Outreach program for “Agta” community held

By Marlon A. Loterte

LEGAZPI CITY, July 6 (PIA) -- In strengthening its efforts to provide adequate information on access to the basic services of the government, the Regional Social Welfare and Development Learning Network (SWD-L Net ) in Bicol conducted last week an outreach program in Barangay Ramon, Buhi, Camarines Sur, for the Agta, also known as the Aeta, community.

A hundred members of the tribe, mostly women and children, were oriented on the government’s programs and services for women and children like PhilHealth membership, health, and medical benefits; DepEd Alternative Learning System; PNP peace, security, and anti-crime initiatives; responsible parenthood focusing on women and children’s rights and welfare, among others.

The network also prepared games for children and adults as well as spearheaded gift giving, including school supplies for school children.

The Department of Agriculture distributed seedlings to the families.

SWD-L Net is composed of national agencies, schools, organizations, and individuals providing capacity building programs on social welfare and development with the Department of Social Welfare and Development DSWD) acting as Secretariat.

Letty de la Cruz, a member of the tribe, gladly expressed her gratitude in behalf of the women members of the community for giving them the opportunity to meet government representatives where they could raise their concerns relative to their welfare.

”Marami po kaming natutunan sa mga ibinahagi sa amin ng mga bisita,” Letty added .

Members of the team were DSWD 5 officer in charge of the office of assistant regional director Felix Armena and representatives from Bicol University Tabaco Campus, Department of Agriculture, Department of Health , Department of Education, Philippine National Police, and the National Commission for Indigenous People (NCIP). MAL/EEJ-DSWD 5/PIA)