Mary Scarlet T. Bulosan & Mariette T. Megabon

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Starting Point

Mary Scarlet T. Bulosan and Mariette T. Megabon are staff members of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in Cebu Province. This office plays a crucial role in promoting the welfare and well-being of residents, particularly those marginalised, vulnerable, or in need of assistance. It is responsible for the planning, implementing, and coordinating social welfare programmes and services across the province. It is dedicated to improving the lives of women in the community by providing essential services, promoting economic empowerment, ensuring legal protection, and advocating for their rights. Through its multifaceted programmes, it works to create a safer, more inclusive environment where women can thrive, live free from violence, and realise their full potential.

Peace Journey

The PSWDO of Cebu City is vital in the promotion of welfare and empowerment of women within the community, particularly those vulnerable or in challenging situations. It provides a wide array of social services to women in need, including financial assistance, food support, shelter, and other welfare services. These essential services ensure that women facing hardship or crises have access to the support they need to rebuild their lives and improve their well-being.

One of its core functions is to support women, particularly those affected by violence or exploitation. The office is instrumental in offering programmes for the prevention of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC), providing services such as counselling, legal assistance, and rehabilitation for women who are victims of domestic violence, trafficking, or abuse. It advocates for women's rights, ensuring that women have the necessary resources and support to seek justice and protection from harm.

In addition, it empowers women economically through livelihood programmes. These initiatives include skills training, micro-financing, and support for women who wish to start or expand their small businesses. These efforts enable women to achieve financial independence, build sustainable livelihoods, and contribute to the economic development of their communities.

The PSWDO is also dedicated to supporting women’s health and well-being. In addition to offering general welfare services, the office organises programmes such as health seminars and counselling services focused on women's health, mental wellness, and gender sensitivity. This ensures that women in the community can access the resources they need to thrive physically, emotionally, and socially.

Furthermore, it promotes gender equality and women’s social inclusion by addressing issues such as discrimination and poverty. Through community development and social advocacy programmes, the office raises awareness about women's rights and advocates for policies that promote gender equality. These programmes encourage women to actively participate in local governance, community decision-making, and the fight against social injustices that disproportionately affect women.

In times of crisis or natural disasters, the office ensures that women are prioritised in disaster response and relief efforts. It provides emergency aid, shelter, and medical support, with a particular focus on women's needs, including maternal and reproductive health services and protection from gender-based violence during disasters.

Ensuring that women have access to comprehensive services, it collaborates with other organisations and government agencies.. By partnering with local non-governmental organisations (NGOs), government agencies, and women's organisations, the office ensures women receive the support they need to overcome challenges and achieve empowerment.

Success Stories

The PSWDO has made significant strides in improving social welfare services for vulnerable populations, with a focus on women, children, and marginalised groups. One of the key milestones in its development has been the establishment of comprehensive social welfare services, which provide financial assistance, food, shelter, and medical aid to those in need. These services are especially crucial for women and children facing abuse, trafficking, or other forms of exploitation. It contributes significantly to the promotion of gender equality and the protection of women's rights by offering programmes that address Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC). These include legal assistance, counselling, and rehabilitation for victims of abuse, along with livelihood opportunities that empower women economically.

Additionally, it has enhanced its response to disasters, providing both immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation assistance to affected communities. Its disaster response efforts prioritise vulnerable groups such as women, children, and senior citizens, ensuring they receive the necessary support during crises. 

Another milestone has been the office’s implementation of livelihood programmes, particularly for women, which provide skills training and micro-financing, enabling them to improve their economic conditions. These programmes have helped women gain financial independence and stability, contributing to their social empowerment.

Moreover, the PSWDO has strengthened its collaboration with local government units (LGUs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and other agencies to improve service delivery and create a comprehensive support system for women and marginalised communities. Furthermore, the establishment of Barangay Gender and Development (GAD) focal points has been crucial in addressing gender-based violence at the grassroots level, ensuring that victims receive continuous support. As a result, it has been recognised for its excellence in social welfare services and innovative approach to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment.

Through its various programmes, it has furthered its focus on public education and awareness, advocating for women’s health, rights, and gender equality. Health programmes such as Cancer Awareness Seminars and reproductive health advocacy have significantly contributed to improving the well-being of women in Cebu. The PSWDO’s commitment to child and youth development has also been a significant milestone, featuring programmes that provide educational support and life skills training for young people, ensuring they are empowered to become active participants in their communities.