The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) relaunched their collaborative project dubbed “Angel Pets” on Wednesday.
“We are relaunching this initiative to the members of the media so that they can familiarize themselves even more with this significant partnership,” said DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao.
Initially introduced during the PAWS’s anniversary last October 2024, the Angel Pets is a heartwarming initiative centered on animal-assisted therapy. It aims to enhance the therapeutic services in select centers and residential care facilities (CRCFs) managed by the DSWD.
“The program is designed to facilitate rehabilitation and reintegration of vulnerable groups through sessions that incorporate positive and enjoyable interactions with animals into therapeutic and supportive processes,” Dumlao said.
The Marillac Hills, a facility that assists girls between the ages of 7 and 17 who have experienced abuse, human trafficking, or conflict with the law, already had their first session with PAWS’ emotional support ‘Dr. Dogs’ last November 16, 2024.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian led the Angel Pets’ session at the Sanctuary Center during the media launch on Wednesday.
The Sanctuary Center serves as a home and refuge to women, 18 years old and above, who have been abandoned, neglected, or are living with psycho-social disabilities.