DSWD, PCOO, spearhead launch of AHON Convergence Program

Posted on June 15, 2021

Asec. Neri discusses to the participants of the AHON launch the background of the initiative and how it will benefit the people from the barangays who would need assistance from the government.

DSWD joins the launching of Aid and Humanitarian Operations Nationwide (AHON) Convergence Program in the municipality of San Benito, Surigao del Norte (Siargao) on June 9, 2021.

DSWD serves as the Vice-Chair of the AHON committee, together with the Office of the Special Assistant to the President (Chair), DTI, DOH, DA, DICT, DOLE, and PCOO. The initiative, implemented through Executive Order 137 (2021), aims to institutionalize a platform for an enhanced and unified delivery of social amelioration services to poor and marginalized communities.

Sec. Martin Andanar of PCOO explains how the convergence efforts of the different agencies work for the AHON Convergence Program.

Basic services such as food and non-food relief items, livelihood assistance, educational assistance, burial assistance, transportation assistance, employment assistance, medical and health assistance, direct financial assistance, and infrastructure for preparedness and rehabilitation facilities will now be brought closer to the people through the member-agencies.

DSWD is represented by Assistant Secretary for Special Concerns Asec. Victor Luis Neri, together with DSWD Field Office Caraga OIC Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen during the launching. Also present during the said launching is PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar, and San Benito Municipal Mayor Maria Gina Menil.

Asec. Neri, together with representatives from the other NGAs discuss to the LGU of Sta. Monica the background of the the AHON Convergence Program.

Three other municipalities in the island were visited by the team for the said launch, namely, Sta. Monica (June 10), Burgos, and General Luna (June 11).