Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Juliano-Soliman led a dialogue with officials and staff of DSWD CaLaBaRZon and MiMaRoPa, yesterday, June 16, at Asian Development Bank, Mandaluyong City.

Special Meeting aims to: provide updates on accomplishments of the Department; call attention of DSWD officials and staff on what they should continue working on; address other issues and concerns; and prepare the department for the transition period.

Based on the data presented by Secretary ‘Dinky’, Listahanan 2 tells us that out of the 15.1 million households assessed: 5.1 million are poor; 880,000 are near poor; and 1.5 million are non-poor.

Also, report says that 1.4 million families have increased their incomes to go above the 2012 poverty threshold.

Secretary also reported the achievement of the department in terms of education. Data says that 3.23 families have members who are now functionally literate while 969,000 Pantawid Pamilya children are currently enrolled in formal or informal education.

“All these gains we have achieved because of empowerment of the poor. However, while we have made significant strides, there’s still much work left to do,” emphasized Secretary ‘Dinky’.

As part of the transition period, Secretary ‘Dinky’ presented the Value Proposition of the department which is: “Empowerment of the Poor Lowers Crime”.

In terms of Product branding, Secretary emphasized that DSWD caters: “Calibrated and evidence-based programming and delivery of Social Welfare and Social Protection services and programs via passion-driven, competent, compassionate and demand-responsive workforce”.

On the other hand, according to the Secretary, the Leadership Brand of the Department is: “ A leadership practice that is empowering, convergent, informed in its decision-making, accountable, transparent and participatory”.

“Be impatietly impatient!” emphasized Sec. Dinky as she encouraged each officials and staff to passionately but patiently provide a quality, timely and efficient service to the poor, vulnerable and disadvantaged.

In order to heighten the lively spirit of the Secretary, both regions gave gifts and showcased special number for the secretary.

One of the highlights of the event is the ‘Putong’, a ritual in Marinduque conducted to welcome, praise and acknowledge guests in their province. Also, DSWD MiMaRoPa Choir, sang ‘Walang Hanggang Paalam’ of Joey Ayala, one of the favorite songs of the Secretary Dinky.

Activity ended with a photo shoot with the Secretary which will definitely serve as a reminder of the exciting and dynamic journey of the department with her. ###