The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will formalize a new partnership with Climate Conflict Action Asia (CCAA) through the signing of a Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU) for the Kasama Katutubo Project, an initiative that aims to improve the delivery of services to Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) across the country.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and CCAA Executive Director Francisco Lara Jr. will lead the ceremonial signing on Thursday (June 19) at the DSWD Central Office in Quezon City.

Undersecretary Fatima Aliah Dimaporo of the DSWD’s Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs said the partnership marks a milestone in strengthening culturally sensitive social protection for ICCs/IPs.

The Kasama Katutubo launches an innovative survey tool that recognizes the lived experiences, indigenous traditions, cultural values, and resilience distinct to Indigenous communities.

“These are factors that standard forms and assessment tools do not normally capture. By creating an intake tool that recognizes the strength of indigenous capabilities and unique way of life, we hope that this project will make social programs more responsive, inclusive, and relevant,” Undersecretary Dimaporo pointed out.

The new tool will be piloted in five selected indigenous communities and will be used to help the DSWD and CCAA better understand the needs of IP communities.

“We aim to use the data and information for better targeted service delivery, more responsive social protection programs, and evidence-based policymaking,” Undersecretary Dimaporo said. (YADP)