President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a proclamation declaring June 19 of every year as “Filipino Social Workers Day” to recognize the “indispensable role” of social workers in nation-building.

In signing Proclamation No. 1176 on June 25, Duterte directed the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to lead, coordinate, and supervise the nationwide observance of the Filipino Social Workers Day.

“The State recognizes the indispensable role of social workers and their invaluable contribution to nation-building, especially in the implementation of the social protection initiatives of the government,” the proclamation read.

The proclamation also emphasized the need to spread awareness about the qualities that make a Filipino social worker.

“There is a need to raise awareness of the unwavering commitment, dedication, and altruism of Filipino social workers, and their significant role in the reduction of various socioeconomic vulnerabilities of individuals, families, and communities in the country,” it added.

All other agencies and instrumentalities of the national government, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, are also directed and all local government units, non-government organizations, and civil society groups are encouraged to actively participate and render the necessary support and assistance to the DSWD for the effective implementation of the proclamation.

Republic Act (RA) No. 4373 or An Act to Regulate the Practice of Social Work and the Operation of Social Work Agencies in the Philippines and for Other Purposes” was enacted on June 19, 1965.

Section 9, Article II of the Constitution declares it a policy of the state to promote a just and dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and free the people from poverty through policies that will provide adequate social services.