MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared October 30 of every year as the “National Day of Charity” to promote and uplift the lives of Filipinos, aligning with his administration’s commitment to a “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines), the Palace announced on Saturday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative is part of the administration’s overarching theme of governance, which calls for deep and fundamental transformations in all sectors of society and government, emphasizing compassion, solidarity, and social responsibility among Filipinos. “Bagong Pilipinas calls for deep and fundamental transformations in all sectors of society and government, and visions to emphasize compassion, solidarity, and social responsibility among Filipinos,” Marcos stated in Proclamation 598.
Under the two-page proclamation, the President has tasked the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) with leading the planning, coordination, and supervision of the annual observance of the National Day of Charity. The PCSO is also responsible for identifying the programs, activities, and projects to be included in the celebration.
The proclamation highlighted the PCSO’s dedication to fulfilling its mandate through the provision of medical services, conducting free medical and dental services, establishing outpatient clinics, and partnering with qualified government and non-government welfare institutions and agencies that promote the well-being of marginalized sectors of society.
All government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, financial institutions, and state universities and colleges, are directed and encouraged to participate in the observance of the National Day of Charity. Additionally, local government units, non-government organizations, and the private sector are also directed to participate.
Marcos cited Section 9, Article II of the Constitution, which mandates the promotion of a just and dynamic social order to ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and to free the people from poverty through policies that provide social services, promote full employment, and improve the standard of living and quality of life for all.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed Proclamation 598 on June 13.