Brain Trust Inc. (BTI), commissioned by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), conducted an assessment of DSWD Field Office Caraga’s key social protection programs on July 3–4, 2025, as part of a nationwide evaluation study on poverty alleviation initiatives.

The activity, led by BTI Chairperson Cielito Habito, is part of the ongoing study titled “Assessment of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Other Existing Social Protection Programs in the Philippines and their Contribution to Poverty Alleviation.”

Programs evaluated included 4Ps, Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens, Supplementary and School-Based Feeding Programs, Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), and the Disaster Response and Rehabilitation Program (DRRP).

The two-day assessment began with a courtesy visit to DSWD Caraga Assistant Regional Director for Operations Jean Paul Parajes, followed by focus group discussions (FGDs) with program focal persons and management officers. Multi-sectoral consultations were also held with partner national agencies such as DOH, TESDA, DTI, DepEd, PhilHealth, OWWA, and DEPDev.

Civil Society Organizations and business sector groups also participated in FGDs, including Loving Presence Foundation Inc., and various SLP Associations.

On the second day, the team conducted dialogues with the Butuan City LGU, including representatives from the Mayor’s Office, CSWDO, and CPDO, followed by a community visit and FGD with program beneficiaries in Barangay Libertad.

The assessment concluded with a stakeholder discussion in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte with the LGU’s MSWDO, MPDO, and Municipal Mayor’s Office.

The initiative underscores DSWD Caraga’s continuing commitment to evidence-based program improvements and responsive delivery of social protection services.