TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the region recognized its outstanding local government unit (LGU) partners during the ‘Panata Ko sa Bayan’ Awards held at the People’s Center and Library, this city, on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
The Panata Ko sa Bayan Awards serves as a platform to celebrate the commitment and dedication of LGUs in advancing social welfare programs and providing responsive and sustainable services to communities in need.
Assistant Secretary Rodolfo Santos of the DSWD Policy and Plans Group emphasized the crucial role of LGUs in implementing social protection initiatives, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support.
“We at the DSWD highly appreciate the continued partnership with local government units. Through these awards, we recognize your invaluable contributions to improving the lives of our fellow Filipinos,” he said.
The ceremony brought together around 240 participants, including representatives from Biliran, Leyte, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Southern Leyte, and Samar provinces.
The event’s highlight was the presentation of awards to LGUs that have demonstrated excellence, dedication, and innovation in social service delivery.
The following recognitions were given:
Serbisyong Matapat – for LGUs demonstrating integrity in social service implementation; Serbisyong Masigasig – for proactive and passionate service delivery; Serbisyong Mahusay – for outstanding efficiency in social welfare programs; and Serbisyong Mapagkalinga – for compassionate and inclusive social services.
Additionally, the DSWD Kaagapay Award was presented to partners who provided strong support for DSWD initiatives, while the FO8 SWD Champion Award honored exemplary contributions to social welfare and development in Eastern Visayas.
DSWD Eastern Visayas commended LGUs for their dedication in ensuring efficient and effective delivery of assistance, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in achieving meaningful social protection for all.
(LANCE ARCHIE TORING, STUDENT INTERN)
