Legarda: 2018 Budget Funds Improvement of DSWD Centers for Underprivileged Filipinos

Senator Loren Legarda today said that the 2018 national budget takes care of the needs of underprivileged Filipinos who need refuge through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) centers and institutions.

Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, said that under the 2018 General Appropriations Act (GAA), additional Php2.080 Billion was allocated under the DSWD budget for the repair, reconstruction or construction of its facilities such as activity centers for street children, residential facilities for the elderly, centers for children in conflict with the law, and temporary shelter for the abused, vagrants, mendicants, and physically, socially and mentally disabled persons.

The Senator explained that despite having limited capacity, it has been the policy of DSWD not to refuse anyone from entering their centers, which results in congested buildings and dilapidated facilities and amenities.

“Our social welfare and activity centers serve as temporary homes for underprivileged men, women, children, and elderly to support them until such time that they could get back on their feet. By rehabilitating existing facilities and establishing new centers, we reinforce the DSWD’s capability to accommodate and serve more families,” she said.

“Our government should be investing in a country where everyone, including the poor, is treated with dignity and respect, our elderly are able to retire comfortably, and our delinquent youth be able to reform properly. Through this additional funding for social services, we signify our commitment to providing for what is right and just for every Filipino,” Legarda concluded.