Digos City (DSWD XI) – A total of 229 beneficiaries from the province of Davao del Sur graduated during the Closing Ceremony in Security Services on June 5 at Crisbelle Crown Center, Digos City.

The training was conducted through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) and the Sultan Kudarat Security Training Academy, Inc.

Regional Director Mercedita P. Jabagat in her speech reminded the graduates of the proper handling of clients especially of minors and senior citizens in their job as Security Guards. “Kamo modelo dili lang sa inyong pamilya, kung dili pati na pud sa inyong mga employer (You are models not only of your family but also of your employers).”

The graduation ceremony was also graced by Regional Civil Security Unit (RCSU) XI Chief Supt. Cydric Earl Tamayo. He challenged all the graduates to stand by with all the principles taught to them during the whole training. “You are soldiers of the private sector now.”

Mr. Robert H. Panes, President and CEO of the training academy, urged all the graduates to do their roles as others have done theirs already. “DSWD-SLP has done its part in providing you with the funds for your training. We have done our part in teaching you during the training. Now, as graduates, it’s time to do your part.”

Some graduates were also recognized for having aced their assessments, for having exemplary leadership skills, and for showcasing bravery all throughout the training.

SLP together with the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KaLaHi-CIDSS) are the three major poverty-reduction programs of the government being spearheaded by DSWD.