In line with the celebration of the World Social Work Day on Tuesday (March 18), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) held an online forum to honor the invaluable contribution of social workers in nation-building over the years, and highlight the importance of intergenerational cohesion amid the evolving landscape of the social work profession.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian has underscored the significance of Social Work Day as an expression of appreciation to the vital role that social workers play in improving the well-being of individuals, families, and communities and in promoting social justice and human rights.
Anchored on the theme, “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing,” the DSWD’s celebration on Tuesday served as a platform to reflect on the value of caring and understanding across generations in achieving a strong society and inclusive development.
In her opening message, Undersecretary Denise Bernos-Bragas of the DSWD’s Regulatory
Services and Institutional Development Group (RSIDG) urged the participants to harness the wisdom of the past, and the opportunities of the present to strike a balance between tradition and modernity.
“In an increasingly interconnected world, it is crucial to strengthen the solidarity between age groups. We should treasure the wisdom of our social workers who shaped and stood for the profession. From their wisdom to the vitality and innovations of our youth, the generational exchange encourages a sense of unity and shared responsibility to face the challenges that lie ahead,” Undersecretary Bragas told the participants.
Initiated by the DSWD Academy, the forum gathered over 500 participants comprising of social workers from the 16 agency Field Offices, local government units (LGUs), and non-government organizations (NGOs).
Professor Thelma Lee Mendoza, a seasoned social worker behind the iconic ‘Orange Book’ or the “Social Welfare and Social Work,” acted as facilitator during the forum’s discussion.
Adding depth into the celebration’s theme, Prof. Mendoza emphasized the importance of continuous sharing of wisdom, experiences, and support systems across generations, as well as the essential role of social work in advocating for justice and empowering communities, families, and individuals.
Director Justin Caesar Anthony Batocabe of the DSWD Academy reiterated the agency’s relentless efforts to ensure that social workers are not always the ones doing the giving, but should also be given ample support, particularly through capacity-building initiatives and learning opportunities, under the agency’s academy.
“This event has not only enlightened us, but also challenged us to think bigger and work harder and collaborate more effectively as we strive to uplift the standards of social work in our country,” Director Batocabe said in his message.
As part of the observance of World Social Work Day, all DSWD employees and personnel were urged to wear yellow to be consistent with the branding of the global event. (LSJ)