Davao City (DSWD) – Some 180 members of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) Davao City chapter attended the annual PASWI General Assembly held recently at the 8th floor Training Hall of Ateneo De Davao University.

PASWI is composed of professional social workers from the academe, medical sector, national agencies, local government units, non-government organizations, religious sector, civil society organizations and industrial sector.

Keynote speaker was Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Undersecretary Mae Fe Ancheta-Templa who underscored in her message the new vision, mission and core values of the Department as well as the DSWD organizational outcomes.

“We are determined to pursue radical social work… I salute your cooperation and collaboration in this endeavor,” Usec. Ancheta-Templa addressed social workers who were present.

Also discussed were DSWD Recovery and Reintegration Program for Drug Surrenderers, and the Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Initiative in Davao City.

Further, PASWI Davao members who conducted a study tour in Australia shared their exposure with Queensland University Social Work Program, Queensland University of Technology, World Wellness Community Clinic, Salvation Army, Challenge Empowerment and Training, and with Multi-Cultural Development Agency.

Theme for the annual gathering was Promoting Community and Environmental Sustainability.

PASWI is the only social worker’s professional organization accredited by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC). Founded on November 12, 1947 and a member of the International Federation of Social Workers, PASWI provides its members and partners opportunities for continuing professional education and career advancement.

According to president of PASWI Davao Liwayway A. Caligdong, the organization is focused in promoting the cause of the poor, disadvantaged and marginalized sectors of society, and enhancing the knowledge and skills of social work professionals.

Caligdong said past projects of PASWI Davao include Fun Run For-A-Cause, and skills enhancement seminar on Compassion Fatigue and Personality Enhancement, among others. PASWI also leads the annual celebration of World Social Work Day and hosts the annual Oath Taking for Passers of Social Work Licensure Examination, Caligdong added. (DSWD)