President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday praised the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for its decades-long service to Filipinos, emphasizing its role in shaping a “Bagong Pilipinas” where no one is left behind.
Speaking at the agency’s 74th anniversary celebration in Pasay City, Mr. Marcos highlighted the DSWD’s commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities through programs such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Sustainable Livelihood Program, and social pensions for senior citizens.
He said the agency has provided more than just assistance, giving hope to families recovering from hardships, communities devastated by calamities and individuals in need of government support.
President Marcos touted the success of the 4Ps program, noting that more than 4 million households received aid in 2024 alone.
He said the program has helped nearly 678,000 families become self-sufficient and has supported thousands of students in completing their education and finding employment.
The President emphasized that education and health are key investments in the country’s future, and the conditional cash grants provided through 4Ps help families secure both.
Beyond financial aid, Mr. Marcos stressed the importance of creating sustainable opportunities to help Filipinos become self-sufficient.
He pointed to the Sustainable Livelihood Program, which provided technical-vocational training to nearly 271,000 households last year.
He said progress requires more than just assistance and that opportunities must be built so Filipinos can earn and grow.
The President also highlighted the government’s quick response to natural disasters, citing the Quick Response Fund, which aided 7.4 million affected families in 2024. He said disaster relief efforts should go beyond immediate assistance and ensure long-term recovery for affected communities.
As part of efforts to modernize government services, the president announced new initiatives, including HELPS (Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System), a platform that streamlines applications for licenses and permits, and the Minors Traveling Abroad System, which simplifies travel clearance processing for children.
He also introduced the Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Program, which aims to assess and address the needs of families across different life stages.
President Marcos said these efforts reflect a government that listens and evolves to meet the needs of its people.
He urged Filipinos to work together to build a nation where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed and no one is left behind.