SAN AGUSTIN, SURIGAO DEL SUR- To ensure an environment of cooperation, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga through Listahanan Regional Field Coordinator Adelito Mendoza and Information Technology Officer Raffy Pocon, together with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) Joji Abarca, Department of Education (DepEd) Representative Johnson Cabuyoc, 4Ps Municipal Link Officer Jomer Corvera, and Barangay Gata Chairman Laudemer Saberon met with the religious leaders situated in Sitio Hamburger Hills, Barangay Gata, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur.

The primary objective of this dialogue is to create a platform of mutual understanding between the Department and the church leaders related to the on-going Listahanan Special Assessment, where the said Sitio has a total target of 53 4Ps households.

As a result of the discussion, the leaders allowed the Listahanan enumerators to interview its members inside the community. This collaborative effort underscores the government’s commitment to inclusivity despite the diversity of religious beliefs.

Prior to the dialogue, the team had a courtesy visit with San Augustin Mayor Nicolas Alameda, who fully supported the ongoing 2nd round Special Assessment in his municipality.

Based on the report, all target 4Ps households who are members of the said group voluntarily waived and/or declined to receive cash grants from the Department and any other government agencies due to their religious beliefs. In the previous 3rd round of household assessment in 2019, enumerators had difficulty penetrating the area since they won’t cooperate and give truthful information about their identity, household roster, and socio-economic information.