IN a significant move towards further enhancing social services and addressing pressing matters in the city, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian convened a meeting with Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando 'Klarex' Uy.
City Mayor's Office chief of staff Shiela Lumbatan said the meeting, held at the Mayor's office in City Hall on Wednesday afternoon, aimed to discuss various issues related to social services and devise appropriate strategies to alleviate the challenges faced by the local community.
Accompanied by DSWD 10 regional director Ramel F. Jamen and his team, Secretary Gatchalian, a former city mayor of Valenzuela and congressman of Valenzuela's 1st district, expressed his commitment to working closely with Mayor Uy to strengthen the social service programs in Cagayan de Oro City.
Lumbatan said, the meeting provided an invaluable opportunity for the two officials to discuss and exchange ideas on how to further improve the delivery and accessibility of these services to the community members.
"One of the key highlights of the meeting was the discussion on bolstering the existing social welfare initiatives," Lumbatan said.
Secretary Gatchalian and Mayor Uy explored the possibility of implementing innovative approaches to reach out to marginalized sectors, such as the creation of mobile assistance units that would provide immediate aid to those in need, especially in far-flung areas where access to social services is limited.
Additionally, Lumbatan said the officials addressed the issue of poverty alleviation and ways to uplift the lives of impoverished families.
They brainstormed on potential collaborations with various stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations and the private sector, to ensure that sustainable livelihood opportunities are made available to the underprivileged.
Secretary Gatchalian emphasized the need for a holistic approach that encompasses skills training, entrepreneurship support, and access to micro-financing, which will enable individuals to rise above poverty.
Recognizing the importance of child welfare in the community, Lumbatan also added Gatchalian and Uy also discussed strategies to reinforce the protection and well-being of children.
"They deliberated on efforts to strengthen child care and protection centers, as well as mechanisms to enhance the implementation of child rights and welfare programs," said Lumbatan.
She said the officials also agreed to work hand in hand to ensure that the local government's programs are aligned with national policies and standards set by the DSWD.
Furthermore, Lumbatan stressed that the secretary and his team pledged to extend full support to the local government's response to emergencies and disasters.
They discussed the importance of having a comprehensive disaster management plan that includes provisions for emergency relief and post-disaster rehabilitation, Lumbatan explained.
She said the meeting emphasized the need for collaboration and coordination among different government agencies to effectively respond to crises and provide timely assistance to affected communities.
"In conclusion, the meeting between Secretary Gatchalian and Mayor Uy signifies a strong commitment to improving social services and addressing the community's pressing needs in Cagayan de Oro City," she said.
Also, both officials affirmed their dedication to working together and exploring innovative solutions to ensure that the welfare of every individual, especially the most vulnerable, is safeguarded.
"By forging partnerships and pooling resources, they aim to create a more inclusive and resilient community that prioritizes the well-being and progress of all its members," Lumbatan said.
