Davao City –“As we mark our 65^th Founding Anniversary on February 16^th, we are happy to recognize our partners and volunteers who have immensely contributed in the implementation of our various programs and projects here in Region XI,” announced Regional Director of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Mercedita P. Jabagat.

With the national theme, DSWD @65: Mga Kuwentong Tagumpay Tungo sa Masaganang Pagbabago, the regional office here will honor its valued partners and volunteers in a simple Awarding Ceremonies at Apo View Hotel in the afternoon of Tuesday, February 16.

As early as now, let me express my warmest congratulations to our honorees who have been unselfishly helping us deliver best our mandate, Director Jabagat said.

DSWD awardees during this milestone celebration are Gov. Arturo T. Uy, Carmelito Q. Francisco, DXRD Sonshine Radio, Pedro B. San Jose, Kriztja Marae G. Labrador, Francis L. Bayer, Holcim Philippines, Pantawid Parent Leader Lolita A. Tano, EMAR Human and Environmental College, Ateneo De Davao High School, Lao Integrated Farms, LGU Mati City, Silver SEA-K Association of Laak, LGU Monkayo and LGU Davao City.

Some 29 local government units will be recipients of the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance.

National awardees as Best Public Servant -DSWD Team Leader of Davao Oriental Gemma Dolor Dela Cruz, Best Functioning Municipal Action Team -Sta. Maria of Davao Occidental, and implementer of Best Convergence Initiative -DSWD Davao City District 2 Action Team, will also be awarded during this regional celebration.

Meanwhile, DSWD employees who have served the department from 10 up to 40 years will likewise be recognized including former Region XI Director Priscilla N. Razon and Assistant Director Ma. Vilia L. Vigil, who both have rendered public service in the last 40 years.

Keynote speaker at the anniversary program is Undersecretary of DSWD Vilma B. Cabrera.

To be participated by all DSWD units and offices throughout the region, other activities are Thanksgiving Mass, Opening Parade, Sports Festival, Parlor Games, Your Face Sounds Familiar Contest, Retro Dance Contest, Opening of Adoption Consciousness Week, and Press Conference at SM City Ecoland Annex. (DSWD)