Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) emphasized the successful implementation of social protection programs aimed at supporting millions of impoverished and near-poor Filipinos. His directives to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) have been pivotal in translating these initiatives into tangible benefits for the population.
According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos highlighted the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) program, which has been instrumental in providing assistance during the energy emergency. This initiative has reached 1.8 million public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers across the nation, offering PHP5,000 cash relief assistance as part of the DSWD's Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian praised the President's SONA, describing it as one of the most impactful in recent memory. The focus on social protection, he noted, will drive the DSWD to enhance its efforts to ensure these measures reach their intended beneficiaries.
The UPLIFT assistance continues to be a priority, with the DSWD collaborating with agencies like the Social Security System and the Philippine Statistics Authority to support those affected by the energy crisis. Special attention was given to the 3.5 million beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the 600,000 grantees of the Walang Gutom Program (WGP), who are particularly vulnerable to rising utility and commodity costs.
Efforts under the Buong Bansa Handa (BBH) program, directed by President Marcos and implemented by the DSWD under Gatchalian, aim to enhance disaster response capabilities. This initiative focuses on improving humanitarian logistics and delivery through a dual supply chain system that integrates government and private sector resources.
The President also underscored the administration's commitment to child protection. Following a tragic school shooting incident in Tacloban City, Marcos paid tribute to the heroism displayed by three high school students. Additionally, he announced the expansion of Project Aruga, which supports children with disabilities and their families through health interventions and financial assistance.
The DSWD's proactive stance on child protection includes the Bahay Pag-Asa (BPA) program, which has 16 operational facilities providing care for children in conflict with the law. Plans are underway to construct additional regional BPA facilities, backed by a PHP275 million budget from the 2026 General Appropriations Act.
In a bid to prevent juvenile delinquency, the DSWD will launch the Parent Effectiveness Services program in November. This initiative is designed to equip parents with skills and knowledge to guide their children towards becoming productive members of society.
