Labo, Camarines Norte – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD Bicol) participated in the two-day conduct of Serbisyo Caravan “Para sa Masa” in Labo, Camarines Norte last September 21 to 22, 2017.

At least 26 Pantawid Pamilya Pilipinong Program (4Ps) beneficiaries from Barangays Maot, Pag-asa, Baay and Malibago receive their cash grants under over-the-counter mode during the offsite payout held at Labo Convention Center.

With the theme, “Nagkakaisa Para Sa Pagbabago”, this initiative among the Tsokolate at Pandesal (TAP) member-agencies and various stakeholders aims to bring the services of government agencies closer to the community.

During the first day of the caravan, at least 26 Pantawid Pamilya Pilipinong Program (4Ps) beneficiaries from Barangays Maot, Pag-asa, Baay and Malibago received their cash grants under over-the-counter mode during the offsite payout held at Labo Convention Center.

Simultaneously, DSWD V conducted Family Planning and Family Development Session (FDS) to 52 beneficiaries with Population Commission. The topics discussed were Responsible Parenthood & Reproductive Health/ Family Planning which provides insights and enhances awareness of the beneficiaries regarding reproductive health care thus giving information on how to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Also, materials particularly the Buntis Kit for pregnant women attendees were provided.

Further, more or less 300 daycare pupils attended the feeding program initiated by MSWDO Labo, Camarines Norte.

Meanwhile, one of the highlights of the first day caravan was the awarding of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) V of its various projects and grants to 94 beneficiaries amounting to PhP 1,669,979.00.

At least 35 beneficiaries of Barangay Maot received a grant amounting to Php 641,316.00. Also, 30 beneficiaries of Barangay Pag-asa and 29 beneficiaries of Barangay Malibago received an amount of Php 496,870.00 and Php 531,793.00, respectively.

On the other hand, other government agencies awarded 50 DOH Buntis Kits and 100 water containers, assorted vegetable seeds, livelihood grants to cluster 1-Brgys, goods to “Project Angel Tree” beneficiaries, school bags, hygiene kits, school supplies, goodies, food packs, teaching materials from the Bicol University.

Concurrently, medical, dental, distribution of medicine, and health and wellness services to more or less 800, 300, 1100 and 100 beneficiaries were conducted, respectively.

Said caravan was initiated by the 9th Civil Military Operations (KAAGAPAY) Battalion headed by LTC Patrick E. Cinco together with TAP members in the region including DSWD, DOLE, DPWH, DILG, NFA, DENR, DOH, DOST, MGB, POPCOM, CDA, NHA, DAR, DA, NCIP, PDEA, TESDA and Bicol University along with uniformed personnel from 5TH RCDG, ARESCOM, PA, TOG5, NAVFORSOL and CNPO.

It was graced by Assistant Secretary of DOLE Federico Abuan Jr as the Guest of Honor and Speaker together with the Regional Directors of DENR V Forester Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez, Ms Cleta Omega of TESDA V, Dir. Rovelinda A Dela Rosa of DOLE V, Asst. Regional Director for Operations of DSWD V, Mr. Arwin Razo, Brigade Commander of 902ndBde COL Peale Jon P. Bondoc, OG7, 9ID, PA LTC Erick Culvera, Group Commander of TOG5 LTC Ulysess Mancao.

Also present were Provincial Government of Cam Norte headed by GOVERNOR EDGARDO TALLADO and LGU of Labo headed by Mayor Joseph V Ascutia

On Day 2, the caravan was held at the Barangay Covered Court of Exciban, Labo, Camarines Norte. Similar activities were held. Various parlor games with exciting prizes were given to participants. /jveg/