The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has given recognition to the social workers of the DSWD’s Field Office (FO) 5 – Bicol Region for their contributions in the delivery of agency programs and services during a hybrid ceremony on Tuesday (December 16).
Dubbed as “Pagtiripon Kan DSWD Bicol Social Workers Year 2”, the celebration aims to recognize the dedication of social workers in the region and strengthen the camaraderie among the social work practitioners.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian lauded the social workers in a message read by Undersecretary Denise Florence Bernos-Bragas of the Regulatory Services and Institutional Development Group (RSIDG).
“Gusto ko pong gamitin ang oportunidad na ito para pasalamatan kayong lahat for your commitment to uplifting the lives of our kababayans, especially those who are poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged. Our social workers are the backbone of the department,” Undersecretary Bernos-Bragas said as she read the DSWD chief’s message virtually.
“Alam ko po na hindi madali ang inyong trabaho, pero patuloy kayong naglilingkod ng may puso at dedikasyon. We believe that social work is not just a profession—it is a calling. Ito ay misyon na nangangailangan ng puso, tapang, at malasakit,” the RSIDG undersecretary said.
According to Undersecretary Bernos-Bragas, there are 981 social workers in FO-5 alone, who “continue to serve tirelessly across the provinces,” in the Bicol Region.
“You untiringly respond to the growing demands of programs with compassion, courage, and professionalism. Each day, you walk with families through their darkest hours, provide hope to those who feel hopeless, and restore dignity to those who have been marginalized,” the DSWD official pointed out.
One of the highlights of the activity was the presentation on the prospects and commitment in social work empowerment, current trends in social work, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in project management.
Among the presenters were Asst. Secretary Janet Armas of the RSIDG; DSWD FO 4A – CALABARZON Asst. Regional Director for Operations (ARDO) Myla Gatchalian, who is also the national president of the Association of DSWD Social Workers (ADSWI); and Social Worker Officer Jake Thomas of DSWD FO 5 — who are all registered social workers.
“As we move forward, let us continue to embrace innovation and creativity in our practice. Let us advocate fiercely for the welfare of our clients and the communities we serve,” Undersecretary Bernos-Bragas said. (YADP)
