Legazpi City: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 5 in Bicol has joined forces with state universities, a government agency, and private organizations to implement its main capacity-building program designed to aid the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized groups.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD-5 Director Norman Laurio highlighted that the collaboration is aimed at fostering a broader and more meaningful partnership for projects under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). Laurio emphasized the role of academic institutions in providing technical education, capacity building, skills training, and other essential technical assistance for livelihood interventions aimed at SLP participants.

As part of the initiative, state universities will engage faculty extension workers to share their expertise and serve as resource speakers during training sessions. The support network comprises Central Bicol State University, Partido State University, Bicol State College of Applied Science and Technology, Sorsogon State University, Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. 5, Family Planning Organization of the Philippines – Masbate, Young Men’s Christian Association of Albay, Cebuana Lhuillier, Agribusiness Rural Bank, and Bikolanas Agriculture Cooperative.

Laurio noted that DSWD-5 has already developed a regional partner network providing various forms of assistance, including financial services, capacity building, employment or market linkages, and advocacy. He expressed gratitude to the partners for their commitment to empowering Bicolanos, underscoring the positive impact of public-private sector collaborations on local communities.

Currently, the DSWD-5 has established partnerships with 51 non-government stakeholders and more than 136 government offices.