulating online, which shows the poor condition of mentally challenged individuals inside the facility that serves as their temporary shelter.

"Sa totoo lang, mahirap mag-alaga ng mentally ill. Hindi ko kayang madala sa Boys' Town kasi baka mamaya may masaktan o ano. 'Yan pong Delpan Evacuation Center ay temporary shelter lang. Doon lang pinaprocess, hahanapin ang pamilya, kung wala, dadalhin sa Boys' Town," Fugoso explained.

The social welfare director said there are approximately 150 individuals staying at the facility, with around 100 of them experiencing mental health conditions. Fugoso admitted that providing adequate care for all of them remains a significant challenge.

"Ang mga taong 'yon ay naghihintay na lang na maligo sila. Tapos 'yung parang nakaluhod na gumagapang, parang naghihintay lang siya maligo. Hindi ko masabi. Pero madami doon, mentally ill," said Fugoso.

"Kahit naman bihisan namin, talagang naghuhubad sila. Hindi naman pwedeng one is to one. Dahil sa aming limited resources, hindi ko kayang bantayan sila isa-isa. Pero sinisiguro ko sa inyo na mahirap mag-alaga ng mentally ill," she furthered.

Fugoso further explained that they have already approached several agencies to ask for additional assistance, but have not received any. However, they are still able to provide food and shelter to the individuals in their care.

She also stressed that taking videos inside the facility is strictly prohibited.

"Actually, bawal nga kumuha ng video d'yan e. Pero okay na lang, baka sabihin may tinatago pa 'ko e," she said.

Fugoso said she is ready to face any complaints that may be filed against her or the agency.