DSWD Calls for Enhanced Support for Street Families and Individuals in Inter-Agency Effort

MANILA — In a concerted effort to bolster the welfare of families and individuals living in street situations, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has initiated a call for a more comprehensive package of services and interventions. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian spearheaded this advocacy during the first Inter-Agency Committee (IAC) meeting for Oplan Pag-Abot, which took place at the DSWD Central Office this Tuesday. This move aligns with the goals set forth by Executive Order (EO) 52, aiming to improve and consolidate the provision of social safety nets for the vulnerable and disadvantaged segments of the population.

According to Philippines news Agency, the imperative for such an initiative stems from the state’s failure to adequately support those in street situations, underscoring the need for the government to compensate for these shortcomings through enhanced social protection measures. The meeting was convened in the wake of EO 52, issued by Malacañang on January 18, which formalizes and broadens the scope of DSWD’s Oplan Pag-Abot by establishing an IAC tasked with overseeing outreach operations. Gatchalian, who chairs the committee, highlighted the necessity for post-reach-out care services from member agencies to address the risks and abuses faced by individuals and families living on the streets.

The DSWD aims to work closely with other government entities to assemble a comprehensive package of aftercare services, which may include assistance in farming, business start-up support, and other forms of ‘in kind’ aid. Gatchalian detailed the steps taken by Oplan Pag-Abot teams following outreach efforts, including temporary shelter provision, family reintegration, and economic assistance for relocation to provinces.

Oplan Pag-Abot distinguishes itself from traditional rescue operations by employing a rights-based approach and eschewing force. The initiative leverages technology, including biometric data collection and a tablet-based e-profiling tool with geo-tagging capabilities, to efficiently identify and assist those in need.

The meeting saw participation from various government agencies, including the Department of Education, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative Development Authority, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, among others. This collective endeavor underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the support system for individuals and families living in street situations, ensuring their access to vital services and opportunities for improvement.