Keen G. Valentin’s journey into social work began with a simple but eye-opening encounter. One day, he met a woman who quietly asked for help—just enough to buy food for her children. She wasn’t demanding, just tired and worried. Keen gave what he could, but as he walked away, the moment lingered. It made him realize that many others were struggling in ways that weren’t always visible, and he wanted to do more than just offer help in passing. He wanted to be part of something that could create real, lasting change. That realization led him to social work—a profession rooted in service, compassion, and empowerment.

In 2015, Keen took his first step into the field as a Community Facilitator under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Assigned to Malabog, Paquibato District in Davao City—an area known for insurgency—he quickly learned that social work goes beyond assistance; it requires presence, resilience, and a deep commitment to the people he serves. His role demanded not only providing immediate support but also guiding families toward long-term stability.

The challenges were real and often urgent. One day, a parent leader called him in distress, caught in the middle of an armed encounter between rebels and soldiers. In that moment, Keen had to act not just as a worker but as a protector. He immediately coordinated with his supervisor and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to mobilize assistance for the affected families. At the same time, he advised the parent leader to stay low and seek cover. The situation reinforced a truth that all social workers come to understand—there are no set hours, no easy tasks, and often, no clear boundaries between work and personal responsibility.

But beyond crisis response, social work is about transformation. For Keen, the most fulfilling part of his job has always been seeing individuals grow and overcome barriers. In the remote communities he served, he met people who had been left behind—individuals who lacked access to education, financial stability, or even the confidence to build better lives. One of them was a Matigsalug man who had never learned to read or write. Despite this, Keen saw his potential and entrusted him with the role of Parent Leader. Slowly, Keen taught him to write his name, then to read simple words, and over time, he gained enough confidence to take on greater responsibilities. Eventually, he became a Barangay Nutrition Scholar, proving that with the right support, progress is always possible. Another parent leader, who once struggled financially, attended Keen’s sessions on financial literacy and learned how to manage money effectively. Through patience and discipline, he was able to save enough to build a house for his family—an achievement that once seemed impossible.

In 2024, after nearly a decade of service, Keen became a licensed social worker—an achievement that reinforced his dedication to the profession. More than a title, it was a testament to his years of hard work, advocacy, and the deep belief that social work is not just about providing aid but about enabling people to take charge of their own lives.

On World Social Work Day, Keen’s story stands as a reminder of the crucial role that social workers play in communities. They are more than facilitators—they are advocates, problem-solvers, and catalysts for change. Their work often goes unnoticed, but the impact they create is lasting. Through resilience, patience, and an unwavering commitment to service, social workers like Keen continue to uplift individuals and strengthen communities, one life at a time.

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