VIRAC, CATANDUANES — As directed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian headed the distribution of different services during the Handog ng Pangulo Caravan in Catanduanes, today, September 14, 2026.
The Handog ng Pangulo Serbisyo Caravan is a simultaneous nationwide multi-agency activity, in which all the National Government Agencies bring their programs and services closer to Filipinos through a one-stop-shop event.
As part of the collaborative service mission, Secretary Gatchalian led the awarding of cheques to four Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPAs). The Agency also distributed freshly-cooked hot meals, and family food facks (FFPs) to Abaca Farmers affected by the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat.
In addition, DSWD Chief also joined the DSWD Field Office V-Bicol Region in distributing the second tranche of Unified Package for Livelihood, Industry, and Transport (UPLIFT) Assistance to 500 Bucket 2 beneficiaries from Virac, Catanduanes.
The UPLIFT Payout for the month of August commenced today and will continue in the succeeding days in different municipalities.
Financial Service Providers (FSP) including BDO Unibank, Inc. and Develoment Bank of the Philippines (DBP) were present in the venue to provide services to UPLIFT beneficiaries, particularly in online registration.
Together with Secretary Gatchalian was Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, and DSWD Bicol Regional Director Norman S. Laurio.
Highlights of the Handog ng Pangulo also includes the massive job opportunities for Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries. The event was designed to help families achieve long-term self-sufficiency.
Furthermore, the Field Office V also set-up Tamang Tulong sa Tamang Impormasyon (3Ti) Booth to provide information about the Agency’s programs and services.
With strong support from local government units, partner agencies, and grassroots organizations, DSWD Bicol reaffirmed its dedication to realizing the President’s vision of “Serbisyo Para sa Lahat” — ensuring that no Filipino is left behind.
Source: DSWD Bicol Region