President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. addressed the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) during its 74th anniversary celebration at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, emphasizing the need for consistency and vigilance in facing contemporary challenges like climate change. Marcos praised the DSWD for its unwavering dedication to serving the Filipino people, particularly those in vulnerable and marginalized communities.
He highlighted the DSWD’s vision of creating a resilient and inclusive society where no one is left behind, commending their efforts in swift disaster response, consistent family support, and commitment to overlooked sectors. Marcos stressed that lasting change requires ongoing, honest, and dedicated efforts, with every decision and program aimed at creating enduring opportunities for upliftment.
The President also acknowledged the DSWD’s new initiatives, including the Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS), the Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) System, and the Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Program. These initiatives demonstrate a government that listens and evolves to meet its people’s needs. HELPS streamlines license and permit applications, while the MTA system modernizes travel clearance for Filipino minors. The Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Program introduces a rights-based, family-oriented development model to support Filipino families through various life stages.
Marcos emphasized the importance of the Quick Response Fund for effective disaster response, given the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters. He lauded the DSWD’s courage and dedication during recent calamities, noting their role as first responders who tirelessly deliver relief.
The President also recognized the DSWD’s contributions through programs like the 4Ps, the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), and the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens. In 2024, these programs helped over 678,000 families achieve self-sufficiency, nearly 271,000 households benefit from SLP, and 4.3 million senior citizens receive social pensions.
Marcos concluded by calling on Filipinos to support these efforts collectively, envisioning a New Philippines where every citizen can dream, strive, and succeed, and where compassion is a way of life, ensuring no one is left behind.