LEGAZPI CITY, Albay (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Bicol recently celebrated its 73rd anniversary in a thanksgiving ceremony that highlighted the crucial role of its partners and stakeholders in promoting their services, programs and activities.

Its theme "DSWD Angels in Red Vest: Empathy in Action, Integrity in Service, Unity in Community” honored the strong partnerships that DSWD Bicol had forged with local government units (LGUs), private organizations, other line agencies, and DSWD's internal units.

These partnerships enabled DSWD Bicol to provide excellent service to the public during challenging times such as the eruption of Mayon volcano, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other disasters that had a significant impact on communities and marginalized groups in the region in recent years..

In his speech, DSWD Regional Director Norman Laurio emphasized that addressing poverty in Bicol is not solely the responsibility of the DSWD.

Laurio stressed the importance of coming together as a community to truly understand the situation and conditions of the people in need.

“Ang trabaho na ito does not only rest sa DSWD, hindi natin maso-solve at matutugunan ang kahirapan dito sa Bicol kung hindi tayo magsama-sama – hindi po natin mararamdaman ang tunay na sitwasyon at kalagayan ng ating mga kababayan,” he said. 

(Translation: This work does not only rest with the DSWD, we will not be able to solve and address the poverty here in Bicol if we do not come together – we will not be able to feel the true situation and condition of our compatriots.)

Sorsogon City Mayor Ester Hamor was recognized for her leadership and support in the implementation of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, as well as her city's attainment of the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance for 2021 and 2022.

Expressing her gratitude, Hamor acknowledged the efforts of her colleagues at work, stating that their support has helped her achieve her dreams. 

"Ang saya-saya ko at lahat ng aking mga minimithi ay natutupad na. Isa sa mga dahilan nito ay ang aking mahuhusay na kasamahan sa trabaho. Lalo kong pang pagbutihin upang may legasiya na iiwan para sa mga residente," Hamor said in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency.

(Translation: I'm so happy because all my dreams are coming true. One of the reasons for this is my great colleagues at work. I will improve even more to leave a legacy for the residents.)

The provincial government of Albay has received the Vulcan award three times for their active partnership and administration of services under 4Ps, Comprehensive Local Juvenile Intervention Program, and for their extensive disaster response operation.

"We are very grateful, hindi namin ito magagawa kung hindi din po sa iba pang stakeholders na naging katuwang naman upang makaabot ang iba pang serbisyo sa mga benipisyaryo (We would not be able to do this if it were not for the other stakeholders who have been partners in order to deliver other services to the beneficiaries)," said Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Ma. Vivien Cea.

DSWD also recognized the efforts of various media agencies, such as the Philippine Information Agency Region 5, Radyo Pilipinas Albay, Philippine News Agency, GMA Regional TV, Bicol Idol FM, and PBN DZGB, who helped disseminate information and educate the public about their activities, announcements, and services.

Laurio ended his speech by saying, “Every day in the DSWD is a sacrifice being an act of love, a vocation, a commitment, and a promise of hope for the poor, the vulnerable, and the disadvantaged Bicolanos we serve.”

DSWD also acknowledged individuals, divisions, and units from its operational and administrative departments who contributed to the excellent performance of the Bicol region in pursuit of public welfare and development. (PIA5)