Physically present during the launch were the local chief executives and LGU representatives from KALAHI CIDSS covered municipalities in Albay and Sorsogon. The launch was simultaneously held virtually with DSWD and LGU representatives from Regions 1, 2, 3, 4A, 4B, and V, as well as representatives from the World Bank, DILG, OCD, AFP, and PNP.
Hosted by the DSWD Field Office 5, the Luzon cluster launch of the KALAHI CIDSS NCDDP AF kickstarts the Community-Driven Development process for a total of 200 Luzon municipalities, 46 of which will be covered by the program for the first time.
DSWD Secretary Rolando Joselito D. Bautista, who also serves as the National Program Director for KALAHI CIDSS NCDDP, delivered the launching’s keynote message. He emphasized the role of the community and its community members in attaining and sustaining inclusive development. He noted the importance of collective community action in identifying problems and proposing community-based and implemented solutions which directly addresses these problems and challenges. Further, Sec. Bautista also highlighted the importance of KALAHI CIDSS NCDDP in responding to the social and public health effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
KALAHI CIDSS National Program Manager Director Janet P. Armas presented the additional financing’s coverage and the roles that the DSWD, LGUs, and the program’s community volunteers will play in the implementation and inevitable success of KALAHI CIDSS - NCDDP AF. She especially highlighted the importance of each sector as we build a more inclusive and sustainable country.
Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei B. Nograles, DILG Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs Martin B. Diño, and DILG Undersecretary Marlo L. Iringan, also delivered their respective messages of support for KALAHI CIDSS - NCDDP AF.
The additional financing for KALAHI CIDSS - NCDDP is made possible through the loan agreement granted by the World Bank. It will cover 676 municipalities in 62 provinces across 16 regions. The KALAHI CIDSS - NCDDP AF will run from 2021 until December 2023.
