The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Philippines has reiterated the importance of securing a solicitation permit before conducting any fundraising activities for charitable or public welfare purposes.
Key Points from the DSWD’s Reminder

• Legal Basis: Under Presidential Decree No. 1564, also known as the Solicitation Permit Law, the DSWD has exclusive authority to regulate donation solicitations to prevent fraud and ensure transparency.
• Who Needs a Permit: Individuals, groups, and organizations—including NGOs and civil society groups—must obtain a permit before collecting donations.
• Application Process:
  • Submit to the DSWD Field Office with jurisdiction over the area of solicitation.
  • Include documents like SEC registration, sample tickets/receipts, and endorsements from local officials.
  • Pay a filing fee (₱300), with partial refund if disapproved.
• Monitoring and Compliance:
  • Groups must submit a distribution plan and reportorial requirements after the permit expires.
  • Non-compliance may result in blacklisting or denial of renewal.
• HELPS Portal: The new Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS) streamlines the process, allowing faster approval—3 days for temporary permits, 7 days for regular ones.

This move is part of DSWD’s effort to protect public trust and ensure that funds raised genuinely benefit intended communities.
You can find more details on DSWD’s official site.