Philippines hosts ASEAN Social Work Day, focuses on disaster resilience

The Philippines will officially host the ASEAN Social Work Day 2025 on March 25th, highlighting the crucial role of social workers in disaster risk reduction and climate change resilience across Southeast Asia.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will lead the hybrid event, with participation from other ASEAN member states, development partners, and the UNICEF.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized that social workers' dedication to assisting vulnerable individuals during calamities often goes unacknowledged and needs to be integrated into disaster planning.

The celebration will officially launch the Regional Guidance, a framework designed to help policymakers incorporate social workers into disaster preparedness and response strategies, tailored to each country's unique needs.

This guidance aims to increase awareness of their essential role and advocate for greater institutional support, ensuring they are equipped to address the growing challenges posed by climate change.

The event underscores the Philippines' leadership in advancing social welfare and development within the ASEAN region.

Ultimately, the DSWD aims to champion the empowerment and recognition of social workers as vital pillars of community resilience.