Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) play a vital role in strengthening government efforts to uplift, empower, and protect the vulnerable, disadvantaged, and marginalized sectors of the society.
The International Holistic Engagement for Life and Progress (IHELP) – Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte Chapter, headed by Municipal Coordinator Pastor Modesto Dumlao, strongly believes that their engagement with the DSWD Field Office 1, since 2013, amplifies their intense desire to serve the people by sharing the same vision of the government in alleviating poverty through the Department’s core poverty reduction programs like the 4Ps.
“Together, we are breaking barriers, changing stereotypes, and rewriting narratives. As we look back on the 11 years of service, we are filled with gratitude for the lives touched, the futures transformed, and the hope restored. The journey continues, and we are ready to face the challenges ahead with resilience, passion, and unity,” Pastor Dumlao shared.
With the organization’s blazing passion to empower 4Ps household beneficiaries in the whole municipality, voluntary service has never been an issue because this is their sincerest way of fulfilling their calling and leave a mark in their chosen battle field while undertaking charitable social welfare programs among the needy and the poor consistent to the Christian humanitarian principles. This led the organization to the limelight as it was hailed as the National Awardee of the Salamat Po Award conferred by DSWD Central Office in 2021. Salamat Po Award is a commendation and recognition to Development Partners, Non-Government Organizations, and Volunteers that provided assistance in the Department’s delivery of social protection services and achievement of goals through their innovations and best practices.
IHELP – Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte Chapter intensifies the advocacy on the importance of strong family ties and relationship. During Family Development Sessions (FDS), they focus on role performance and family awareness to relevant issues. For many years of upholding this advocacy, IHELP – Pagudpud became an instrument in the restoration of broken families or marital relationships. Moreover, awareness on responsible parenthood increased among 4Ps household beneficiaries. It was also observed that the spiritual consciousness and active citizenship on community awareness of the household beneficiaries was magnified. With these remarkable impacts, the household beneficiaries named 13 IHELP – Pagudpud members as ‘heroes’ for being consistently dependable in lending a hand even in times of emergencies and calamities.
“Through facilitation of FDS, we have equipped parents with the necessary tools and knowledge to uplift their families from poverty. These sessions have not only provided practical skills such as financial management and spirituality but have also instilled a sense of self-worth and confidence in the beneficiaries,” Pastor Dumlao uttered.
The potential of the youth is essential in the eyes of IHELP – Pagudpud. The organization deeply recognizes the capabilities of the youth for being responsible citizens and become assets of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. For this reason, IHELP – Pagudpud whole heartedly engages in the conduct of Youth Development Sessions (YDS) in selected large high schools in the municipality. With this noble effort, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Pagudpud adopted the said intervention and selected IHELP as Learning Service Providers to visit the youth from barangays with incidence of teenage pregnancy.
“The YDS has been instrumental in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow. By providing mentorship, education, and skills training, we have empowered young people to dream big and aspire for a better future. Through workshops, seminars, and hands-on activities, we have cultivated a generation of ambitious, compassionate, and goal driven individuals ready to make a positive impact in their community”, Pastor Dumlao articulated.
Given the trust of the LGU with IHELP – Pagudpud, the organization is involved in the efforts in addressing societal issues of the Municipality. Pastor Dumlao religiously attends the monthly Municipal Advisory Council meetings representing all CSOs engaged with 4Ps. With this, IHELP – Pagudpud is not merely F/YDS facilitators but more importantly, counsellors and role models to the community.
IHELP – Pagudpud also extends its service not only to 4Ps household beneficiaries but to the whole community, as well. In partnership with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, the organization conducts pre-marriage counselling and rehabilitation programs by acting as Life Coach in the Moral Recovery Program for drug surrenderers of the Philippine National Police.
“As both individuals and as an organization, we have realized the profound impact of our work. Witnessing families become self-sufficient, children excel academically, and communities thrive for success have been a testament to the power of collective effort and unwavering commitment. By choosing to continue our engagement with 4Ps, we reaffirm our commitment as agents of change and catalysts for progress,” Pastor Dumlao uttered. Source: Salamat Po Award Best Volunteer Group Write Up (by: Jaesem Ryan A. Gaces, 4Ps Information Officer – Social Marketing Unit)
