The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office Caraga through the Regional Social Pension Unit (RSPU) of Protective Services conducted a Consultation Dialogue along with the key participants on January 30, 2025 at VCDU Hotel, Imadejas, Butuan City. 

The dialogue sought to engage key local officials; Chief Executives, Accountants, Treasurers, and C/MSWDO, to ensure effective program execution. The dialogue served as a critical platform for information exchange, capacity building, and enhancing local governance in the program’s implementation.

The discussion focused on addressing challenges, aligning strategies, and fostering collaboration to improve social pension delivery, ensuring the targeted beneficiaries receive timely and adequate support. The dialogue underscored the necessity of addressing logistical challenges, improving communication, and implementing safeguards to ensure timely and accurate payouts. 

In her opening remarks, Ms. Jessie Catherine B. Aranas, the PSD Chief, expressed her encouragement to the participants on the transition process. “As this transition marks a new chapter in our shared commitment to serving our senior citizens, I urge you to embrace this opportunity to strengthen our partnership and improve the lives of our senior citizens. Let us work together to make this transition a resounding success, ensuring that our senior citizens receive the support they deserve with dignity and respect “, Ms. Aranas stated. 

The participants, who are key partners in the implementation of the program, shared their perspectives regarding the transition to a new mode of payment for the social pension stipend for senior citizens. They voiced concerns and provided constructive suggestions aimed at streamlining the process and accelerating the disbursement of payments. The insights will be considered to optimize the program’s rollout and enhance its impact on beneficiaries.