3 Cebu LGUs win in DSWD-7 contest

CEBU, Philippines — Local government units (LGUs) in Cebu won a landslide victory among the 25 LGUs in Central Visayas in the “Color Me Station” contest during the month-long Adoption Consciousness celebration of the Department of Social Welfare and Development-7.

The municipalities of Pilar and Balamban and City of Naga won first, second and third, respectively, in the LGU category for their creative and artistic design.

Different divisions and units of DSWD-7 also showcased their creativity and craftsmanship in designing their adoption theme corner.

The Reception and Study Center for Children emerged as the winner among the 13 entries while the Social Welfare and Development Cebu and the Crisis Intervention Section placed as second and third place, respectively.

The Color Your Station highlights the celebration’s theme, which is “Pagmamahal Palaganapin, Legal na Pag-aampon Ating Gawin!” and DSWdmD-7 awarded those who creatively decorated the interior and exterior of their local social welfare and development office and other conspicuous space within their city or municipal hall.

DSWD-7 said the celebration aims to call for public attention and ensure nationwide awareness on legal adoption of orphaned, abandoned and neglected Filipino children in need of permanent homes.

Meanwhile, DSWD-7 honored its partners and volunteers in their efforts and contributions in helping to achieve inclusive development and participation among sectors in society through the Pagkilala sa Natatanging Kontribusyon sa Bayan or the PaNata ko sa Bayan Award.

The recognition of awardees was conducted during its 70th Founding Anniversary Culminating Activity wherein DSWD Secretary Rolando Joselito Bautista thanked “all hardworking personnel as well as various stakeholders for the many contributions they have provided to service and uplift the lives of the marginalized segments of society for the past 70 years.”

Bautista in his speech applauded the genuine and non-stop service to the people in Central Visayas in spite of the risk of COVID-19.

During the event, the DSWD-7 acknowledged its partners through the PaNata ko sa Bayan Award for their efforts and vow to share their resources, time, and selves in providing for a better opportunity for the disadvantaged sectors to have equal access to opportunities.

Through the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence or PRAISE Awards, DSWD-7 also recognized its staff who have rendered innovative ideas, exemplary services that contribute to the efficiency, economy, and improvement of government operations.

DSWD-7 likewise unveiled its insignia representing the region and conveying the kind of service it offers to its stakeholders with its motto: “Gabay at Serbisyo tungo sa isang maunlad na Pamayanan.” — KQD (FREEMAN)