MANILA, Philippines — More than 500 indigenous individuals begging on the streets this Christmas holiday were rescued by authorities following various operations that were conducted around Metro Manila. According to the data of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), a total of 535 indigenous minors and adults were rescued during a five-day rescue operation. ADVERTISEMENTNCRPO Chief Director Guillermo Eleazar noted that the said number came from the operations conducted last December 11 until 5 a.m. of December 16. The rescued individuals were then transferred to the Department of Social Welfare and Development for proper protection, Eleazar said. The Eastern Police District tallied 16 beggars while the Northern Police District recorded the lowest numbers of beggars rescued with only three.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer December 16, 2018 09:22 UTC