Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian paid a courtesy visit to Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno to personally offer the agency’s support and reinforce coordination with local leaders, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen partnerships between national and local governments especially in times of disasters.

“Ang playbook namin ngayon ay always talk to the mayors. That is why I came here. Number one, alam nyo naman ang number ko, you can call me. Pag may kailangan ka, I’m just a phone call away,” Secretary Gatchalian said during a short meeting on Thursday (July 24) at the Manila City Hall.

Although he did not bring physical goods during the visit, Secretary Gatchalian brought with him DSWD’s National Capital Region Director Michael Joseph Lorico, who assured swift action in case any form of assistance is needed.

“Wala lang akong dalang physical goods ngayon, pero ang dala ko ay si Regional Director Lorico. If you need more, please let us know,” the DSWD chief said.

“Yun lang naman ang pakay ko. Una, sabi ni Presidente [Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.], ‘Rex, galing kayong lahat sa local government units (LGUs), dapat nag-uusap kayo,’” Secretary Gatchalian said, echoing the President’s guidance for more responsive governance through strong LGU coordination.

Mayor Moreno, who is popularly known as Isko and Yorme, expressed appreciation for the DSWD’s disaster response efforts.

“You’re doing good. We are happy and proud of you and the entire DSWD. Wala kaming problema sa inyo in terms of assistance from the national government, in all honesty,” Mayor Moreno told Secretary Gatchalian and the DSWD team.(YADP)