The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI is gearing up for the 2025 implementation of its KALAHI-CIDSS (Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services) program. This preparation involved active participation in the 2025 National KALAHI-CIDSS Work and Financial Planning (WFP) workshop held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, from June 3-7, 2024.

The delegation from DSWD XI was led by Assistant Regional Director for Administration, Merlinda A. Paragamac, who is also the former chief of the Promotive Services Division. The team included Deputy Regional Program Manager Giovani R. Yugo; Supervising Administrative Officer Billie Jane O. Cadayona; Social Development Unit Head Harold L. Balandra; Capability Building Unit Head Johan T. Yhuan; Monitoring and Evaluation Unit Head Elvira B. Anduyan; Engineering Unit Head Aillyn M. Arrobio; Procurement Unit Head Michelle Mikkie W. Salegon; and Communications Officer Ezri M. Coda Jr.

As the National Community-Driven Development Program-Additional Financing (NCDDP-AF) and the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) programs are set to conclude this year, the focus of the financial planning was on the remaining modalities and securing additional funding for the PMNP from the Government of Hungary. Additionally, the new disaster-responsive modality named ‘Panahon ng Pagkilos’ was also a key point of discussion.

DRPM Yugo, the Unit Heads, and Director Paragamac presented and defended the proposed budget. The team received valuable recommendations and feedback to enhance the budget and improve the implementation strategies for the following year.

During the 2024 National KALAHI-CIDSS Summit held in Mandaue City, Cebu, from April 20-26, 2024, KALAHI-CIDSS National Program Manager Atty. Bernadette Mapue-Joaquin highlighted that Field Office XI is among the top regions in terms of financial obligations for NCDDP-AF and PMNP.

As DSWD XI looks ahead to the 2025 implementation of the KALAHI-CIDSS program, it remains steadfast in its dedication to improving the lives of the communities. The insights gained and strategies developed during the financial planning workshop will serve as a strong foundation for its future endeavors for a more inclusive and resilient society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. (DSWD XI/EMCJr)

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