DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian Highlights Need for National-Local Collaboration to Speed Up Service Delivery
During a visit to Talusan, Zamboanga Sibugay on Monday, February 23, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian underscored the critical importance of robust cooperation between the National Government and local governments. This partnership is essential to expedite the delivery of social services and development initiatives across communities.
Focus on Concrete Development Steps in Talusan
The visit, part of Gatchalian's development tour in Zamboanga Sibugay, began with a meeting between the secretary and Talusan Municipal Mayor Gilbert Edem. Their discussions centered on actionable strategies for municipal development, with a particular emphasis on enhancing social welfare programs.
According to the DSWD-Zamboanga Peninsula, key agenda items included the allocation of additional funds for the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) and the strengthening of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-Cidss).
"These programs aim to provide more livelihood opportunities and launch community projects that will directly benefit families in need," the DSWD-Zamboanga Peninsula stated, highlighting the tangible impacts of these efforts.
Inspection of Community Projects and Broad Support
Gatchalian also inspected a one-classroom school building at Florida Elementary School in Talusan, a project implemented under the Kalahi-Cidss framework. This visit demonstrated the practical outcomes of government-led community initiatives.
The event saw participation from a range of local officials, including Zamboanga Sibugay First District Representative Marlo Cantancio Bancoro, Governor Dulce Ann Hofer, Mabuhay Municipal Mayor Edreluisa Caloñge, Mabuhay Municipal Councilor Reymond Bagonoc, and DSWD-Zamboanga Peninsula Director Riduan Hadjimuddin. Their presence reinforced the collective commitment to advancing social welfare and development in the region.
This visit underscores DSWD's ongoing efforts to bridge gaps between national policies and local implementation, ensuring that services reach those in need more efficiently and effectively.
