The Department of Social Welfare and Development IV-MiMaRoPa commemorates its 65th year anniversary through a week-long celebration held from February 15 to 19, 2016.
Themed “DSWD @65: Mga Kwentong Tagumpay Tungo sa Masaganang Pagbabago”, the launch of the anniversary week was the ribbon cutting ceremony for the “Larawan ng Tagumpay” photo exhibit and the bazaar showcasing products of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) which was available throughout the week.
Staff of the department shared a potluck lunch while being entertained by the Samu’t Saring Mukha ng Buhay Variety Show.
On the second day, groups of DSWD personnel participated in the Runong Social Quiz Show which tested the participants’ knowledge of the department and its programs.
The third day was a continuation of the variety show while the fourth day promotes the wellness of the staff through the Saliw sa Indayog Zumba session. There were also free spa and skin care services available to the staff for the first three days.
On the last day, DSWD staff along with partners LGU, NGOs, CSO and media capped off the celebration at the Richville Hotel, Mandaluyong City. During the event, employees who have rendered at least 10 years of service were given the Loyalty Award for their immeasurable commitment, dedication and hard work. Partners and stakeholders who have continuously joined hands with the region along social welfare and development endeavours also received plaques of appreciation from the department.
The loyalty awardees were Jessie A. Cadalso, for 20 years of service; Helen B. Alcoba and Eliseo G. Umali, Jr., for 25 years of service; Florefe Y. Dimaala and Rosalinda C. Mejorada, for 30 years of service and Regional Director Wilma D. Naviamos for 35 years of service.
The title of Best Functioning Team was given to Roxas, Oriental Mindoro and the Best Convergence Initiative was awarded to the Municipal Action Team of Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro. Fifty-two (52) municipalities of Region IV-MiMaRoPa were given the Seal of Friendly Local Governance.
Calintaan, Occidental Mindoro received the award for LGU with the Most Number of Accredited Day Care Centers/Day Care Workers while the Longest Serving Day Care Worker award was given to Mirriam M. Sabavaro of Lupac Day Care.
The department also recognized the volunteers who assisted in the relief operations for the victims of Typhoon Nona. Individuals from the Maritime Industry Authority, Philippine Coast Guard Batangas Station, Smart Inc., Core Motorcycle Club and URAC Motorcycle Club received certificates of recognition for their service.
Lastly, partners from the media were given the Gawad Ulat Awards. The awardees were Ms. Gudula G. Sarsagat of Radyo ng Bayan; Ms. Melanie E. Lagrana of DWXR KALAHI; Mr. Romeo G. Media of TV Net; Ms. Gemma Q. Cacas of TV Patrol; Mr. Gerald Ticke of Palawan Times; Mr. Jose M. Leuterio of Mindoro Bulletin; and Mr. Paul Jaysent Fos of Romblon News.
The week-long celebration of DSWD commemorates the establishment of the department and the dedicated employees, partners and stakeholders to the achievement of its mission, vision and goals. ### (Janina Myn Villapando)
