The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) was honored with the Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao Award by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) for promoting responsible parenthood among the household beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

Undersecretary for National Household Targeting System and 4Ps Vilma B. Cabrera received the plaque of recognition on behalf of Secretary Rex Gatchalian during the CPD Recognition of Population and Development (POPDEV) Partners and National CPD Brand Launch held on 27 November at Sequoia Hotel Manila Bay.  

The DSWD was conferred with the Kaunlarang Pantao Award for its support and outstanding contribution to the attainment of the Philippine Population and Development Plan of Action Goals (PPD-POA) 2023–2028, particularly through the integration of the Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RPFP) program into the Family Development Session (FDS) of the 4Ps. 

In her acceptance speech, Undersecretary Cabrera expressed the DSWD’s gratitude and reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to sustainable development.

“The DSWD, through 4Ps, fully understands the critical role of population dynamics in shaping our nation’s future,” Undersecretary Cabrera said. 

The DSWD official added, “We, at the DSWD, are resolute in our commitment to closely work with the CPD and other stakeholders, ensuring our programs align seamlessly with the PPD-POA”.

According to Undersecretary Cabrera, the 4Ps has strengthened the integration of the RPFP between 2014 and 2016 by reinforcing the National Advisory Council (NAC) Resolution that mandates couples to attend the sessions aimed at providing them with information and support related to family planning.

“We will continue to advocate more for comprehensive policies and programs that address the diverse needs of our population, promote gender equality, and empower women and children in need,” Undersecretary Cabrera pointed out.

Under the 4Ps, household beneficiaries are required to attend sessions focusing on various aspects of family welfare, parenting, and community involvement as part of their compliance to the conditions of the program. #