DSWD’s ‘Oplan Pag-Abot’ Benefits 973 Street Dwellers

MANILA: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reached a significant milestone with its ‘Oplan Pag-Abot’ initiative, benefiting a total of 973 homeless individuals living on the streets since its launch in June. Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs Irene Dumlao reported on Monday that the program has aided 425 family members and 528 unattached individuals as of Dec. 7.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DSWD’s Pag-Abot Team has been actively conducting operations to encourage families and individuals in street situations to seek assistance and services offered by the government. Of the total number of individuals helped, 189 received aid through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program. Additionally, 241 individuals returned to their provinces under the ‘Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-Asa Program’, which provides financial and livelihood assistance. Others have been referred to local government units (LGUs) for further interventions, while some are temporarily sheltered in DSWD-run centers and residential care facilities. The DSWD has also established a mega processing center in Quezon City to extend its reach, especially during the holiday season. Dumlao emphasized the importance of supporting families and individuals in street situations through proper platforms like the Oplan Pag-Abot processing centers, highlighting the organized and safer a
pproach to gift-giving. The initiative in Metro Manila is a collaborative effort involving the Commission on Human Rights, Philippine Statistics Authority, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and LGUs.