The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD FO CAR) and the Tam-an Banaue Multipurpose Cooperative-Kalinga are joining forces to elevate social welfare services across the region through a formal partnership agreement. The Memorandum of Agreement was signed on 13 February 2025 by DSWD FO CAR Regional Director Maria A. Catbagan-Aplaten, and Tam-an Banaue Multipurpose Cooperative Chief Executive Officer Jose B. Tomas Jr., JD.
This partnership marks a significant step in DSWD FO CAR’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its programs by harnessing the power of volunteerism. Both parties are committed to improving the delivery of services for vulnerable and disadvantaged communities across the Cordillera region. At the heart of this partnership is a shared goal which is to create sustainable opportunities for community development, alleviate poverty, and empower marginalized sectors. DSWD FO CAR has long advocated for volunteer participation as a vital means of achieving these goals.
“This collaboration is built on trust, care, and shared responsibility,” said Regional Director Catbagan-Aplaten. “Through this partnership, we aim to foster a spirit of volunteerism that will encourage positive change and empower our communities.” she added.
The Tam-an Banaue Multipurpose Cooperative-Kalinga, known for its community-oriented programs and deep-rooted connection with local residents, brings a wealth of experience to the table. CEO Tomas emphasized the cooperative’s commitment to making a meaningful impact. “We are dedicated to using our resources, expertise, and local knowledge to support DSWD’s social protection initiatives. By working together, we can uplift lives and promote a sense of solidarity,” he shared.
Under the agreement, DSWD FO CAR will provide numerous opportunities for volunteers from the cooperative to contribute to various programs. These include:
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Training and Capacity Building: Volunteers will have access to workshops and seminars aimed at developing skills, expanding knowledge, and enhancing personal growth.
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Guidance and Support: This will provide orientation on departmental policies and ensure volunteers are equipped with the necessary tools and resources to perform their tasks effectively.
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Appreciation and Recognition: The cooperative’s efforts will be acknowledged through regular consultations and certificates of appreciation to celebrate volunteer contributions.
The Tam-an Banaue Multipurpose Cooperative, on the other hand, has committed to supporting the following initiatives:
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BANTAY (Anti-Corruption Efforts): Monitoring compliance with the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and assisting in validating beneficiary lists and other anti-poverty programs.
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KAAGAPAY (Anti-Poverty Projects): Providing livelihood and entrepreneurial training for Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) beneficiaries, adopting centers or institutions to support residents, and advocating for child protection.
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TULAY (Community Monitoring): Assisting with grievance redress systems, documenting community success stories, and supporting feedback mechanisms to improve program implementation.
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GABAY (Technical Assistance): Serving as resource persons and mentors for Family Development Sessions and improving training materials for various programs.
By combining the strengths of a government institution and a well-established cooperative, both parties aim to foster sustainable community growth. This partnership will not only provide much-needed support to individuals and families but also promote active participation from various sectors in building a more resilient society.
The agreement, which will be in effect from February 2025 to February 2026, has the potential to expand further based on mutual agreement. Both parties are optimistic about what lies ahead and are eager to see how their combined efforts will translate into real, tangible benefits for the communities they serve.
“Partnerships like these are critical in building trust and achieving meaningful outcomes for those we serve,” Director Catbagan-Aplaten concluded. “We invite more organizations to join us in this mission to promote social justice, inclusivity, and empowerment.”#DSWD-CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, Joanna Marie M. Caponpon-Apostol
