Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office MIMAROPA through the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa (PDBBM)- Regional Program Management Office (RPMO),  conducted a three-day Technical Orientation on Social Case Management for Insurgent Returnees from February 11 to 13, 2025, in Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro.

Spearheaded by DSWD MIMAROPA Regional Director Leonardo C. Reynoso, CESO III, the face-to-face orientation is aimed to improve field personnel’s skills in addressing the needs of former insurgents and supporting their reintegration through effective case management.

Further, the orientation intends to build the capacity of field staff by equipping them with the skills to assess needs, develop tailored intervention plans, and collaborate with stakeholders for holistic support of returnees.

The training was attended by 25 DSWD field personnel, facilitated by technical staff from the Regional Program Management Office (RPMO), and supported by Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) Provincial Coordinator Marites Pones, and Oriental Mindoro Social Welfare and Development Team (SWADT) Leader Severina Bongaling. 

 

Moreover, Director Reynoso shared his expertise in dealing with Former Members of Non-State Armed Groups (FMNSAGs), provided valuable insights into the complexities of social case management and emphasized the importance of a comprehensive and compassionate approach to reintegration efforts.

Director Reynoso mentioned that appropriate social case management will ensure that returnees are made aware of the programs and services available to them, the benefits they can receive, and how they can become active partners in their communities to achieve the goals of the programs.

Throughout the training, participants engaged in hands-on learning experiences that deepened their understanding of social work principles, case management techniques, and best practices for assisting former insurgents in accessing essential services and livelihood opportunities that will enable them to become productive members of society.

This initiative reflects the DSWD’s commitment to a community-driven, conflict-sensitive approach, promoting sustainable peace and development through collaboration with various agencies and stakeholders in MIMAROPA, ultimately paving the way for a more unified and resilient region.