CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — To bridge the gap in government services for indigenous people (IPs), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) partnered with the civil society organization Initiatives for Dialogue and Empowerment through Alternative Legal Services (IDEALS) to provide free registration services in Kitaotao, Bukidnon.
Oliver Inodeo, information officer for 4Ps, said the initiative addressed the critical need for proper documentation, particularly birth certificates, which are essential for accessing government benefits.
“The IP focal for 4Ps, together with IDEALS, provided free registration services for our beneficiaries, especially our Indigenous brothers and sisters in the municipality of Kitaotao. This free service includes birth certificate registration for those who do not have one,” Inodeo said during the Lambo Dyes radio program on March 14.
Beyond birth certificates, the initiative facilitated enrollment in government programs such as PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG Fund and the Social Security System (SSS), ensuring social protection and financial security for the IPs.
“Gina-encourage gyud na nato nga ma-insured ang ilahang kaugmaon, especially kung mu-retire na sila or mawala ba diri sa kalibutan,”
(We encourage them to secure their future, especially for retirement or unforeseen circumstances.”)
Inodeo highlighted that Kitaotao has one of the highest concentrations of IPs enrolled in the 4Ps program, many of whom lack essential documents. DSWD-10 and IDEALS responded by bringing these vital services directly to the communities, eliminating travel barriers and reducing financial burdens.
By actively engaging with these communities, the DSWD-10 demonstrated its commitment to empowering IPs, ensuring they receive the necessary support to access government services and build a more secure future. (RTP/PIA-10)
