“You are the first to respond but the last to sleep. While others sought shelter from the storm, you walked into the chaos to deliver relief. You have saved lives, brought hope, and demonstrated the true power of compassion. For that, the country is grateful. For that, your President is grateful.”
This was the commendation received by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr in his keynote address during the agency’s 74th anniversary celebration on February 18 (Tuesday) at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
President Marcos emphasized in his speech that the DSWD has been a “steady, reassuring presence” for many Filipinos.
The President also underscored the agency’s provision of programs and services such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) that helped struggling families to reach self-sufficiency and access to thriving livelihood opportunities.
President Marcos also noted the DSWD’s committed provision of social pension to ensure that 4.3 million indigent senior citizens will have the funds necessary for their daily necessities and medical expenses.
In terms of facing disaster risks and climate change, President Marcos praised the DSWD’s immediate facilitation of the Quick Response Funds (QRF).
“Last year, nearly 7.4 million disaster-affected Filipino families received essential assistance through the QRF. Over 540,000 families were also provided early recovery services, ensuring support beyond just immediate relief. These numbers embody our commitment to stand with our people—swiftly, compassionately, and resolutely—through every stage of their recovery,” the Chief Executive pointed out.
President Marcos reiterated his administration’s commitment to modernization, government efficiency, and accessibility through digitalization.
The Chief Executive said that with the DSWD’s new online systems, the Harmonized Electronic Licensing Permit System (HELPS) and the Minors Traveling Abroad system, which were launched during the anniversary celebration, the DSWD will be able to efficiently perform its mandate.
During the event, the President signed the ‘Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipina’s Compendium which will help strengthen family development and welfare across different life stages.
“These endeavors reflect a government that listens and that responds—a government that evolves to meet the needs of its people,” President Marcos said.
Bannering the theme “Bawat Pamilyang Pilipino ay Mahalaga sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the DSWD’s 74th anniversary celebration will be held from February 17 to 21 with a series of launches on the newest initiatives of the Department that seek to make the agency’s services more efficient, quality-driven, and client-centered.