Simply Share exec: ‘Our conscience is clear’

Local

THE nonprofit organization founded by gubernatorial candidate Pamela Baricuatro has denied allegations of illegal solicitation. The organization clarified that the donation drive in question, which occurred after Typhoon Odette, was not initiated by them.

In an official statement dated Monday, April 7, 2025, Simply Share Foundation Inc. (SSFI) Executive Director Dr. Elisse Nicole Catalan stated that the donation drive was not organized by the foundation.

She emphasized that the drive took place following the devastation of Typhoon Odette.

Catalan explained that the initiative came from Bea Gomez, then a volunteer and reigning Miss Universe Philippines, who was based in Manila during the typhoon.

“She did so out of compassion, initiative, and a sense of civic duty. Simply Share Foundation, grounded on the ground in Cebu, merely served as the conduit and action arm to distribute aid directly to those in need,” she said.

Catalan added that SSFI held valid registrations during that time, citing SEC Registration No. CN201534177 and DSWD Registration No. DSWD-FO7-R-001-2021.

“We find it troubling that it is only Simply Share Foundation that is now being questioned,” she said, noting that many civic groups and private individuals also mobilized relief efforts without permits during the same crisis.

She also pointed out that the actions being scrutinized were undertaken by the foundation, not as personal decisions of Baricuatro, who was then its executive director.

“To isolate and pursue her for decisions made in line with her organizational function is not only unjust, it is misdirected,” she said.

Catalan maintained that SSFI is open to investigation but urged authorities to conduct it outside the election period.

“If the true intent is to uncover the facts, let the elections conclude first. Only then can any process be fair, objective, and free from political influence,” she said.

“Our conscience is clear. Our records are open. Our commitment to service remains steadfast,” Catalan concluded.

The statement comes after the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Central Visayas (DSWD-7) confirmed that SSFI lacked a solicitation permit when it accepted donations in 2021 and early 2022.

A certification issued by DSWD-7 on March 25, 2025, stated that the foundation only obtained its License to Operate in January 2025.

DSWD Standards Bureau Director Atty. Megan Manahan earlier said the agency is building a case and sees possible criminal and administrative liability.

Under Presidential Decree 1564, fundraising without a permit is punishable by up to one year imprisonment or a fine.

The controversy began after governor brother's Byron Garcia posted on Facebook that SSFI received a P1 million donation from the Philippine Navy despite not having a valid solicitation permit at the time.

Additional screenshots also showed the foundation accepting donations via Baricuatro’s personal GCash and the foundation’s BPI account.(MyTVCebu)