Angeles City, Pampanga – In a continued effort to address the growing needs of the homeless and displaced, Mayor Jon Lazatin has spearheaded a city-led reach-out initiative aimed at offering direct support, intervention, and guidance to vulnerable individuals in the city. The program emphasizes compassion and community reintegration, focusing on long-term solutions beyond temporary assistance.
The recently conducted operation was carried out in partnership with several city and regional agencies, including the City Tourism Office, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), Councilor Ron Pineda, the City Tourist Information and Visitor Engagement (CTIVE), Women and Children Protection Desk of the Angeles City Police Office (WCPD-ACPO), Barangay officials, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region III (DSWD-III). The collaboration reflects a whole-of-government approach in tackling homelessness and displacement.
The outreach activity covered two barangays—Pampang and Sto. Rosario—where a total of 42 individuals were assisted. The group comprised 21 adults (9 women and 12 men) and 21 minors (4 girls and 17 boys). These individuals were provided with basic needs, health assessments, and referrals to appropriate shelters or reformation centers.
Among the 21 adults served, six received their first formal warnings, a preventive measure to discourage return to the streets. The remaining fifteen adults were referred to the DSWD Pang-Abot program, which offers services such as temporary shelter, counseling, and livelihood assistance to help them rebuild their lives.
As for the 21 minors, the city ensured that all were directed toward safe and nurturing environments. Twelve of the minors were endorsed for referral to the Kanlungan ng Kabataan Reformation Center, where they will receive proper care, education, and guidance. The remaining nine minors were referred to the DSWD Pang-Abot program and successfully reintegrated into their families and communities in Porac.
This initiative aligns with the city’s goal of not only providing short-term aid but also fostering long-term change through reeducation, psychological support, and skill development. Mayor Lazatin emphasized that the city’s outreach efforts are anchored in empathy, with the aim of helping individuals rediscover their self-worth and potential.
The Angeles City government continues to strengthen its social welfare programs to ensure that no one is left behind. With the sustained support of various agencies and community leaders, the city remains committed to uplifting the lives of its most vulnerable residents and promoting inclusive growth for all.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
