Saint Louis University (SLU) has been recognized by the Department of Social Welfare Development (DSWD)-Cordillera Administrative Region as an Iyaman Awardee during the 74th DSWD Anniversary Celebration held 4 April 2025 at the Newtown Plaza Hotel, Baguio City.
The Iyaman awards recognize volunteers, donors and partners of DSWD. The recognition validates SLU’s unwavering support and outstanding contribution to the successful implementation of DSWD programs and services in the CAR in 2024 under the Bayanihang Bayan Program.
During the awarding ceremony, DSWD undersecretary, Dr. Denise Florence B. Bragas, delivered the anniversary message of DSWD secretary Rex Gatchalian. The secretary’s message highlighted the collaborative and multidisciplinary work of the “angels in red vests” as they carry out their avowed commitment of delivering social services in their respective field work.
Aside from the academic institutions, namely Baguio Central University, Benguet State University, Cordillera Career Development College, King’s College of the Philippines, STEP Learning Academy, University of the Philippines Baguio, agencies from the local government units and civil society organizations also received other awards such as the Paglaray Awards, Panata Awards and Sustainable Innovation Award. Assistant Regional Director Enrique Gascon closed the event with a message about honoring persons served by DSWD in the Cordillera and highlighting the theme, “Bawat Pamilya ay Mahalaga sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
SLU’s recognition as an Iyaman Awardee aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 10 (Reduced Inequalities), 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). It also affirms the CICM advocacy of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation. (Article by Triceayn Marie De Guzman – Prestousa | Photos from Ms. De Guzman-Prestousa and UIO)
