In preparation for the terminal report of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI for the closure of a key modality under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) namely, the National Community-Driven Development Project-Additional Financing (NCDDP-AF), DSWD Field Office XI conducted pilot testing for Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key In-Depth Interviews (KIIs) with community volunteers and program implementers in the Municipality of Boston, Davao Oriental on July 18-19, 2024.

Led by Capability Building Unit Head Johan T. Yhuan, Training Specialist IV, the research team included Training Specialists II Real Freya E. Blanco and Dhen P. Geollegue, Administrative Officer II Patrick Karl N. Ambrosio, along with Social Marketing Officer III Ezri M. Coda Jr. The pilot testing aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Capability Building and Learning and Development (LD) interventions and gather feedback on various aspects of the programs.

The objectives of the FGDs and KIIs were multifaceted, aiming to evaluate the effectiveness of Capability Building and LD interventions and document good practices and success stories from Municipal Coordinating Teams (MCT), Area Coordinating Teams (ACT), and Community Volunteers (CV) that highlight the impact of the training provided. Additionally, the discussions sought to assess the improvements in knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSA) among participants resulting from the interventions, identify challenges and areas for improvement in the implementation of capacity-building interventions to better support program operationalization, and collect feedback on the overall experience and impact of the capacity building and learning interventions on various stakeholders.

During the FGDs and KIIs, participants shared their experiences, challenges, and successes in implementing the NCDDP-AF. These discussions provided valuable insights into how the training and capacity-building interventions have influenced their work and community outcomes.

The pilot testing marks a significant step towards the closure of the NCDDP-AF, ensuring that the lessons learned and knowledge gained from these projects are systematically captured and utilized. This effort reflects DSWD XI’s commitment to continuous improvement and effective knowledge management, ultimately aiming to enhance the delivery of social services and support to communities. 

As DSWD XI moves forward with the terminal report, the insights gathered from the pilot testing in Boston, Davao Oriental, will play a pivotal role in shaping the final recommendations and strategies for future programs. The department remains dedicated to empowering communities and driving sustainable development through collaborative and inclusive approaches.

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