The DSWD commended the support of all local government units (LGUs) in the CALABARZON Region in the delivery of programs and services to help improve the wellbeing of the beneficiaries.

In a series of dialogues with LGUs conducted by the DSWD, Regional Director Leticia T. Diokno thanked all local chief executives as well as the local social welfare and development officers for welcoming all the programs and services of the national government.

“We know that the national government cannot do everything alone. We encourage that you continuously support all the programs and services of the Department, and also continue your efforts at the local level towards helping the poor and vulnerable,” Dir. Diokno said.

During the dialogue, the DSWD highlighted the support of the LGUs for the poor such as the development of local programs for the senior citizens and persons with disability as well as the logistical support to DSWD programs including the provision of office space and supplies to DSWD staff deployed in the city / municipal level for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, Kalahi-CIDSS and Sustainable Livelihood Program.

The dialogue was conducted per province last August 31 in Tagaytay City, September 7 in Antipolo City, September 15 in Lucena City, September 20 in Batangas City and October 10 in Sta. Cruz, Laguna. Local chief executives and representatives from the local social welfare and development offices attended the activity.

Call for more efficient disaster response

The DSWD also emphasized the role of the LGUs in responding to the needs of the people in times of emergency.

“We are also encouraging LGUs to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with us for the prepositioning of relief goods in cities / municipalities to ensure convenience during disaster operations,” said Dir. Diokno.

The LGUs, provided that they have warehouses, can enter into a MOA with the DSWD so that relief goods are strategically positioned for faster delivery to victims of disasters.

Maagap at mapagkalingang serbisyo

The DSWD also presented to the LGUs the thrusts and directions of the new administration including the promotion of the “maagap at mapagkalingang serbisyo” of the staff to the clients all the time.

“It is very important that we understand the plight of our beneficiaries and we always ensure that the help we are providing them will be delivered on time, particularly those in crisis situations,” shared Dir. Diokno.

She further encouraged the LGUs to continuously talk to the DSWD regarding issues or concerns in the program implementation as the DSWD is always open towards providing assistance to them.

“Let’s always work together to achieve our goal of improving the lives of our beneficiaries,” she added.#