With the aim to display its partnership with the different stakeholders,the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office II conducted the second leg of the Provincial Convergence Caravan in Nueva Vizcaya on June 18, 2014 at Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU)- Bayombong Campus.

Around 500 participants composed of beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program from the fifteen municipalities and partners from the Local Government Units, National Government Agencies, Civil Society Organizations, Academe and Media in the province attended the event.

Selected Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries shared how the program helped in the improvement of their lives, especially on the health and education of their children.

In her message, DSWD Regional Director Remia T. Tapispisan said that the Caravan is one manifestation of Convergence among the different sectors that share a common goal of helping poor families to have an improved level of well-being. She also stressed that it is an opportunity for the voices of the beneficiaries to be heard and be an inspiration to others.

“Kayong mga benepisyaryo ng Pantawid and bida sa araw na ito. Isa itong pagkakataon upang inyong maibahagi ang mga pagbabagong naganap sa inyong buhay simula nang kayo ay napabilang sa programa, upang magbigay patunay na sa gitna ng kahirapan, kayang-kaya ng Pinoy tumawid tungo sa kaunlaran!”, said Director Tapispisan.

Partners from the different sectors also gave their messages about their support in the implementation DSWD’s programs, especially the Pantawid Pamilya.

There were also contests namely “Best in Banner” and “Best in Yells”. Furthermore, booths were also installed around the venue for the NGAs to promote their programs and services.

The Convergence Caravan is being conducted by DSWD annually to showcase its partnership with the different sectors for the better and more effective implementation of programs and services. ### By MARICEL B. ASEJO, Information Officer II- Pantawid Pamilya