The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reaffirmed its commitment to extend social protection to families and communities in need across Cotabato province.
Speaking at the culmination of the province’s 112th Foundation Anniversary and Kalivungan Festival on Tuesday, Secretary Rex Gatchalian, represented by Undersecretary Fatima Aliah Dimaporo, highlighted the role of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in helping poor families keep their children in school and sustain their health and nutrition.
“Social protection works best when the whole of government works together. The national government can provide the programs and resources, but our local governments help us understand where these are needed most and how they can create the greatest impact,” Gatchalian said.
He assured Cotabateños that the agency aims to make them more secure, capable and prepared to build their future. He also emphasized the impact of the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) livelihood program, implemented in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, which supports communities affected by conflict.
One of the program’s grantees, the Makilala Integrated Peace Advocates (MIPA) farmers association in Barangay Malasila, Makilala town, recently received PHP300,000 in seed capital to strengthen its livelihood enterprise.
“This partnership is central to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of inclusive development — a government that brings services closer to the people and creates opportunities for those who need them most,” Gatchalian added.
He vowed that DSWD will continue to support families, strengthen livelihoods and invest in children, while working with communities to build a more peaceful and prosperous future.
Meanwhile, Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza reminded Cotabateños that the Kalivungan Festival is not only a gathering of the province’s tri-people (Muslims, indigenous communities and Christian settlers) but also a celebration of life, love, respect and healing.
“We bring the tri-people together and celebrate life and bountiful harvest,” she said.
The Kalivungan Festival is an annual cultural, harvest and founding anniversary celebration of Cotabato province. (PNA)
