To strengthen its commitment to efficient program and service delivery, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office (FO) Caraga held its 2024 Program Implementation Review (PIR) for the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens Program (SocPen) on October 24-25 at VCDU Prince Hotel in Butuan City.

The PIR gathered Local Social Welfare and Development Office (LSWDO) representatives and LGU focal persons from across the Caraga Region. This gathering allowed stakeholders to share best practices, raise pressing issues, and identify opportunities to continue to enhance service delivery for senior citizens.

One focal point of discussion was the transfer of the Centenarian Program to the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) in 2025. Additionally, Regional Social Pension Unit (RSPU) Focal Person Rachel B. Bade outlined plans for the Transfer of Funds (TOF) to LGUs in 2025, aligning with directives from DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian. Protective Services Division (PSD) Chief Jessie Catherine Aranas was present to address specific queries, providing direct insights to partners.

A highlight of the PIR was the recognition of top-performing LGUs, honoring their dedicated contributions to the success of the SocPen program. The acknowledgment emphasized DSWD’s gratitude and respect for the commitment and diligence of these partners in implementing the program.

The PIR serves as a crucial venue for examining program processes, identifying gaps affecting performance, and clarifying roles and responsibilities among DSWD and its partners. Through such reviews, DSWD FO Caraga ensures that it remains aligned with national targets and achieves impactful results for senior citizens.