In a celebration of unity and community empowerment, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office MIMAROPA, through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), paid tribute to its outstanding partners during the Regional Bayani Ka! Awards held on Friday.
The awardees included the barangay local government unit of Comod-om in Alcantara, Romblon, recognized for their exceptional efforts in Disaster Risk Reduction Management and Environment Protection. Marlyn Sodoy and Rey Ecleo Soriano of Santa Fe, Romblon, were honored for their unwavering volunteerism. Hon. Sonny Vicente of Barangay Matutuna, San Andres, Romblon, received acclaim for his dedication to improved local governance.
This event shone a spotlight on the strategic practices, success stories, and collaborative endeavors of various stakeholders in the MIMAROPA region who have embraced the Community-Driven Development (CDD) process of KALAHI-CIDSS.
The theme of the Regional Bayani Ka! Awards 2023, “Unity in Community,” underscored the vital partnership between Local Government Units (LGUs) and engaged community members. It emphasized their collective role in addressing challenges and propelling growth through the CDD approach.
Other awardees included LGU Bongabong, acknowledged for its contributions to improved local governance; the Ilog Farmers and Irrigators Association of Rizal Palawan, lauded for their exceptional work for the Operations and Maintenance category; and Jacqueline Andres of Baco, Oriental Mindoro, and Hon. Perpetuo Alo of Bansud, Oriental Mindoro, recognized for their dedication to promoting Indigenous People's welfare.
In recognition of their remarkable contributions, all award recipients were presented with a plaque, a certificate of recognition, and development incentives. Groups received a grant of P10,000 each, while individuals were awarded P5,000.
Beyond the accolades and recognition, the Regional Bayani Ka! Awards 2023 resounded with a call for the institutionalization of Community-Driven Development (CDD) principles and practices. It serves as a compelling appeal for governments, both at the regional and national levels, to invest in and wholeheartedly support the replication of CDD programs throughout the nation.
