ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office IX successfully conducted the Rollout Training on Social Case Management for the Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa from March 24-27, 2025, at the DSWD Region IX Conference Hall. This initiative aimed to strengthen the capabilities of case managers in delivering effective social services, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
The training was spearheaded by Ms. Cledelou Zaragoza, Unit Head for Case Management, and brought together case managers from the Sulu, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi clusters. Additionally, representatives from the MNLF Transformation Program, CSAC/CIAC, and Victims of Terrorism initiatives participated, underscoring the event’s collaborative approach. The Peace and Development team from the DSWD Central Office also provided support, reinforcing inter-agency coordination in peacebuilding efforts.
Highlighting the significance of the event, DSWD Region IX Regional Director Riduan P. Hadjimuddin, CESO III, delivered an inspirational message, emphasizing the essential role of case managers in fostering peace and development. Meanwhile, Assistant Regional Director for Operations, Dir. Ma. Socorro S. Macaso, offered strategic insights into improving service delivery in vulnerable communities.
The training featured insights from subject matter experts, including Salvador V. Arcangel VIII, Social Healing Unit Head of NPMO, and Ali B. Namla, Social Healing Unit Head of RPMO XII. These distinguished speakers shared best practices in social case management, particularly in handling Former Members of Non-State Armed Groups (FMNSAGs).
Further enhancing the training, Filbert M. Tandog from ICTMS provided an overview of PROVA BPAU, a tool designed to improve case management efficiency. In addition, the Information Technology Officer of RPMO introduced the AppSheet application alongside Elena L. Aguilar from Monitoring and Evaluation. This digital innovation will streamline field operations for Region IX case managers.
The rollout training serves as a foundational learning experience, equipping social case managers with the necessary guidelines, tools, and strategies to manage diverse cases effectively. This initiative reinforces DSWD’s commitment to enhancing social protection programs and fostering sustainable peace and development in conflict-affected communities.
DSWD Field Office IX extends its heartfelt gratitude to all speakers, organizers, and participants for their unwavering dedication to social service excellence.