PCSO's day of charity gets strong support

THE National Day of Charity on October 30 spearheaded by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) received widespread support including a strong endorsement from the Supreme Court.

Through a directive from the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA), the high court has mobilized first and second-level courts to actively participate in the observance of the National Day of Charity.

OCA Circular 294-2024, issued on October 11 and signed by Court Administrator Raul Villanueva is promoting the initiative, calling on court employees nationwide to fully support the celebration, particularly focusing on the PCSO's flagship project, «Kawanggawa Para sa Kapwa.»

Proposed by PCSO General Manager Mel Robles and Chairman Felix Reyes in a letter to the Supreme Court in September, the initiative aims to inspire a «collective spirit of philanthropy and charity.»

Through «Kawanggawa Para sa Kapwa,» government agencies, non-government organizations, civic groups, and private entities are encouraged to conduct activities that improve the lives of marginalized communities.

The PCSO, which has been designated as the lead agency for the observance, is optimistic about the success of the event. Robles expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support received from key government offices, particularly the Supreme Court.

«We are thrilled to have the backing of various government offices, especially the Supreme Court, which has recognized PCSO as the lead agency in this endeavor,» he said in a statement issued over the weekend. «This collaboration reflects the shared vision of uplifting the lives of our fellow Filipinos through collective efforts in charity and compassion.»

The National Day of Charity was recognized by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. through Proclamation 598, issued on June 13, 2024. The proclamation sets October 30 as the annual day for charity activities, underscoring the importance of fostering a just and dynamic social order. President Marcos pointed to Section 9, Article 2 of the Constitution, which mandates policies that promote social services, reduce poverty, and improve the overall quality of life for Filipinos.

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