With the theme, Pamilyang Pilipino: Handang Tumawid sa Pag-Unlad, a total of 368 beneficiaries enjoyed Family Day Celebration at the Jose D. Aspiras Hall Gymnasium, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University South La Union Campus, Agoo, La Union.

Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya 2017 Provincial Winners were introduced to the crowd. They are as follows: Mendoza Family from Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur – Regional Winner; Castañeda Family from Laoac, Pangasinan-First Runner Up; Galiste Family from Tubao, La Union – Second Runner Up; and Arimbuyoten Family from Batac City, Ilocos Norte – Third Runner Up.

The Mendoza Family then attended the National Pantawid Pamilya Family Day Celebration in Metro Manila to receive a recognition.

Ms. Meralie Galiste shared the struggles of their family. According to her, she always makes her children feel her tender love and care despite all odds. She also teaches them the value of education and faith in God. She encouraged the other parents to guide their children.

All the beneficiaries renewed their oath of commitment led by Ms. Gloria Balangyao, Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya 2017 Ilocos Sur Provincial Entry. This is to remind them to continue being responsible in complying to the set conditions of the Program.

Sangguniang Bayan Member Hon. Antonio Eslao, graced the event while imposing a challenge to all the beneficiaries. He said, “Sa tulong ng Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program ng DSWD sa ilalim ng Administrasyong Duterte, makakaahon tayo, tumawid tayo sa kaunlaran. Huwag tayong tumawid sa kabilang buhay na walang iniwan sa ating mga anak. (With the aid of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program under Duterte Administration, we can improve our lives, let us cross the poverty line. We should not perish without leaving any legacy to our children).”

 The families were thrilled with the parlor games, raffle draws and prizes given to them. A photo booth was also installed for the families to have a souvenir photo.

Partner agencies also participated while extending their services to the families like National Nutrition Council, PhilHealth-La Union, Commission on Population Regional Office 1, and Heritage Baptist Church. Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center offered Free Medical Mission while La Union Provincial Health Office rendered Dental Mission.

Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations in Agoo displayed their products for sale and free spa services.

Ms. Rosalyn L. Descallar, Regional Program Coordinator, hoped that all the families were filled with joy. She also emphasized that unity and love keep the family strong and that each member of the family has a vital role to improve their quality of life. (by: Jaesem Ryan A. Gaces, Information Officer II/Pantawid Pamilya)