Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian underscored the main goal of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), which is to improve the quality of life for all Filipinos, especially those who are poor and marginalized.

During the NAPC's First Quarter Basic Sectoral Council Meeting on March 18, DSWD Assistant Secretary for International Affairs, and Attached and Supervised Agencies (ASAs) Elaine Fallarcuna delivered Gatchalian’s message to the NAPC.

“We gather here today with a sense of duty and commitment to supporting the most vulnerable members of our society. Our mission to uplift the lives of every Filipino, especially those in the marginalized sector, is not just a mandate but a moral imperative that drives us forward every day,” Gatchalian said in his message during the sectoral anti-poverty discussion.

The NAPC-led meeting aimed to foster dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders on the government's social welfare and development programs and to inspire the newly elected members of the basic sector council.

“As we engage in the discussions ahead, let us not lose sight of the human face of poverty. Our work is not merely about statistics or figures on a spreadsheet. It is about touching the lives of real people, families struggling to make ends meet, children yearning for a brighter future, and elders seeking dignity and respect in their twilight years,” Gatchalian said.

The DSWD urged the participants, especially the newly elected council members, to embrace their roles with passion and dedication as their voices represent the hopes and aspirations of millions of Filipinos who rely on government support and empowerment.

“Together, we have the power to effect meaningful change, to break the cycle of poverty, and to build a nation where no one is left behind. Let us harness the spirit of unity and cooperation as we work toward a future where every Filipino can live with dignity, opportunity, and hope,” he said.

Gatchalian also emphasized the important role of the NAPC as one of the supervised agencies of the DSWD in coordinating initiatives that tackle the root causes of poverty.

“In our pursuit of social justice and inclusive growth, the National Anti-Poverty Commission plays a crucial role in coordinating and implementing programs that address the root causes of poverty,” he said.

The council meeting, which was convened by NAPC Lead Convenor Secretary Lope Santos III and NAPC Vice-Chairperson for Basic Sectors Ruperto Aleroza, was attended by other commission representatives and partner-stakeholders from various sectors.