BACOLOD CITY, Oct. 13 -- The city government here is initiating a reunification program for mendicant Badjaos in a move to facilitate their safe return to their places of origin, particularly in Mindanao.

Data on Monday showed an inter-agency operation over the weekend rounded up 19 Badjao people, including nine from a Badjao community -- seven adults and two minors; seven minors classified as children-at-risk; two elderly persons with disabilities; and one individual with signs of mental illness.

The Badjaos were found at Bacolod Public Plaza and near the Bacolod Real Estate Development Corp. port at the Reclamation Area.

They were brought to the Bacolod Arts and Youth Sports Center, where they were assessed, profile and underwent ori...