The government has launched a convergence program which seeks to further improve the delivery of social amelioration services to the country’s poor, vulnerable and marginalized communities.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) together with other national government agencies launched the Aid and Humanitarian Operations Nationwide (AHON) Convergence Program in San Benito, Surigao del Norte (Siargao) on June 9.
“The AHON Program aims to institutionalize a platform for an enhanced and unified delivery of social amelioration services to poor and marginalized communities around the country,” the DSWD said in a statement.
The program’s implementation is provided under Executive Order No. 137, which was signed on May 24, 2021. The EO intends to accelerate and harmonize aid and humanitarian operations of the national government during disasters and emergencies.
“Among the services that can be availed from the program include basic services such as food and non-food relief items, livelihood assistance, educational assistance, burial assistance, transportation assistance, employment assistance, medical and health assistance, direct financial assistance, and infrastructure for preparedness and rehabilitation facilities,” the DSWD said.
Sitting as vice chair of the program, the DSWD is tasked to implement the provision of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation, Sustainable Livelihood Program, and the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services.
“DSWD pledges to work hand-in-hand with concerned agencies to ensure a well-coordinated provision of social welfare and development services to support the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable sectors of society.”
DSWD Assistant Secretary for Visayas Affairs Victor Neri, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, DSWD Field Office Caraga OIC Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen, and San Benito Municipal Mayor Maria Gina Menil attended the program launch.