Gatchalian honors 4Ps personnel in Central Visayas

CEBU, Philippines — Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian paid tribute to the personnel behind the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Central Visayas, calling them the agency’s “Angels in Red Vests” in recognition of their dedication to the government’s flagship poverty reduction program.

During his recent visit to the DSWD-7 regional office, Gatchalian met with members of the Regional Program Management Office (RPMO) and thanked them for their commitment, compassion, and years of service in helping improve the lives of millions of Filipino families.

The recognition was part of the 18th anniversary celebration of the 4Ps, where RPMO personnel received letters of appreciation from the DSWD chief. The activity also included a group photo with the employees holding their appreciation letters.

In his message, Gatchalian acknowledged the workers’ resilience and dedication throughout the program’s 18-year implementation.

“You have walked with families through uncertainty, hope, frustration, and growth. You have witnessed children graduate. You have supported parents who dared to dream bigger for their families,” Gatchalian wrote.

He also recognized the challenges of public service, saying it requires resilience, empathy, and unwavering belief even when progress appears slow.

The DSWD secretary thanked the employees for remaining committed to the program.

“Thank you for choosing to stay. Thank you for choosing to care. Thank you for being the quiet strength behind the success of the 4Ps,” he said.

The recognition covered all 1,127 4Ps personnel in DSWD Field Office 7, including staff from the RPMO and those assigned to provincial, cluster, city, and municipal operations serving communities across Cebu and Bohol.

Among those recognized was Roland Mesterio, Administrative Assistant II of the RPMO and one of the pioneering members of the 4Ps in Central Visayas.

Reflecting on his 18 years with the program, Mesterio said even administrative work plays a vital role in ensuring the success of the government’s poverty alleviation efforts.

He said every document processed, report completed, and support provided contributes to the continued delivery of services to beneficiaries, adding that his work has become more than just a job but a mission he is proud to serve.

The anniversary celebration carried the theme, “SINAG: Labing Walong Taon ng Pagbibigay Liwanag sa Pangarap, Pagtataya, Pagbabago at Pagtataguyod,” highlighting nearly two decades of providing education, health, nutrition, and sustainable development interventions to poor and vulnerable households.

According to DSWD, the recognition reaffirms the department’s commitment to strengthening social protection programs while honoring the contributions of its “Angels in Red Vests,” whose work continues to bring hope and opportunities to thousands of families in Central Visayas. — (FREEMAN)