In recognition of the vital role of community volunteers in advancing Community-Driven Development (CDD), the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Gubat, Sorsogon, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) program, celebrated the 1st KALAHI-CIDSS Community Volunteers’ Day on Monday, December 16, 2024.
The event, a first for Gubat, carried the theme: “Pasasalamat: Isang Pagpupugay sa mga Community Volunteers ng KALAHI-CIDSS na may Paglilingkod, Pagmamalasakit, at Paninindigan para sa Bayan.” This special occasion honored outstanding volunteers and communities who actively participated in and implemented the program.
In his address, Gubat Mayor Ronnel U. Lim emphasized the importance of recognizing the tireless dedication of volunteers as the National Community-Driven Development Program Additional Financing (NCDDP AF) comes to a close.
“Hindi lang po tayo nakakatulong sa ating pamayanan with our volunteering, we also expand our social network,” Mayor Lim remarked, highlighting the benefits of volunteerism not only for the community but also for individual growth.
(We not only help our community through volunteering, but we also expand our social network.)
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
The event recognized individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to the program’s success:
- Outstanding Subproject Implementation Adopting CEAC/DROM Process
Community Empowerment Activity Cycle (CEAC): Brgy. Panganiban
Disaster Response Operations Modality (DROM): Brgy. Beriran
- Exemplary Improved Local Governance
CEAC: Brgy. Manook
DROM: Brgy. Cogon
- Outstanding in Financial Management
CEAC: Brgy. Benguet
DROM: Brgy. Cogon
- Outstanding Operation and Maintenance
Brgy. Ogao
Individual Awards
- Nominee for the Regional Bayani Ka! Award for Volunteerism: Aurelio M. Enaje
- Nominee for the Regional Bayani Ka! Award for Exceptional Senior Citizen Volunteer: Rolando F. Escueta
- National and Regional Bayani Ka! Awardee for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management/Environment Protection: Edgar E. Espeloa, as President of the “Tulay sa Tibo People’s Organization”
- Outstanding Community Volunteer Award in KALAHI-CIDSS NCDDP AF Implementation
- Rolando F. Escueta – Barangay Development Council–Technical Working Group (BDC-TWG) Chairperson, Brgy. Nazareno
- Aurelio M. Enaje – BDC-TWG Chairperson, Brgy. Carriedo
- Amelia D. Oliveros – Procurement Team Head, Brgy. Cogon
- Rita F. Esquierra – BDC-TWG Chairperson, Brgy. Tiris
- Annie Joy E. Feratero – Bookkeeper, Brgy. Paradijon
- Outstanding Barangay Secretary in KALAHI-CIDSS NCDDP AF Implementation
- Sherryl E. Pura – Brgy. Beriran
- Shirley B. Pampula – Brgy. Ariman
- Marissa B. Deyto – Brgy. Luna Candol
- Marlon L. Estabaya – Brgy. Cogon
- Olivia E. Encinares – Brgy. Pinontingan
MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE
DSWD Field Office V Regional Director Norman S. Laurio commended LGU Gubat for spearheading the recognition of community volunteers, underscoring the importance of their work as the cornerstone of the program.
“As the program’s implementation in the municipality ends, we are grateful to LGU Gubat for leading this initiative to honor the KALAHI-CIDSS community volunteers. Recognizing their efforts, along with the support of local officials, is a significant gesture,” said Director Laurio.
He also assured that the DSWD would remain committed to supporting the volunteers in honing their skills and achieving their aspirations.
ABOUT DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS
KALAHI-CIDSS is a poverty alleviation program that employs the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach. It empowers communities in poor municipalities to identify challenges related to poverty, make informed decisions, and take control of resources to address these challenges effectively.
This celebration reflects the spirit of collaboration and gratitude, showcasing the collective efforts of volunteers and stakeholders in making a meaningful impact in their communities.