The Department of Social Welfare and Development – National Capital Region (DSWD – NCR participated in the celebration of the International Family day on May 15 by sending 50 Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries from Quezon City who are also under the Sustainable Livelihood Program to a forum conducted by DSWD – Central Office, which was participated by policy makers and family advocates from partner national government agencies, such as the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Health (DOH) and National Youth Commission (NYC). This year, it carries the theme, “Men in charge? Gender equality and children’s rights in contemporary families.”

According to DSWD – NCR Regional Director Ma. Alicia S. Bonoan, this year’s celebration “aims to promote gender equality and rights of children within families.” Moreover, “it will also highlight prevention of family violence through fair family law frameworks and a variety of program interventions.” Bonoan said.

The International Day of Families is celebrated yearly in accordance with the Proclamation by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, highlighting the importance of the family in the community. It also promotes awareness and has stirred social consciousness amongst nations on issues revolving around family relations.