Guest speakers, visitors and students pose during the “Dialogue with Social Work Students” held at the University of Cebu Banilad Senior High School Campus Auditorium in Cebu City. (DSWD)
CEBU CITY, Cebu (PIA) – Almost 250 students of the College of Social Work from the University of Cebu (UC), Siliman University (SU), and University of Southern Philippines (USP) attended the dialogue on the significance of the social work profession on Jan. 24, 2025.
The event was organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Central Office through its Social Welfare Institutional Development Bureau (SWIDB), in partnership with the DSWD Field Office 7 and the University of Cebu (UC).
It was held at the UC Banilad Senior High School Campus Auditorium.
Anchored on the theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Theories and Practice,” the dialogue focused on the discussion about the roles of social workers in DSWD, courts, medical institutions, local government units (LGUs), and non-government organizations (NGOs).
During the forum, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized the greater calling of social workers in his speech.
“Being with the department that is home to social workers, I have realized that social work is more than just a career. It is a calling,” he said.
“My interactions with social workers have led me to appreciate the meaning of social work and see the world not just as it is. But as it could be. A world where no one is left behind. Where children are protected, families are supported, and communities are empowered,” Gatchalian shared.
In her opening remarks, DSWD Undersecretary for Standards and Capacity Building Group Denise FB Bernos-Bragas stated that the forum would tackle topics related to the fundamental functions of a social worker.
“This gathering underscores the vital role that social work plays in fostering social welfare and development in our communities. Today, we come together to discuss not only the fundamental functions of our profession. But also how social workers can contribute meaningfully to improving the well-being of individuals, families, and communities,” said Bragas.
DSWD 7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero also discussed the roles of a social worker in DSWD.
“In DSWD, we set the standards for social welfare and development. The department provides immediate relief and early recovery during disasters. It continues to develop innovative programs and technologies responsive to social realities and trends. We ensure we empower the vulnerable populations to live a fulfilling life,” said Lucero.
Meanwhile, 150 participants from universities across the Visayas, including Eastern Samar State University, Leyte Normal University, and Southern Leyte State University, also attended the dialogue online.
The DSWD and UC initiated the Visayas dialogue following the successful dialogue held in Luzon in 2023, which aimed to provide opportunities for strengthening the social work profession and promoting the roles of social workers as an essential part of social welfare and development. (HFG/PIA7 with reports from DSWD)
