Under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr., Angeles City has been awarded the Panata Ko Sa Bayan: Gawad Serbisyong Matapat by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). This recognition, presented on December 6, 2024, at the Subic Bay Travelers Hotel and Event Center in Zambales, celebrates Local Government Units (LGUs) that demonstrate excellence in social service and protection programs. For Angeles City, this award highlights its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of its residents.
Mayor Lazatin shared his gratitude for the honor, emphasizing that the award reflects the city’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of all Angeleños. “We promise to ensure that no one is left behind,” the mayor stated, expressing thanks to the DSWD and retired City Social Welfare and Development Officer Edna Duaso for their significant contributions to the city’s progress.
The Lazatin administration’s innovative and impactful programs have played a crucial role in transforming the city’s social landscape. One notable initiative is the Plastic-to-Rice Program, led by Chief Adviser IC Calaguas and Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, which addresses both hunger and environmental challenges. Over 4 million kilograms of plastic have already been exchanged for rice, benefiting countless families.
Another key achievement is the Zero Malnutrition Campaign, which has significantly reduced malnutrition rates from 1,500 families in 2021 to just 563 in 2023. This effort includes house-to-house nutritional programs and the introduction of “pusong mamon” malunggay buns, which provide essential nutrients to children and families in need.
Mayor Lazatin’s administration has also focused on inclusive social support programs, ensuring that senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and transport groups receive regular assistance, including vitamins and financial aid. Further, compassionate programs have been launched for the rescue and rehabilitation of street children and mentally challenged individuals, as well as facility upgrades and better support for 70 day-care centers. These improvements include increased honoraria for teachers and school supplies for students.
Livelihood support and environmental programs have benefited the Aeta community in Barangay Sapangbato, empowering them as stewards of the Angeles City Watershed. Additionally, free casket and burial assistance programs have been introduced to lessen the financial burden on indigent families during difficult times.
Angeles City’s achievements have garnered numerous accolades, including the Walang Gutom Award for the Walang Plastikan program in 2024, the Gawad Makabata Award in 2022 and 2023, and the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance in 2022. Mayor Lazatin himself has received personal honors, such as the Gawad Parangal Award (2024) as the Most Outstanding Local Chief Executive in the Highly-Urbanized City Category. These recognitions highlight the city’s commitment to innovative, inclusive, and transformative governance, setting a benchmark in social service excellence.
Source: The VoiceNewsweekly
