PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday reaffirmed his commitment to make government services accessible to all as he instructed the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and all state agencies to ensure that all social services are within reach.
“As we look to the future, I enjoin the DSWD once again and all government agencies to ensure that your services reach those in need, wherever they may be,” the President said during the celebration of the 72nd DSWD anniversary and inauguration of the agency’s multi-purpose building at the department’s central office in Quezon City.
“People should not need to travel to urban areas to access government services. That is why we must ensure that everyone everywhere will have access to all the help and services that they need,” the President pointed out.
In his speech, the chief executive enjoined the agency to continue calibrating the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and strengthening the government’s social protection initiatives, “especially since one of the measures we undertake to address poverty is through the grants that we provide for the health needs of every household and education of our children.”
President Marcos likewise called on the DSWD to continue to implement the Unconditional Cash Transfer Program “to provide cash grants to poor households and individuals who do not benefit from the lower income tax rates but who are adversely affected by rising prices.”
The President also urged the DSWD to enhance the Social Pension Program for Senior Citizens “as a means to augment their daily subsistence and medical needs.”
President Marcos, in his speech, recognized the agency’s stability and reliability, noting that for over 70 years, the DSWD has remained unwavering in its mission to improve the lives of every Filipino, especially those who are in distress, those who are in danger, and those who are disadvantaged.
“In fact, your dedication has proven vital to the success of this noble institution and this noble work that you do for our people. And that is why I join the entire Filipino people in expressing our gratitude for your continued excellence in rendering public service,” the President said.
“Through your efforts and sacrifices, we have made inroads in reducing poverty, in reducing hunger, and towards achieving upper-middle income status by 2025,” Marcos added.
