05/06/2026
Pag-Abot Program Strengthens Path to Self-Reliance for Rescued Families in Mabalacat ๐
MABALACAT CITY โ Eight ( 8 ) beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Pag-Abot Program formally received livelihood assistance amounting to Php 350,000 during the awarding and signing of agreement under the Comprehensive Package of Social Protection Services held on June 5, 2026, at Jade Hall, Lot Only, Xevera, Brgy. Tabun.
The beneficiaries, who were previously identified and assisted through the Pag-Abot Programโs reach-out operations for Families in Street Situation (FISS) conducted on May 13-14, 2026, were provided with livelihood support tailored to their capacities and proposed income-generating activities. Assistance included food carts, balut carts, and capital funds for vegetable vending businesses aimed at creating sustainable sources of income for their families.
The successful implementation of the program reflects the strong collaboration between the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office III and the City Government of Mabalacat under the leadership of City Mayor Gerald Guttrie Aquino, with the full support of Vice Mayor Jun Castro and the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod. Their continued commitment to social welfare programs has significantly contributed to providing opportunities for vulnerable individuals and families to improve their quality of life and achieve self-sufficiency.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of Mabalacat City, headed by Ms. Josephine B. Tanglao, RSW, MMPM, played a vital role in the implementation of the program through social preparation activities, beneficiary orientation, rescue operations conducted jointly with DSWD, comprehensive assessment, and continuous monitoring of beneficiaries to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the assistance provided.
The activity was further strengthened through the support and leadership of DSWD Field Office III Regional Director Venus F. Rebuldela, whose dedication continues to advance social protection programs that uplift disadvantaged individuals and families across Central Luzon.
As part of the program implementation, beneficiaries formally entered into an agreement signifying their commitment to actively participate in the interventions and livelihood initiatives provided under the Pag-Abot Program. The agreement ensures that the assistance granted by the DSWD will be utilized responsibly and effectively to improve their socio-economic condition.
The signing of the agreement highlights the shared commitment of the DSWD, the City Government of Mabalacat, and the beneficiaries toward achieving the goals of poverty reduction, social protection, and economic empowerment.
Under the agreement, beneficiaries commit to using the livelihood assistance solely for its intended purpose, remaining within their communities, refraining from returning to street-based activities such as begging, and submitting the necessary supporting documents, including receipts and proof of purchases, to demonstrate the proper utilization of the assistance received.
Also as stipulated in the agreement, beneficiaries are required to comply with specific program conditionalities designed to ensure the effective and sustainable use of the assistance provided. These include utilizing the livelihood assistance solely for its intended purpose, refraining from returning to street-based activities such as begging and mendicancy, remaining within their respective communities, and actively engaging in livelihood development activities. Beneficiaries are also required to submit receipts and other supporting documents as proof of proper utilization of the assistance, participate in regular monitoring and follow-up activities conducted by DSWD and the local government unit, and cooperate with case management interventions aimed at improving their overall well-being and socio-economic condition.
Furthermore, compliance with these conditionalities is essential in promoting accountability, ensuring the sustainability of the assistance, and helping beneficiaries achieve long-term self-reliance and economic stability.The beneficiaries are likewise encouraged to promote financial inclusion through opening bank accounts and practicing regular savings. They are also expected to actively participate in monitoring activities, follow-up visits, and meetings conducted by DSWD personnel and local government partners to assess the progress and sustainability of their livelihood projects.
Through collaborative efforts and sustained support, the Pag-Abot Program continues to provide vulnerable individuals and families with opportunities to rebuild their lives, strengthen their capacities, and become productive and self-reliant members of society.
