DSWD holds Panaghiusa fest

CEBU CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Central Visayas has again staged the “Panaghiusa Festival” at the Ayala Center Cebu here.

Panaghiusa in Cebuano means solidarity.

The activity, which is on its third year, is geared toward increasing public awareness on DSWD programs, services and accomplishments.

The festival also highlights the positive impact of the programs in the lives of its partner-beneficiaries through their success stories.

“For this year, we will invite partner-beneficiaries in order to share their inspiring stories and how they were able to rise above the challenges they face in their day to day life,” said DSWD Regional Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre.

“We want the beneficiaries to be a model and inspiration to others so that they will not give up easily in pursuing their dreams and aspirations,” Macapobre said.

Among the activities lined up are the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) job fair, a festival parade, a trade exhibit, and the awarding of the 2017 Regional Search for Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya, Exemplary Pantawid Pamilya Children and KalahiCIDSS Bayani Ka! winners.

Macapobre will also deliver the state of the region address at the event which ends on Friday.

For the trade exhibit, SLP products from Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental and Siquijor will be displayed and sold at the rotunda of the shopping mall.

“Aside from DSWD internal convergence, DSWD recognizes the contribution of various partners and stakeholders like other national government agencies (NGAs) that’s why we invite them to join the information caravan and have an information desk during the festival,” Macapobre said. (Kier Edison C. Belleza)