Incoming Social Welfare and Development Secretary Erwin Tulfo (PNA file photo)
MANILA – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under the incoming administration of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. will hasten the distribution of ayuda (assistance) via digital means as well as prioritize the welfare of children, especially those who are in conflict with the law.
Incoming DSWD Secretary Erwin Tulfo acknowledged the accomplishments of his predecessor, Secretary Rolando Bautista, but said he wants to achieve more.
"Kailangan pong dagdagan. Isa na po riyan iyong pagbibigay ng ayuda na mas mabilis na makarating sa mga tao (We aim to add on these accomplishments beginning with expediting the distribution of aid)," Tulfo said at the “Laging Handa” press briefer on Tuesday.
Tulfo plans to continue the online platform of distributing cash aid to DSWD beneficiaries which Bautista has started and implemented in the distribution of social amelioration aid for the vulnerable families hit by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The agency will also continue collaboration with Malasakit Centers in hospitals to provide immediate help.
Marcos likewise instructed Tulfo to establish a recovery program for those who lost their sources of livelihood due to the pandemic and nurture children through more welfare programs aimed at shaping their potentials and other assets
"Marami ho kasing problema, pati iyong mga (There are a lot of problems, even) juvenile justice," he said.
Additionally, the DSWD wants to help solve rising teenage pregnancies.
Tulfo said he will continue being a broadcaster and plans on requesting for a slot in regular press briefers of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) to have an avenue to inform the public on DSWD developments.
Incoming PCOO chief, lawyer Trixie Cruz-Angeles, announced Tulfo's appointment on Monday.
He is the brother of Senator-elect Raffy Tulfo, who rose to fame via his public service program. (PNA)
