SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga (PIA) — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) continues to protect and empower vulnerable sectors in Central Luzon through various interventions.
During the third episode of the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas of the Philippine Information Agency, DSWD Regional Director Venus Rebuldela highlighted the agency’s ongoing commitment to provide prompt and compassionate services across seven provinces, 14 cities, 116 municipalities, and 3,102 barangays in the region.
“We assist those most in need during disasters by partnering with various sectors, despite the risks faced by our personnel, known as our Angels in Red Vests,” Rebuldela said.
She noted that the agency closely monitors children leaving the country due to the rise in physical and online sex trafficking cases.
“Last year, we secured 5,753 minors through the Minors Travelling Abroad program, ensuring each received a travel clearance. As of May 31 this year, we have issued 1,161 travel clearances in Central Luzon,” she disclosed.
DSWD also prioritizes the health of children in daycare centers. Under the 13th cycle implementation of the Supplementary Feeding Program for School Year 2023-2024, 121,566 children currently benefit from the initiative.
Moreover, Rebuldela expressed pride in the seven residential center facilities in Central Luzon, which continue to provide quality services. Four of these centers temporarily house 298 abused and abandoned children.
“The Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth currently rehabilitates 116 children in conflict with the law. At the Tarlac Home for Women, 37 women victims of abuse and with special needs receive protection against various forms of violence,” she furthered.
Additionally, DSWD has assisted 49 women who are victims of abuse, prostitution, armed conflict, illegal recruitment, and trafficking.
The Accelerating Minor’s Opportunity for Recovery (AMOR) Village in Tarlac currently houses 116 children with special needs, providing them with appropriate educational and health assistance.
To promote inclusivity, 296 persons with disabilities have received services under community-based programs.
The agency also supports the elderly through the Social Pension Program, distributing a total of P236,568,000 to indigent senior citizens.
“In line with Republic Act 10868, also known as the Centenarians Act of 2016, 114 centenarians received a one hundred thousand peso cash gift each,” Rebuldela shared.
These initiatives underscore the commitment of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration to uplifting the lives of vulnerable Filipinos and ensuring that no one is left behind in the nation’s progress. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)
