TACLOBAN CITY (PIA) — The Office of the President, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office VIII, distributed an early Christmas gift to different charitable institutions in Leyte during the annual gift-giving held at the DSWD Constitution Complex, Brgy. Pawing Palo, Leyte, on Nov. 26, 2023.
A total of 174 children benefited from the early Christmas giving, tagged as “Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya.”
Of these figure, 43 were from the Home for Girls, 34 from the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC), 13 from the Haven for Women (HFW), 10 from the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY), and 74 other children from the Social Welfare and Development agencies.
According to Gina D. Ogay, chief of the Protective Services Division of DSWD Field Office VIII, the children received loot bags containing items they could use, like blankets, towels, and pillows.
“This event is very much relevant in the spirit of the Christmas season. These children are happy and excited about their gifts,” Ogay said in Waray language.
A 13-year-old and 16-year-old girl from the Home for Girls mentioned they were happy and thankful for the gifts they received. They also enjoyed the presentations and indoor games.
In his speech during the nationwide gift-giving ceremony at the Malacañang grounds, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. said he was so happy surrounded by loud, playful, but happy children as they represent the true meaning of the Christmas spirit.
President Marcos Jr. also thanked DSWD’s critical role in nurturing the nation’s future and encouraged volunteering with youth to uplift less fortunate Filipinos.
The yearly gift-giving across the Philippines started in 2022 and aims to share joy with youngsters, especially those in need. (MMP/AAC/PIA Leyte)
