Mayor Gordon and CSWD will join Prestigious Annual Search

Gene Eclarino, head of City Social Welfare and Development Office of Olongapo City (CSWDO) has set his sights on the “Gawad Parangal for Outstanding Local Chief Executives & Local Social Welfare & Development Officers, LSWDO Retirees and Chapter” on the 14th National Social Welfare & Development Forum to be held at Cagayan de Oro City on September 28 to October 1, 2010.

“Very supportive si Mayor sa aming department. He constructed the center for youth, center for women at iba pang concerns sa social protection” said Eclarino.

The said award is an annual search of the Association of Local Social Welfare and Development Officers of the Philippines Inc., (ALSWDOPI) to give recognition to individuals who made a difference in the delivery of social services.

This is the first time that Olongapo City will join the said annual search. However, Gene Eclarino felt that Olongapo City is now ready. She is confident that Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. is very effective and efficient in its social welfare programs. It is very evident in his program thrust – H.E.L.P.S. which focuses on Health, Education, Livelihood, Peace and Order, Social Welfare and Sports. With this, the Mayor has accomplished a lot in the city. That is why Olongapo City has already received many awards from different award-giving bodies. Eclarino pointed out that Olongapo City has been awarded as a “Most Child Friendly City” in the country from 2001 to 2003; “Most Child Friendly City” Regional Awardee from 2001 to 2009; and Outstanding VAW Responsive LGU in 2009.

In terms of qualification set by the ALSWDOPI, Mayor Gordon will surely qualify. He already had the following social welfare officer in a permanent status: one City Social Welfare Officer; four Social Welfare Officer 3; and two Social Welfare Officer 1. In addition, the city had already 55 Day Care Center spread across 17 barangays.

Gene Eclarino also acknowledged the financial assistance provided by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the continuing support of City Health Officer Arnildo Tamayo.

Pao/Christopher