ILOILO City – What began as a reintegration story for one family has now paved the way for a community-driven enterprise in Barangay San Isidro, which recently secured a P2-million grant from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for a water refilling station project.
Far from being just a livelihood initiative, the project under DSWD’s Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) Pag-Abot Program represents a broader push to strengthen receiving communities—those that welcome back individuals or families who once lived on the streets or in unstable housing situations in urban areas.
“This is another engagement with the city government of Iloilo, which we believe will benefit our sectors, especially those reintegrated into the receiving community,” said DSWD regional director Arwin Razo, highlighting the project’s dual goal of social reintegration and community development.
Barangay San Isidro, which earlier welcomed home the family of Raphy Padernilla after years in Manila without permanent shelter, was selected for the grant as part of DSWD’s effort to link reintegration with sustainable livelihood. The barangay will manage the water refilling station, ensuring the project stays community-owned. One member of the reintegrated family will also be employed at the facility, ensuring direct economic inclusion.
The city government had previously provided housing support to the Padernilla family. Now, with Raphy working as a job hire at a local university, further support may follow. He is eligible for additional individual livelihood assistance under the Pag-Abot Program, should he pursue a separate venture.
The Pag-Abot Program goes beyond aid — it aims to equip returning individuals and their communities with tools for resilience. It offers nine assistance packages, from relocation and shelter aid to psychosocial and employment support.
With more Iloilo families reportedly expressing interest in returning home from Metro Manila, DSWD Regional Coordinator Atty. May Rago-Gelogo said the program is gearing up to receive referrals from the national government, underscoring the growing momentum of reintegration as a path to inclusive development./PN
