Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian and Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC) National Director Bishop Noel Pantoja engaged in a dialogue on Friday (May 23) to explore possible collaboration on key government programs for children and families.

Both parties expressed interest to co-develop values-based modules for the implementation of the Parent Effectiveness Service (PES), a national program committed to enriching the knowledge and skills of Filipino parents and parent-substitutes in responding to their parental duties and responsibilities.

The meeting also covered updates on adoption policies that ensures the child’s background and best interests are taken into account, along with ongoing government efforts to end all forms of violence and abuse against children.

DSWD officials also present in the meeting were International Affairs, Attached and Supervised Agencies (IASAs) Undersecretary Emmeline Aglipay-Villar and Assistant Secretary Elaine Fallarcuna.

PCEC Bishop Pantoja was accompanied by Pastor Kristina Azaña, Atty. Jochabed Dela Cruz and Ms. Maria Lourdes Sereno. # (LSJ)