MANILA – The Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) has expressed confidence that it is treading the right path to provide better services to indigent Filipinos.
This, as PCUP chairperson Undersecretary Elpidio Jordan Jr. earned praises from his constituents, including the Commission division heads nationwide, as he marked his first 100 days in office.
Jordan was credited for his several initiatives, including the preparations for the Urban Poor Solidarity Week (UPSW) in December 2022 and the planned implementation of the PCUP's four banner pro-poor programs in 2023.
"Just 100 days since he took office as chairperson of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor, Undersecretary Elpidio Jordan Jr. has certainly galvanized the agency into action," the Commission said in a statement on Tuesday.
"Usec. Jordan was lauded by the Commission’s officials and the rank and file as well, for bringing back the agency on its track towards the fulfillment of its mandate of serving the country’s marginalized and underprivileged sectors, particularly the urban poor communities and informal settler families (ISFs) in different areas across the archipelago," it added.
The PCUP said division heads, including field operations division chiefs, are also grateful to Jordan for carrying out measures that are in line with the national government’s poverty alleviation program.
Based on the testimonies from the PCUP personnel, Jordan was seen as a "humble" leader who is "encouraging everyone to do their best, never being in command but rather being united with [them] in performing [their] duties as genuine public servants."
Jordan, on the other hand, attributed to his constituents the success of the implementation of PCUP's anti-poverty policies and programs.
“I will not be able to succeed if it were not for the loyalty and dedication I have seen from our employees who have tirelessly given their best for the welfare of our less fortunate countrymen,” he said.
He also pledged to continue undertaking measures that will benefit not only the poor but also the PCUP personnel seeking a better life and secure future.
“We are a family and we will not forget to prioritize our own well-being because in a way, when we are able to promote each other’s welfare. We have already contributed to the efforts for nation-building," Jordan said.
Created in 1986, The PCUP operates under the Office of the President to promote and protect the rights of the urban poor, including informal settler families.
The PCUP responds to issues on urban poverty such as demolitions, reclamation, and housing and provides assistance to the poor.
In October, the PCUP unveiled its four banner poverty reduction programs, which include housing initiative "Piso Ko, Bahay Mo," resource mobilization "Lingkod Agapay Maralita," urban poor data generation, and collaboration and partnership program.
The PCUP is expected to conduct at least five pro-poor activities during the UPSW which will be held from Dec. 2 to 8.
In line with the observance of UPSW, the PCUP will ink a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Labor and Employment and local shipping firm Archipelago Philippine Ferries corporation to provide better services to urban poor groups.
The PCUP also renewed its cooperation with the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office to enhance pro-poor programs. (PNA)
