The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V – Bicol Region, through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), recognized exemplary community volunteers and partners during the 11th Regional Bayani Ka! Awards, held on Monday, June 29, 2026.

Anchored on the theme “Pagsidlak,” this year’s awarding ceremony celebrated the inspiring stories of volunteerism, resilience, and transformative leadership demonstrated by KALAHI-CIDSS volunteers and partners across the Bicol Region. The event served as a tribute to individuals and organizations whose unwavering commitment has contributed to building stronger, more inclusive, and disaster-resilient communities.

This year’s awarding highlights the vital role of community volunteers as partners in implementing development initiatives through the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach. Their dedication has helped ensure that projects respond to the genuine needs of communities while fostering transparency, accountability, and active citizen participation.

In his message, DSWD Field Office V Regional Director Norman S. Laurio commended the awardees for embodying the true spirit of bayanihan and inspiring others through their selfless service.

“The success of KALAHI-CIDSS is rooted in the commitment of our volunteers. Their passion to serve continues to bring hope, strengthen communities, and create meaningful, lasting change,” he said.

This year’s Regional Bayani Ka! Award recipients were Mx. Mhario Manga for the Gender and Development Category; Ritchelda Bersola for the Indigenous Peoples’ Welfare Category; Gina Palero for the Environmental Protection Category; Lovelyn Bolaños for the Volunteerism Category; Lilibeth Masapol for the Exceptional Senior Citizen Category; Marisa Apusaga for the Exceptional Person with Disability Category; the Municipal Local Government Unit of San Fernando, Camarines Sur for the CDD Institutionalization Category; the Barangay Local Government Unit of Buenavista, Presentacion, Camarines Sur for the Improved Local Governance Category; and the San Joaquin Vegetables Farmers Association (SAJOVESPA) for the Operations and Maintenance Group Category.

More than a recognition ceremony, the event reaffirmed the DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS’ commitment to empowering communities by acknowledging the invaluable contributions of volunteers who have become catalysts for sustainable development.