DSWD-Davao Enhances Specialized Care at Angels' Haven in Tagum City
The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Davao Region (DSWD-Davao) is significantly boosting specialized care at Angels' Haven in Tagum City through its innovative "Healing Hands, Hopeful Hearts" initiative. Launched in August 2023, this program serves as a clinical internship platform for Physical Therapy students from San Pedro College, ensuring that clients meet weekly therapy requirements and demonstrate measurable improvements in mobility and overall functioning.
Budget and Operational Challenges
Social Welfare Officer III Julius Sazon highlighted that managing the facility requires an annual budget of 10 to 12 million pesos to cover medical expenses and daily care. He noted during the Kapihan sa PIA at the DSWD Davao Region Office on March 18, 2026, that this funding is typically provided by the city, with a large portion allocated to medications due to the children's daily maintenance needs.
The center operates 24/7 across three shifts, facing significant staffing challenges while serving a growing number of children from across Mindanao. Sazon emphasized the difficulty of maintaining adequate manpower, as the children require substantial care and special attention, complicating the round-the-clock operations.
Expanded Therapy Access and Impact
With the assistance of San Pedro College interns, therapy access has expanded dramatically, raising the daily patient load from six to 16 children. All 31 children at the center now receive weekly sessions, leading to notable improvements. Sazon shared that many children who previously could not walk are now able to run properly, and those who were bedridden can sit up, underscoring the program's tremendous help.
Although the facility's official capacity is 30, it currently accommodates 37 children and can handle up to 40, ensuring continued medical attention for children with special needs. DSWD underscored its commitment to providing comprehensive care while awaiting directives on potential expansion, aiming to secure a brighter and more mobile future for every child under the center's care.
