Vice President Sara Duterte said political attacks against the Office of the Vice President (OVP) did not prevent the agency from delivering services to Filipinos as it launched the 2026 PASIDUNGOG recognition program on Monday, June 22.

The week-long virtual event honors individuals, organizations, local government units, private institutions, and community stakeholders that have partnered with the OVP in implementing programs and initiatives across the country.

In her message for “Pasidungog sa Kabag-uhan,” Duterte expressed gratitude to government agencies, private sector partners, civil society groups, local governments, and volunteers who helped the OVP carry out its programs from 2022 to 2025.

“Every life we uplift is the fruit of your unwavering belief in the OVP's core mission,” Duterte said. “With every helping hand we extend, we bring comfort to families, revitalize communities, nurture dreams, and build a stronger Philippines,” she added.

Despite the challenges and difficulties, Duterte stressed that the OVP remained steadfast in its commitment to bringing government services closer to the people.

“This year's Pasidungog fuels a much stronger resolve and an even greater determination to continue our legacy of service—one that speaks through action and stands firm above the noise of politics,” Duterte said. “Every milestone we reached became possible due to the steadfast dedication of our partners and stakeholders,” she added.

Duterte also noted that the agency continued its work despite what she described as “unfounded criticisms” and “systematic attacks,” stressing that these challenges never weakened its commitment to public service.

“Sa kabila ng mga hamon, ng walang-humpay na pamumulitika, at ng mga paninira, nanatili tayong matapang at tapat sa ating misyon na ilapit ang serbisyo ng gobyerno sa bawat Pilipino, lalo na sa mga higit na nangangailangan (Despite the challenges, the relentless politicking, and the smear campaigns, we remained brave and faithful to our mission to bring government service closer to every Filipino, especially to those who are most in need),” Duterte said.

As part of the opening of PASIDUNGOG 2026, the OVP released an accomplishment report highlighting the impact of its programs nationwide.

According to the OVP, around 271,631 individuals received assistance through its initiatives, while 64,234 bereaved families received support for funeral-related needs.

“Every year, the Office of the Vice President expands its reach, providing hope and relieving families of crippling debt due to harrowing medical and funeral expenses,” Duterte said. “Every year, we continue to walk alongside families, providing the support they need to honor their loved ones and find peace in their final farewell,” she added.

The OVP also reported that its Disaster Operations Center, together with partner organizations, extended relief assistance to more than 535,000 families affected by disasters and emergencies across the country.

“The OVP Disaster Operations Center continues to provide swift and immediate relief to affected communities,” Duterte said. “Together with our partners, we have already extended critical relief to over 535,000 families across the nation,” she added.

Through the RIICE Program and Kalusugan Food Trucks, the OVP said it reached an additional 231,604 beneficiaries.

The OVP also cited gains in livelihood, transportation, and education initiatives.

Under the Mag Negosyo Ta ’Day Program, the agency said it assisted 39 groups and more than 4,400 entrepreneurs by providing capital and livelihood support.

“By providing capital and strengthening grassroots economies, we have already empowered 39 groups and more than 4,400 entrepreneurs through our Mag Negosyo Ta 'Day Program,” Duterte said.

Meanwhile, its Libreng Sakay buses served about 2.9 million commuters nationwide, helping ease transportation challenges for workers and students.

“Our Libreng Sakay Buses also continue as a symbol of reliability, easing public transport for a total of 2.9 million commuters across the country,” Duterte said.

For education, the OVP reported that 603,751 students received school and dental kits under the PagbaBAGo campaign.

“The OVP's most enduring legacy is the one we secure for the youth,” Duterte said. “Through the PagbaBAGo Campaign, we invest directly in the future of the next generation,” she added.

The OVP also highlighted its environmental efforts, noting that it exceeded its target of planting one million trees, with a total of 1,089,750 trees planted over three years.

The 2026 PASIDUNGOG will run from June 22 to 26 and will be conducted entirely online.

“I express my heartfelt gratitude to all the partners, supporters, and stakeholders of the Office of the Vice President,” Duterte said.

The OVP said the virtual format was adopted in response to the ongoing global energy crisis and to promote prudent use of resources while allowing broader participation from stakeholders nationwide.

Throughout the week, the agency will release audiovisual presentations featuring accomplishments, partner success stories, and recognition materials for awardees from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The celebration will conclude on June 26 with a special “Thank You, Partners” presentation honoring institutions and individuals that have contributed to the success of OVP programs through the years.

“We may come from different sectors and walks of life, but we stand united today by a shared vision—to leave behind a legacy of genuine service in action for the future of our country and for the welfare of our fellow Filipinos,” Duterte said.

Duterte said this year’s theme, “Pasidungog sa Kabag-uhan,” highlights the transformative impact of collaboration among government agencies, local governments, private organizations, and community partners in improving the lives of Filipinos.

“Pasidungog sa Kabag-uhan,” Duterte said, is a “recognition of the new realities we have helped build together.”

“Kabag-uhan is not just newness. It is transformation made visible. It is the success story of a community that once struggled, now standing stronger,” Duterte said.

“It is every partnership that has deepened, every door that has opened, and every Filipino whose life looks different today because we chose to show up,” she said. “Today, we celebrate that Kabag-uhan—together,” she ended.