Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has brought its programs and services closer to the people of the Negros Island Region (NIR) with the opening of a new Field Office (FO) and Social Welfare and Development (SWAD) satellite office in Barangay Talay, Dumaguete City. The inauguration was led by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, alongside agency officials, NIR congressional representatives, and local officials.

According to Philippines News Agency, the opening of the field office marks the fulfillment of a long-standing goal to bring public service closer to communities. Secretary Gatchalian emphasized the importance of the new office, stating, “Today is a testament of that vision of bringing services closer to our people.” He also mentioned the hope for a future permanent home for the office that the government will own and build to accommodate more clients.

Gatchalian highlighted the significant role of DSWD personnel, referred to as the ‘Angels in Red Vests,’ in making the new office meaningful for the clients. He noted that while the office itself is important, the dedication and care of the staff are crucial for effective service delivery. “The office is only 25 percent of the equation. The 75 percent — kayo ‘yun (that’s you),” he stated, urging staff to deliver service with “extra love and extra care.”

With the new office, residents of the NIR can now directly access various programs such as financial assistance, disaster response, social pension, livelihood aid, and other welfare services.