The Provincial Government of Cavite, through the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (OPSWDO), spearheaded a successful event titled “Cavite Convergence: A Pathway for a Better Tomorrow for Inclusive Services to All” on June 11, 2024, at Alfonso Town Plaza. The gathering brought together over 500 selected members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) from the municipalities of Alfonso, Magallanes, and Maragondon who took part in the wide range of essential services promoting the spirit of modern-day Bayanihan.
The program commenced with a warm welcome from Vice Mayor Madonna M. Pel, followed by insightful messages from key representatives. Ms. Nellibeth V. Mercado, Division Chief of the PPPPMO and representative of Dr. Barry R. Chua, Regional Director of DSWD IV-A, emphasized the importance of convergence and continuous cooperation among the participants. Ms. Beverly Alvaran, representative of BM Romel R. Enriquez, Chairperson of Social Services, Family, Women, Children, and Elderly, also shared her insights, along with Ms. Carolina Rivera, representative of Vice Governor Bryana Athena Tolentino, who highlighted the significance of the event in ensuring easy access to basic services for 4Ps members.
The event was a hub of vital services, primarily health-related, provided by the Office of the Provincial Health Officer. Attendees received medical check-ups, dental services, nutrition programs, maternal and child health services, family planning advice and supplies, TB programs, HIV screenings, skin consultations, and health promotion. Free vitamins and medicines were also distributed, courtesy of the Office of the Provincial Governor.
Beyond healthcare, participants enjoyed a range of other services. PhilHealth provided an orientation on Universal Health Care and Konsulta Benefits, while Landbank introduced the Perang Inimpok Saving Option (PISO). The Office of the Provincial Cooperatives and Development Officer offered economic opportunity mentoring, and the Office of the Provincial Public Employment Services Manager provided career guidance and employment coaching. Legal consultations were available through the Office of the Provincial Legal Officer, and the Department of Trade and Industry offered customer protection and consultation services.
Support also came from various members of the Provincial Advisory Council, including DILG, OPENRO, DOST, OPIO, Pearl of the Orient, Cavite State University, and DepEd, ensuring a comprehensive support network for all attendees.
In closing, Ms. Maria Aura D. Fuentes, Social Worker Officer III from OPSWDO, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and service providers for their active involvement and support, which made the event a resounding success. The convergence event marks a significant step towards ensuring that all 4Ps members in Cavite have access to essential services and opportunities, reinforcing the Provincial Government of Cavite’s commitment to fostering a better tomorrow for all its residents.