The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Academy, in consortium with the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) conducts its Participatory Development Planning Process Training for Batch 2 participants on May 13-17, 2024, at the Almont Hotel Inland Resort, Butuan City.

The said activity, which is being hosted by DSWD Field Office Caraga, is being attended by representatives from various Local Government Units from different regions, who are implementing KALAHI-CIDSS.

The 5-day activity, which offers a Certificate Course on Facilitating Community-Driven Development Initiatives in LGUs: Reinforcing Participatory Approaches in Local Development Planning, will cover a variety of modules and workshops on topics such as participatory approaches and strategies for sustainable local development, as well as important concepts and techniques in local development planning.

DSWD Field Office Caraga OIC Assistant Regional Director for Operations Jean Paul Parajes, welcomed the participants during the opening program. During his message, ARDO Parajes highlighted the importance of the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach, and how it contributes to the government’s top mission of reducing poverty in communities–most especially in the far-flung areas.

“The essence of the community-driven development approach is rooted in empowerment and inclusivity; principles that align with our broader national agenda of fostering resilience and sustainable growth across our communities. This training program is a strategic effort to bridge gaps, enhance capacities, and most importantly, inspire action grounded in the collective wisdom and strength of the communities we serve,” Parajes said.

ARDO Parajes also emphasized LGUs’ vital role in driving development to empower communities and underscored the significance of this training. “This program is designed not just as a capacity-building exercise but as a catalyst for change, encouraging a shift towards more participatory, inclusive, and effective governance” he added.

The DSWD Academy, a pioneering project of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, serves as the agency’s professional learning institute that offers opportunities for the development of the competencies of its partner stakeholders needed in the delivery of social welfare as well as social protection programs and services.