Coined from various lives touched by DSWD’s programs, the DSWD Field Office 1 launched its first theater play dubbed as ‘Teatro Iti Biag Ko’ (theater of my life) as among its strategic advocacy activities that also promote rehabilitation.

This was featured during the State of DSWD Region 1 Address at Diego Silang Hall, Provincial Capitol, City of San Fernando, La Union on 14 December 2015.

Two mini plays revolved on frontline programs on disaster management and core poverty reduction programs entitled ‘Salamat, Kasama Kita’ and ‘Pag-ahon’.

These highlighted services provided to disaster victims and the empowered lives of families with DSWD’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, Sustainable Livelihood Program and KALAHI-CIDSS NCDDP.

Social Marketing Staff started training the residents on theater play sometime in August 2015 on basic elements of theater, acting, blocking, casting, voice modulation/vocalization, props, and costumes.

The script was developed from true stories of families assisted by poverty reduction programs while the disaster management revolved on actual scenarios during disaster management at DSWD Field Office 1.

During the series of workshops and team building activities, self confidence, camaraderie and unity were strengthened along with their enhanced acting. The roles they played did not only magnify the efficiency of services but also the transformation emanated from the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY) actors (residents) themselves.

The production team also included staff from the Protective Services Unit, Financial Management Unit, General Services Section, and Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth.(by: Iryn D. Cubangbang, IO II)