DSWD honors Quezon Province and municipalities for PaNata Ko Sa Bayan Awards

By Rowena Cruz Provincial Administrator Manuel S. Butardo (left) and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Sonia Leyson (right) ...

By Rowena Cruz

Provincial Administrator Manuel S. Butardo (left) and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Sonia Leyson (right) with DSWD representatives at the 'PaNata Ko Sa Bayan Awards.' (Quezon PIO)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Demonstrating a profound commitment to community welfare, Quezon Province and its municipalities have once again earned prestigious recognition for their impactful social programs. The Province of Quezon and several of its municipalities have been recognized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for their outstanding contributions to social welfare services.

As part of its 74th anniversary celebration, themed "Bawat Pamilyang Pilipino ay Mahalaga sa Bagong Pilipinas," the DSWD held the '2024 Pagkilala Sa Natatanging Kontribusyon Sa Bayan (PaNata Ko Sa Bayan) Awards' on Tuesday, March 11, at the Sequoia Hotel in Parañaque City. This event recognized the exceptional achievements of local government units, including Quezon Province, in delivering crucial social services.



Quezon Province received the "Gawad Serbisyo" award for its efficient disaster response and a "Special Award (Most Comprehensive Report)" for its effective implementation of Social Welfare and Development Laws. Provincial Administrator Manuel S. Butardo and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Sonia Leyson accepted the honors.

In addition to the province's recognition, several municipalities within Quezon were also celebrated for their dedication to social services. Tagkawayan received the "Gawad Sa Paglilingkod Sa Sambahayan" award for its work through the KALAHI-CIDSS (Kapit-Bisig Laban Sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services) program.







Perez received a Special Citation for outstanding KALAHI-CIDSS implementation and its continuous efforts to deliver programs that promote the ongoing development of its citizens. Gumaca was recognized as a Model LGU for implementing the Supplementary Feeding Program – Municipal Level. Sampaloc was honored as the Best Implementing LGU in Social Pension, and Mulanay was recognized for excellence in active community involvement for Day Care Services.

Candelaria was distinguished with the prestigious 'Paglaray Awards' and received the 'Prime Mover Award in CALABARZON – Municipal Level.' This first-time accolade for Candelaria showcases the dedication and effort of the Municipal Government.

The 'PaNata Ko Sa Bayan Awards,' an annual DSWD event, honors individuals, groups, and organizations that have significantly contributed to enhancing social welfare services nationwide. This year's awards highlighted diverse efforts across the CALABARZON region, emphasizing the importance of community-driven initiatives and the effective implementation of DSWD programs.

The recognitions spanned a range of categories, from disaster response and poverty alleviation to the empowerment of vulnerable sectors, demonstrating the multi-faceted approach to social welfare development. The awards aim to inspire continued dedication and innovation in serving the Filipino people, particularly those in need.

Governor Angelina "Helen" Tan of Quezon Province reaffirmed the Provincial Government's commitment to continuous improvement in public service and the successful execution of programs focused on citizen well-being. She emphasized that these awards serve as motivation to further enhance their social welfare initiatives and ensure that every citizen receives the support they need.