Ermita, Manila – The DSWD Field Office IV-MiMaRoPa conducted an orientation-training to the Municipal Links (MLs) of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program at Best Western Hotel La Corona, Manila last June 14-21, 2014. There were 40 MLs participants who came from the provinces of Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan.

The training aims to equip the participants with the knowledge of the thrusts and processes of the program. It also enables them to articulate the importance of Convergence Strategy and particularly define their roles and responsibilities in handling issues and concerns of the Department’s programs.

The said activity discussed various strategies that will facilitate working with various stakeholders such as the beneficiaries and partner-implementers. It also highlighted the importance of work ethics and handling of difficult situations in the field to ensure complete, accurate and reliable results.

Highlight of the training was a field work experience in Barangay 667, Ermita, Manila where MLs observed actual Family Development Session (FDS) conducted by City Link and International Holistic Engagement for Life and Progress Inc. (iHelp).

With the Regional Training Specialists (RTS) Zirylle Aidanne Lajara, April Joy A. Delica and Priscilla J. Natanuan, as facilitators, every part of the program were discussed and thoroughly tackled by the respective focal persons from the regional office.

According to Lajara, MLs play an essential role in implementing the program. “We expect that through this orientation-training, new MLs will be knowledgeable and competent enough as they will be the main connection of the regional office to the field and the frontliners with our stakeholders especially our beneficiaries”, said Delica.

The same activity is expected to be carried out to another batch of newly-hired MLs of Pantawid Pamilya staff in the region. ###

Story by: Mei Ann Joy R. Lindog, Municipal Link