In a move to bolster support for individuals and families affected by armed conflict, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will launch on Wednesday (July 30) the Social Case Management Service (SCMS) for former members of non-state armed groups (FMNSAG) and individuals and families affected by armed conflict.
The SCMS program, spearheaded by the DSWD’s Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa – National Program Management Office (PDBBM-NPMO), aims to provide sustained, individualized support to help beneficiaries recover from the effects of armed conflict and successfully reintegrate into their communities.
“This program is rooted in the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to extend government services to all marginalized and vulnerable sectors, including those affected by armed conflict,” Undersecretary Alan Tanjusay of the DSWD’s Peace and Development Group (PDG) said on Tuesday (July 29).
The SCMS’ launch in General Santos City in South Cotabato will mark the official introduction of the initiative to the intended beneficiaries in pilot implementation sites.
“Through this social case management, we will assess the unique needs of each client, co-create intervention plans, deliver tailored services, and monitor progress. The ultimate goal is to help our beneficiaries restore their dignity, self-worth, and sense of belonging and to support their peaceful reintegration into society,” Undersecretary Tanjusay said.
Under the more comprehensive case management process, the DSWD, through its case managers, will firm up monitoring and tracking systems to ensure that government interventions address both immediate and long-term needs of FMNSAGs and conflict-affected individuals and families.
The SCMS will not only ensure access to the agency’s psychosocial support, livelihood assistance, but referrals to other government and non-government programs based on beneficiaries’ needs and circumstances, according to Undersecretary Tanjusay.
“Our official launching will serve as a platform to mobilize the support of partner agencies, local government units (LGUs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and other stakeholders in ensuring the successful rollout of the program in conflict-affected areas,” Undersecretary Tanjusay said.
The DSWD official said this initiative reflects the agency’s broader strategy to strengthen social welfare systems and expand peace and development efforts, particularly in Mindanao.
“This program, under the leadership of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, is the agency’s direct contribution to President Marcos Jr.’s broader vision of peace as a foundation for national development. The PDG of the DSWD proudly spearheads this milestone event, as this is a step toward a more hopeful and resilient future for all Filipinos affected by conflict,” Undersecretary Tanjusay pointed out. (LSJ)