The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, together with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Surigao del Sur, has been recognized with the Best Partnership Award under the Natatanging Katuwang ng Programa category during the 2025 Gawad Sulong Awarding Ceremony tonight, September 19, 2025 at the Iloilo Grand Hotel.
Gawad Sulong is an annual recognition program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) that honors the outstanding achievements, dedication, and contributions of participants, personnel, and partners in the implementation of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP).
In full support, DSWD Field Office Caraga Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga, Assistant Regional Director for Operations Jean Paul Parajes, Policy and Plans Division Chief Elsa Jamora, SLP Regional Program Coordinator Reynard Roi Cabusao, and other SLP staff were present.
Tagbina Mayor Glaiza Jane Polizon-Lanete personally received the award and, in her acceptance message, highlighted the municipality’s commitment to sustaining livelihood initiatives.
“We are Tagbihanons who are proud of the fact that we are able to revolutionize a consumer store by strengthening it for 3 years and counting. Patunay ng isang TATAK SLP CHAMPION MUNICIPALITY na hindi basta-bastang natitinag ng hamon ng panahon. Hence, the perspective of “furtherance” that we have is a testament of our resilience that we can show to our municipality, to our region, and the whole nation. If we all have this mindset and eradicate the concept of greed and selfishness, we could come to the realization that the ultimate precept of the SLP program other than community involvement is legacy itself. Time and again, we have won, because we strived to be one and I also encourage you to do the same not just for the sake of winning titles, but for the sake of winning hearts.”
On behalf of TESDA Caraga, Provincial Director Romel Natad expressed gratitude and underscored their strong collaboration with DSWD Field Office Caraga.
“We are deeply honored to receive the Gawad Sulong Award. This recognition affirms our shared mission with DSWD through the Sustainable Livelihood Program-to empower families, build enterprises, and help communities stand on their own feet. At TESDA, we measure our worth by the satisfaction of the customers we serve. That is why, under the banner of TESDA Kayang Kaya, we remain your reliable partner in bringing skills and opportunities that truly change lives”.
Adding to the region’s victories, Ms. Priscilla Soliva won 2nd Place under the Best Micro-Enterprise Development Individual -Special Projects category, while Ms. Nancita Bagotsay secured 3rd Place in the Best Employment Facilitation category.
The recognition of LGU Tagbina, TESDA Surigao del Sur, and individual awardees highlights the continuing impact of the Sustainable Livelihood Program in building resilient communities and creating lasting opportunities for Caraganons.
SLP is a community-based program that helps poor and vulnerable families gain sustainable income through skills training, employment facilitation, and small business support.
