In a significant move to bolster animal-assisted therapy, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) have relaunched the ‘Angel Pets’ program. The initiative was unveiled at the Sanctuary Center in Mandaluyong City, with DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian expressing high hopes for its impact on the rehabilitation and reintegration of vulnerable populations.
The ‘Angel Pets’ program, which was first introduced during PAWS’ anniversary in October 2024, aims to integrate enjoyable animal interactions into the therapeutic processes at selected DSWD centers and residential care facilities. Secretary Gatchalian emphasized the novelty of animal-assisted therapy in the Philippines, noting its previous implementations were not as structured or sustainable. He believes the program will not only showcase the positive effects of such therapy but also enhance public trust in this innovative approach.
The program is structured into three main components: ALAGA (Adaptive Life Assistance Given by Animals), which involves deploying PAWS’ Dr. Dogs to DSWD facilities; ARAL (Advocacy, Research and Learning), focusing on the technical aspects; and LUNAS SURI (Healing Assessment), aimed at raising awareness and developing tools to monitor therapy progress.
Following a successful pilot launch on November 16, 2024, at Marillac Hills–National Training School for Girls, the program has already shown promising results. This center caters to minor girls aged seven to 17 who are survivors of sexual abuse, human trafficking, or children in conflict with the law. Additionally, sessions were held on December 7 at the Sanctuary Center, a refuge for women aged 18 and above who have been abandoned, neglected, or are living with psycho-social disabilities.
Secretary Gatchalian is optimistic about the program’s future, planning to expand its reach after the initial six-month pilot phase. PAWS Executive Director Anna Cabrera expressed gratitude for the partnership, highlighting the opportunities it provides to promote their Dr. Dogs program and contribute to the healing of those in need.