Manila’s welfare initiatives recognized

The city of Manila under Mayor Honey Lacuna has received another accolade for its public service efforts during the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Social Technology Expo Awards Night.

Manila’s Department of Social Welfare (MDSW), headed by Ma. Asuncion “Re” Fugoso, was honored for its contributions to various social programs.

This year’s theme, “Empowerment Evolution: Unleashing Potential Through Innovation,” highlighted the crucial role played by stakeholders in the nationwide implementation of the DSWD’s programs.

These include initiatives such as the Tara! Basa Tutoring Program, Walang Gutom Program and Pag-Abot Program.

Mayor Lacuna expressed her gratitude to the DSWD for the recognition, stating that it reflects the city’s commitment to innovation and improving the lives of its citizens.

“Thank you to the DSWD, our director Re Fugoso, and the men and women behind the MDSW who have worked tirelessly to make this recognition possible. Together, we continue to inspire progress and empowerment for a brighter future for the City of Manila,” Lacuna said.

In response, Fugoso remarked that the recognition would serve as motivation for the MDSW to continue their best efforts in serving Manila’s residents.

She also commended Lacuna for her unwavering support and genuine concern for the people, ensuring that they receive the necessary assistance, especially during times of calamities.

Fugoso noted that Lacuna’s experience as a former head of the MDSW, combined with her medical background, enables her to respond effectively during emergencies such as fires and floods.

Meanwhile, members of the Manila Police District-PS 3 arrested a 44-year-old female “drug dealer” during a buy-bust operation early Saturday morning in front of the PNB Bank at the corner of Palanca Street and Quiapo, Manila.

The suspect, identified as Judith Flores Sta. Maria, alias “Jengjeng,” was apprehended at 3:10 a.m. and detained at the MPD-PS 3.

The operation was carried out by a team of police operatives, including P/Cpl. Rudvian Manlapas, P/Cpl. Anthony Bernal, P/Cpl. Jeffrey Castillo, P/SSg. Ramjay Belando, and P/Cpl. Ruzzel Manuel from the Station Drug Enforcement Unit of PS-3, who conducted the bust using a poseur buyer.

Authorities seized two plastic sachets containing 10 grams of shabu, valued at approximately P68,000.

Flores will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, at the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office.