Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Thursday (January 16) pledged his full support to the Association of DSWD Social Workers, Incorporated (ADSWI) as he administered the oath taking of its16 officials who will lead the different chapters across the country.

In a brief meeting, the DSWD chief told the newly-minted officials that under his stewardship, the agency will remain steadfast in upholding quality-driven social work practice not just within the confines of the Department but in the DSWD Field Offices.

Secretary Gatchalian told the ADSWI officials he will always advocate the well-being of social workers and their broader role in championing the rights and welfare of Filipinos — particularly the marginalized, disadvantaged and vulnerable sectors.

The ADSWI is a legal entity composed of Registered Social Workers (RSW) employed in the DSWD whose primary objective is to participate in the formulation and implementation of policies, issues, and concerns relevant to the practice of the social work profession.

The sworn officials include Chapter President Clarivel Banzuela of Region 1 (Ilocos Region): President Lucy Alan of Region 2 (Cagayan Valley); President Rowena Balingit of Region 3 (Central Luzon); President Myla Gatchalian of Region 4-A (CALABARZON); President Faith Crispino of 4-B (MIMAROPA); Interim President Priscilla Saladaga of Region 5 (Bicol Region); President Luna Moscoso of Region 6 (Western Visayas); President Analisa Aviso of Region 7 (Central Visayas); President Paula Unay of Region 8 (Eastern Visayas); Interim Officer Rowena Mendoza of Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula); President Gloferia Uayan of Region 10 (Northern Region); Ali Namla of Region 12 (SOCCSKSARGEN); President Bienvenido Barbosa of National Capital Region (NCR); Interim Officer Maryann Buclao of Codillera Administartive Region (CAR); and Interim President Elladona Agor of DSWD of Central Office. (LSJ)