Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman leads officials and staff for an interaction with President Benigno S. Aquino​, III​ in Malacanang today as the culminating activity for the 65th Founding Anniversary of the agency.

Sec. Soliman said that this event in Malacanang is a recognition of how DSWD programs have significantly contributed to President Aquino’s Daang Matu​wid​ brand of governance.

She assured ​that as the Department enters another milestone in public service, it vows to continue to thread the straight path through “matapat, mabilis, mahusay, at magiliw na paglilingkod (honest, fast, efficient, and courteous service)” in the implementation of social protection and poverty reduction programs and projects.

Sec. Soliman said that for over 65 years, even under various leadership, the DSWD has remained true to its commitment of empowering people to create positive changes in their lives.

One manifestation of this commitment is the positive transformation in the lives of some 1.5 million family- beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program who now have improved well-being. This was based on the second round of assessment of poor families conducted during the last quarter of 2015.

Meanwhile, highlights of the anniversary celebration held last week included the awarding of recognition to partners, stakeholders, and employees in helping the Department with the work of caring for the disadvantaged sector.

Through its PaNata Ko sa Bayan Awards, DSWD recognized the notable works of partners from civil society organizations, Local Government Units, People’s Organizations, volunteers, and donor institutions.

The Department also cited the cooperation of its partner-beneficiaries in showing that the programs and services of DSWD are truly worth the investment, like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

Outstanding and loyal employees were also recognized for their excellent performance and long years of dedicated service to government.

“We also dedicate our anniversary celebration to all our partner-beneficiaries who, with their resiliency, continue to create positive changes in their lives, and to our stakeholders and development partners who remain committed to help us perform our mandate,” Sec. Soliman stated.

Sec. Soliman added that the anniversary is a timely occasion to enjoin the DSWD Family to walk the extra mile to serve others.

The event carried the theme “DSWD@65: Mga Kwentong Tagumpay Tungo sa Masaganang Pagbabago”.