Director Gemma B. Gabuya, National Program Manager of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), led 47 Social Workers in attending the 2023 National Convention of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI), held on November 5-10, 2023, at the Waterfront Hotel, Cebu City. The convention featured two (2) significant activities: the 27th Asia Pacific Regional Conference and the 75th Platinum Jubilee National Convention.
The 27th Asia Pacific Regional Conference, with the theme “The Sustainable Development Goals Halfway Point: Social Work’s Contributions to Social Development”, highlighted the vital role of social workers in the Asia Pacific region in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Director Gabuya, who served as one of the resource persons, delivered a compelling speech that shed light on the Philippines’ remarkable journey in implementing the Conditional Cash transfer program with the end goal of eradicating intergenerational cycles of poverty. Additionally, 4Ps Deputy Program Manager for Operations, Rosalie D. Dagulo, presented her research on “Case Management on Children in Residential Care: Ensuring Children’s Permanence Placement”.
Meanwhile, the 75th Platinum Jubilee National Convention, with the theme “Ensuring the Mental Health and Wellness of the Social Service Workforce”, served as an avenue to share and discuss the issues and challenges faced by Social Workers that affect their mental health and how these issues are addressed by the Program. Further, Ms. Rosylyn M. Arnigo, Division Chief of the Capability Building Division, delivered a speech highlighting the achievements of 4Ps.
In conclusion, Director Gemma B. Gabuya expressed her gratitude towards DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian for his support and for enjoining social workers to participate in meaningful events such as the PASWI 2023 National Convention.
The participation of the 4Ps in the PASWI 2023 National Convention highlights its commitment to continuously strengthen and improve its services towards building a better future for Filipino families in need and ensuring not just the welfare of the beneficiaries it serves but also the development of its workers.