Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rexlon “Rex” Gatchalian is calling for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of families and individuals living in street situations (FISS). Gatchalian has sought support from key government agencies to improve and unify the delivery of services through the deployment of social safety nets, as outlined in Executive Order (EO) 52.
EO 52, issued on January 18, formalizes and expands the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Oplan Pag-Abot by establishing an interagency committee to oversee outreach efforts. The committee, chaired by the DSWD secretary with the secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) serving as vice chairman, aims to provide a more coordinated and effective response to the needs of FISS.
Gatchalian emphasized the responsibility of the state to address the shortcomings that lead individuals to live on the streets. “They are in the streets because the state fails them. Now, it is time for us to make up for our shortcomings — we, the state — by providing them with the necessary social protection that they need, and we really need your help with it,” Gatchalian said.
The DSWD is particularly seeking assistance and support from member agencies in providing post-reach-out care services to the assisted clients who are exposed to hazards and abuses. Gatchalian expressed the intention to develop a comprehensive aftercare package, which may include opportunities for farming or starting a business, to ensure that individuals receive the necessary support to reintegrate into society successfully.
Under Oplan Pag-Abot, individuals who used to live in the streets are now receiving various interventions to address their needs. These interventions include medical help, food aid, transportation and relocation assistance, livelihood opportunities, transitory family support packages, and emergency financial and transitory shelter assistance. Importantly, the approach is based on the recognition of individuals’ rights and aims to convince them to accept assistance rather than forcing them into it.
To achieve the goals set forth in EO 52, the DSWD is collaborating with several key government agencies, including the Department of Education, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative Development Authority, and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. By working together, these agencies can pool their resources and expertise to provide a more comprehensive and holistic approach to addressing the needs of FISS.
It is crucial to recognize that the challenges faced by individuals in street situations are complex and multifaceted. Factors such as poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and social exclusion contribute to their vulnerability. By implementing a comprehensive package of services and interventions, the government aims to address these underlying issues and provide individuals with the necessary support to improve their lives.
In conclusion, Secretary Gatchalian’s call for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of individuals in street situations highlights the government’s commitment to providing social protection and support to the most vulnerable members of society. Through the collaboration of key government agencies, the aim is to create a unified and effective system that ensures individuals receive the necessary assistance to reintegrate into society successfully. By addressing the root causes of street situations and providing holistic support, the government aims to empower individuals and improve their overall well-being.
Source: The Manila Times
