Father and daughter begging at LRT: Real or fake?

MANILA, Philippines – A photo shared on Facebook of a father and his sick daughter has gone viral, with many netizens appealing for authorities and even media to extend assistance to the pair. But netizens were also quick to express doubt: could this be a swindle? 

On July 3, Joel Madridano posted pictures on Facebook of a father and his sick daughter begging near the entrance to the Gil Puyat LRT station. 

According to Madridano, the daughter – reportedly named ‘Samantha’ – is allegedly suffering from kidney failure. The picture posted shows ‘Samantha’ wearing a face mask, helplessly lying in the arms of her father. Madridano called on media networks, politicians, and netizens to help. 

The post quickly became viral and has surpassed 98,000 shares as of writing. 

Rappler wanted to get the story of the father and see what assistance he needed. 

Rappler located Samantha and her father in the walkway along the EDSA-Taft LRT station on July 7, Tuesday. The father told Rappler that he is aware that the post has become viral on social media; but declined to be interviewed further. He also asked that no photos be taken of the girl because “she was still studying.” 

LRT security later forced him out of his spot to clear the way for pedestrians. The father immediately packed what little possessions he had lying around and scurried down the steps of the station, carrying his daughter.

Real or fake? 

LRT security guards told Rappler they see the father and the daughter in different places along the MRT line, but they are most often seen at LRT Taft-EDSA Station.

Glenn Buenaventura, who has worked as a security guard in LRT’s Taft-EDSA station for 4 years, said that he started seeing the two beg for money near the station around 2 years ago. Since then, he has seen them on a regular basis. He also claims that the father uses the money he collects to buy illegal substances. Rappler was not able to verify Buenaventura’s claims. 

A Facebook page called Trending Pinoy Videos shared Madridano’s post on July 6, but updated it on July 8 saying “Meron po tayong impormasyon nasagap na ito ay isang scam o isang modus lamang.” (We have received information that this is a scam or a modus.)  

The post disclosed that the two reportedly lived in Astrotel, a motel located in Monumento, and cautioned donors to think before giving money to the father.

Government response

According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), this type of solicitation is illegal as stated in the Public Solicitation Law. A solicitation permit is required for anyone seeking to publicly solicit money. 

The DSWD said they are currently investigating the case to determine the real condition of the young girl. – Rappler.com

If you see ‘Samantha’ and her father or can provide any additional information on the pair, you may contact the DSWD at 931-7916 or 931-8068 or email: move.ph@rappler.com. 

Kyle Chua and Soeui Lee are Rappler interns.