DSWD7 turns 60; awards employees, partners

CEBU, Philippines - The field office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Region 7 marked its 60th year recently by recognizing its top employees and partners.

Aileen Cuevas was awarded as Best Social Worker for 2010, social worker and training officer Lilibeth Cabiara was awarded as Best Technical Staff – Professional Category, Timotea Gadapan was awarded Best Technical Staff – Sub-professional Category, budget officer Antonio Dolaota was awarded Best Support Staff – Professional Category, Rosita Ricardo was awarded Best Support Staff Sub- Professional Category, Maricor Agpasa was awarded Best MOA Worker, and Social Welfare Officer 1V Shalaine Marie Lucero was awarded Best Division Chief.

Fourteen employees received loyalty awards for continued service to DSWD for 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 years, respectively.

The office also gave out the “Salamat Po” award to the International Justice Mission (IJM) and the “Gawad sa Panglilingkod Para Sa Sambayanan (GAPAS) Award to the Municipality of Siquijor.

The awarding ceremony was held at the DSWD-7 Regional Office shortly after the blessing of DSWD’s new North Wing Building. Fourth District Rep. Benhur Salimbangon led the cutting of the ribbon.  

In her message, DSWD Assistant Regional Director OIC Nemia Antipala took pride of the fact that DSWD has received the highest approval and satisfaction rating for the past four years. The agency has also been named the least corrupt government agency.

“Here we are at 60, still doing what we do best, offering service without counting the cost, without expecting anything in return,” Antipala said.   Other activities included a dance competition that revived music and moves from the 60’s to the 90’s, a cheering competition, sports competition and parlor games. 

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Committed Social Services with Integrity.” — (FREEMAN)