Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rolando Bautista said technology “greatly helped” bring families together despite the distance that separated them amid the ongoing global pandemic.
“Over the years, our country has been one with the global community in advancing the rights and welfare of the family,” Bautista said in a video message during an online forum in celebration of the International Day of Families on Monday, May 17.
In 1992, President Fidel V. Ramos issued Proclamation No. 60 declaring the last week of September each year as “Family Week,” a year before the United Nations has declared May 15 of every year as the “International Day of Families.”
“This shows how much we value the family sector as the smallest unit but the most formidable foundation of our society,” Bautista said.
“The future of every nation rest highly on empowered families, thus keeping the Filipino family empowered and well-protected our key responsibility as members of the National Committee on Filipino Family,” he added.
This year’s celebration carries the theme: “Pagpapatibay ng Pamilya sa Panahon ng Pandemya Gamit ang Makabagong Teknolohiya (Strengthening the Family in Times of Pandemic Using Modern Technology).”
Bautista said this year’s theme, underscored the “positive influence” of technology in keeping the bond of families, especially when used in a proper way.
“Indeed, technology has greatly help bridge communication among family members during this pandemic, connecting even to their loved ones abroad which is a sure way to reassure each other of their love and support despite the distance,” he said.
“We’ve also heard of stories about COVID-19 patients overcoming their loneliness in isolation as they reconnect with their loved ones through their mobile phones,” he added.
The online forum was organized by the DSWD and the NCFF, featuring experts and advocates who shared their insights on family matters.
In this challenging times, Bautista said that constant communication with family members, friends, and relatives “nurtures a sound mind and healthy body.”
“With all this challenges our families continue to face during times, we need to reinvigorate our programs and services to be responsive to their needs,” he said.
“By this, we continue to ensure that our families remain to be the safest haven against the spread of the coronavirus,” he added.