Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, good afternoon.
I address you today with an expanded perspective on our strategies, emphasizing the imperative of breaking the cycle of poverty through prioritizing developmental programs. Recognizing the critical importance of a whole-of-nation approach, our interventions are designed to foster sustainable social progress and inclusivity through the synergy of government agencies, private sectors, NGOs, and local communities.
Recently, we signed the Philippines-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2024-2028, which charts the areas of cooperation between the Philippines and the UN. One of the main outcome priorities of the UNSDCF on human capital development, inclusion, and resilience building envisions that by 2028, all Filipinos all people, especially those at risk of being left behind, have increased resilience to economic, climatic, disaster, and public health risk through improved, equitable, and gender-responsive access to and utilization of quality social services, social protection, healthy habitat, enhanced good governance and peace.
Our commitment to holistic social policies extends beyond rhetoric to tangible actions, prioritizing developmental programs that delve into the root causes of poverty. Education, skills training, and healthcare initiatives are not mere components but the foundational pillars of our strategy. Our aim is clear - to empower individuals with the necessary tools to break free from the entanglements of the cycle of poverty.
In the Philippines, our pursuit of breaking the poverty cycle is manifested in our commitment to community-driven development. Initiatives such as the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI CIDSS) exemplify our approach. This program goes beyond conventional methodologies by directly involving local communities in the identification, planning, and implementation of development projects. Through KALAHI CIDSS, solutions are not imposed but are meticulously tailored to meet the specific needs and aspirations of each community.
Moreover, legislative initiatives, such as enacting the Philippines Conditional Cash Transfer Act, underscore the government's unwavering commitment to ensuring the sustainability of social programs.
In conclusion, let it be a resounding call to action for our global community. Together, let us champion the cause of breaking the cycle of poverty through holistic, community-driven approaches and legislative initiatives.
Thank you.