ILOILO – Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Wednesday placed the spotlight on grassroots empowerment as he met with women artisans in Santa Barbara, Iloilo, and spearheaded the launch of “Community-Driven Development (CDD) Day” at the provincial capitol.
Gatchalian personally visited the Women United through Handcrafted Lace and Embroideries (WUTHLE) Livelihood Association in Barangay Inangayan, where members showcased their intricate bobbin lace-making skills.
The group, composed of 22 members — including persons with disabilities, 4Ps beneficiaries, and senior citizens — has turned traditional craft into a steady source of livelihood.
“These encounters matter. We want programs that truly respond to the realities on the ground,” Gatchalian said, stressing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for agencies to directly engage communities and address their pressing needs.
WUTHLE earlier received a ₱555,000 grant under the Sustainable Livelihood Program in 2019, which enabled them to purchase materials and boost production. For members, the assistance was instrumental in transforming their craft into a viable enterprise.
Gatchalian, joined by Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 6 director Joselito Estember, OIC-assistant regional director for operations Katherine Joy Lamprea, and Santa Barbara mayor Dennis Superficial, underscored the value of collaboration between the national government and LGUs in sustaining such initiatives.
WUTHLE members, in turn, expressed gratitude for the visit, calling it both an inspiration and assurance that their voices are heard.
“This engagement motivates us to keep moving forward,” a representative said.
Later in the day, Gatchalian led the first celebration of CDD Day at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, which will now be observed every third Wednesday of September. The occasion highlights the government’s thrust to strengthen communities through participatory governance and inclusive development./PN
