By Perfecto T. Raymundo, Jr.
MANDALUYONG CITY — The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) is poised for a successful celebration of the National Day of Charity on Oct. 30, thanks to strong backing from various government agencies, and the private sector.
In an interview, PCSO General Manager Mel Robles has expressed optimism on the successful holding of the event, even as he highlighted the collaborative spirit that surrounds the activity.
This, as the Supreme Court (SC), through the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA), has mandated all first and second level courts nationwide to actively participate in this initiative.
In OCA Circular No. 294-2024, dated Oct. 11, 2024, and signed by Court Administrator Raul B. Villanueva, court employees have been urged to fully support the celebration especially the PCSO’s “Kawanggawa Para sa Kapwa” project.
The circular was in response to a letter sent by GM Robles and Chairman Felix P. Reyes on Sept. 9, 2024, during which they proposed that the SC consider the implementation of “Kawanggawa Para sa sa Kapwa” program during the celebration of the National Day of Charity.
This program aims to inspire government agencies, non-government organizations, civic groups, and private entities to engage in charitable and philanthropic activities that positively impact communities and improve lives.
Robles expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, saying that “We are thrilled to have the backing of various government offices, particularly the Supreme Court, which has recognized PCSO as the lead agency in this endeavor.”
It can be recalled that President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. issued Proclamation No. 598 on June 13, 2024 designating Oct. 30 as the National Day of Charity, while also designating PCSO as the lead agency in the event.
In signing the proclamation, President Marcos cited Section 9, Article 2 of the Constitution, which mandates the promotion of a just and dynamic social order to ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and free the people from poverty through policies that provide social services, promote full employment, improve the standard of living and quality of life for all.
“Bagong Pilipinas, as the overarching theme of the administration’s brand of governance and leadership, calls for deep and fundamental transformations in all sectors of society and government, and visions to emphasize compassion, solidarity and social responsibility among Filipinos,” the proclamation said.
Villanueva’s circular stresses that in accordance with Proclamation No. 598, the PCSO is tasked with leading, coordinating, and overseeing the observance of the National Day of Charity, as well as identifying relevant programs, activities, and projects for the celebration.
He also noted that all national government agencies and instrumentalities are expected to participate in this important initiative.
