The first assembly of LSWDOs marked a significant milestone through the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1 (DSWD FO 1) – Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Division in Region 1. The event brought together a total of 126 dedicated LSWDOs at Hotel Elizabeth, Baguio City on 26-27 June 2024.

Entitled as the 4Ps Convention with LSWDOs, the undertaking intended to provide updates relative to DSWD programs especially 4Ps; be an avenue for sharing of experiences in the context of implementing social welfare programs and services; and benchmark good practices and initiatives.

72 LSWDOs and 54 representatives actively participated in the activity which included recognition of select LSWDOs for their impactful accomplishments. More so, prevalent, pressing and persistent problems relative to the 4Ps and other DSWD programs and services such as the Sustainable Livelihood Program, Assistance to Individuals-in-Crisis Situation, Adoption and Alternative Childhood Care, and the like were discussed. Enriching the activity even more are the participants’ responses and recommendations to the discussions.

Through a gallery walk dubbed as 4Ps Synergy Exhibit, the participants enjoyed the showcase of good practices and initiatives in the 4Ps implementation. Participants were encouraged to leverage these good practices for replication.

As the first in the Region, the convention concluded on a high note with a renewed sense of commitment and collaboration through the ceremonial reciting and signing of “A Promise for the 4Ps.” The LSWDOs pledged to uphold 4Ps goals and objectives; collaborate with other partners for responsive interventions; and advocate passage of necessary policies towards increasing graduating 4Ps household beneficiaries.

During the culmination, the participants expressed their excitement to be part of the LSWDOs Convention in the next years to foster continuous improvement through exchange of experiences and ideas across the region. (by: Mark Theodore M. Mamuyac, 4Ps Institutional Partnership Development Officer for LGUs)