Carrascal town celebrates Community Volunteers’ Day
CARRASCAL, Surigao del Sur (PIA) -- The municipality of Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, held its annual “Pahigayon” or the Community Volunteers’ Day on October 10, showcasing the essential role of local volunteers in advancing community development under the program on Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS).
This year’s theme, “Kalambuan Kab-uton, Pagka-boluntaryo Ipadayon” (Achieve Progress, Continue Volunteerism),” aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s commitment to empowering communities and promoting sustainable development.
Key attendees included Sangguniang Bayan Member Leovino Constantino, Association of Barangay Captains President Carmelita Correos, local officials, and representatives from the KALAHI-CIDSS program.
Carrascal’s Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Kresta Mae Pa-as highlighted the volunteers’ dedication to implementing impact sub-projects that directly benefit the communities.
“We are thrilled to honor your sacrifices and contributions to community progress,” Pa-as said.
She emphasized that the volunteers’ efforts have created a lasting legacy through projects like daycare centers, which support early childhood development.
Volunteers shared their heartfelt experiences, expressing gratitude for the program's positive impact. Lorna Almaza, chairperson of the Barangay Development Council in Brgy. Gamuton, remarked, “KALAHI-CIDSS has provided significant assistance to every barangay, fostering local empowerment.”
Esterlita Maturan, chairperson of Brgy. Bon-ot, added joyful sentiment, thanking the program for its transformative influence and encouraging fellow volunteers to ensure the sustainability of their projects for future generations.
The participants concluded the event as they sincerely sang the KALAHI-CIDSS hymn, “Kwentong Pagbabago,” symbolizing the collective commitment of community volunteers and government agencies to address local challenges.
The KALAHI-CIDSS program exemplifies the government's focus on community-driven development, empowering citizens to take an active role in shaping their futures. (NGPB, PIA-Surigao del Sur with a report from DSWD-13)