EPCALM strengthens collaboration with social welfare and development agencies

As a continuing capacity building program, EPCALM recently joined the 4^th Area-Based Standards Network (ABSNet) Assembly (Central Cluster), organized by the Standards Bureau of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (SB-DSWD).

The DSWD promotes the organization of the ABSNET clusters as an effective strategy to institutionalize collaboration with social welfare and development agencies (SDWAs), to constitute as the intermediaries of the DSWD. 

The online activity was conducted to:

1. Facilitate interaction among Central Cluster members;

2. Celebrate the advocacies, products, and services of participating organizations; and 

3. Express solidarity with communities affected by recent calamities.

The virtual meeting gathered ABSNET Central Cluster member-organizations to strengthen partnerships, share best practices, and reaffirm their commitment to social development and humanitarian services.

It was highlighted by an “Online Caravan”, with selected groups presenting their products and services. These included the following:

1. Link Center for the Deaf, Inc.: 

2. Laura Vicuna Foundation

3. Haligi ng Bata, Inc.   

4. ATRIEV

5. T3 Foundation, Inc.

6.  Pro-Life Philippines Foundation, Inc.

7. CFC ANCOP Global Foundation, Inc 

8. Made in Hope Philippines 

9. Alban Memorial Foundation, Inc.

Overall, the ABSNet Central Cluster 4^th Assembly was a meaningful venue for collaboration, learning, and mutual support, reinforcing the strength and unity of the ABSNet community. (By Sr. Minerva F. Jumawid)