The Philippine government has launched new social welfare initiatives aimed at creating lasting opportunities and improving the lives of Filipinos.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. unveiled these programs during the 74th-anniversary celebration of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on Tuesday.
“Every single centavo spent, every program implemented, and every decision made must serve a clear purpose: to create opportunities that endure, uplift, and reach far beyond just today,” the President stated.
New Initiatives for Streamlined Services and Family Support
Among the key programs introduced are:
- Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS): A digital platform designed to simplify the application process for licenses and permits.
- Minors Traveling Abroad System: A modernized system ensuring the safety of children traveling overseas by streamlining the travel clearance process.
- Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Program: A comprehensive initiative supporting Filipino families through three key components:
- Bagong Pamilyang Pilipino – Strengthening family foundations.
- Bumabangon sa Gitna ng mga Hamon – Assisting families in overcoming challenges.
- Maunlad at Matatag na Pamilya – Promoting economic and social stability.
- Expanding Support for Vulnerable Sectors
President Marcos also highlighted the achievements of long-standing social welfare programs:
- Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps): Over 4.05 million households have benefited, with nearly 678,000 families attaining self-sufficiency. The program has also helped more than one million high school students graduate, along with 477,000 elementary school children.
- Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP): Supported 270,902 individuals in securing sustainable income sources.
- Social Pension for Senior Citizens: Provided financial assistance to approximately 4.28 million elderly Filipinos in 2024 to help cover daily and medical expenses.
Disaster Relief and Recovery Efforts
DSWD remains at the forefront of disaster response, assisting at least 7.4 million Filipino families through its Quick Response Fund (QRF). Additionally, 540,396 individuals received early recovery services to help them rebuild their lives.
During the event, President Marcos commended the dedication of DSWD personnel:
“You are the first to respond but the last to sleep. While others sought shelter from the storm, you walked into the chaos to deliver relief. You have saved lives, brought hope, and demonstrated the true power of compassion,” he said.
Vision for a United and Inclusive Nation
The President called for continued collaboration to build a stronger, more inclusive Philippines.
“Let us build a Bagong Pilipinas—a nation where every citizen has a chance to dream, strive, and succeed. A country where compassion is not merely a value, but a way of life,” he emphasized.
With these initiatives, the government aims to create a lasting impact, ensuring that every Filipino has access to opportunities that lead to a better future.
