DSWD XI, CPD XI forge partnership on Social Protection and PopDevThe Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office XI (DSWD XI) and the Commission on Population and Development Region XI (CPD XI) have officially forged a partnership through a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held on July 4, 2025, at the Regional Learning Resource Center, DSWD XI Regional Office.

The collaboration aims to strengthen the integration of population and development (PopDev) initiatives in social protection programs through a whole-of-government approach. The partnership emphasizes the importance of addressing population dynamics, reproductive health, and adolescent development, especially among the poor and vulnerable households served by the 4Ps.

Present during the signing were Merlinda A. Paragamac, OIC-Regional Director of DSWD XI; Rutchie C. Saluta, Acting Regional Director of CPD XI; Honey Grace U. Aguba, Population Program Officer III of CPD XI; Gemma D. Dela Cruz, OIC Assistant Regional Director for Operations and Chief of the Protective Services Division; and Margie Cabido-Sobretodo, Division Chief of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

Under the MOA, CPD XI will work with various government and non-government partners to implement the Regional Population and Development Program of Action (RPD-POA). It will also conduct research on population issues and raise awareness on how these affect communities and development planning.

In support of these efforts, DSWD XI will strengthen the integration of Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RPFP) and Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) topics in Family and Youth Development Sessions under the 4Ps program. These sessions aim to help families and young people make informed decisions about health, family life, and personal development.

The partnership also focuses on expanding support to vulnerable sectors such as adolescent parents, informal settlers, indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community, and children in need of special protection. Through the agreement, both agencies aim to deliver more inclusive and responsive programs and services.

A key component is the implementation of the ProtecTEEN Program, which provides support to at-risk adolescents. DSWD XI will guide LGUs in planning interventions, identifying eligible beneficiaries, and addressing challenges in program delivery.

Additionally, DSWD XI will continue promoting functional Teen Centers, advocate for pre-marriage counseling, and conduct research to improve policies and services for Filipino families.

This inter-agency collaboration marks a significant step in aligning population and development strategies with the broader social protection agenda of DSWD XI. By working together, both agencies aim to enhance the delivery of inclusive, rights-based, and people-centered programs that respond to the needs of individuals, families, and communities across Region XI

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