SMX Convention Center, Pasay City
February 18, 2025

“Kung tao ‘yan, may senior citizen’s card na ‘yan. Nag-e-enjoy na ng discount sa grocery at saka sa mga priority lane. But when it comes to serving the public, the DSWD remains as spritely, as committed, and even a better organization than it was when you began,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. lightly remarked when he joined the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in its 74th anniversary celebration at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

In his keynote speech, the President recognized the Department’s core social programs that demonstrated its unyielding effort to build a resilient and inclusive society where no one is left behind, as well as the remarkable accomplishments made under these programs. These are the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC), and the utilization of the Quick Response Fund (QRF) — a dedicated resource for swift and effective disaster response.

“As we commemorate the past, we must also prepare for the future. That future demands modernization, efficiency, accessibility. That’s why today, we launch our new initiatives,” he said, citing the DSWD’s newest programs under the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ vision.

These include the Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS) that streamlines the application process for licenses and permits — making it faster for stakeholders to access DSWD services; the Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) system which forms part of the HELPS that modernizes the travel clearance process for Filipino minors; and the Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Program which aims to strengthen family development and welfare in every stage of life.

The Chief Executive acknowledged the steadfast actions of the DSWD and their courage, particularly during recent calamities which have been “nothing short of ordinary”.

“‘Ika nga, 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. For that, the country is grateful. For that, your President is grateful,” he conveyed.

He further called on his countrymen for their continued support, as the success of these programs does not rest on the DSWD alone, but on the collective determination and effort of all.

“Let us build a Bagong Pilipinas — a nation where every citizen has the chance to dream, to strive, to succeed. A country where compassion is not merely a value, but a way of life. A Philippines where no one gets left behind,” President Marcos Jr. concluded in his message.

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