Filipinos expressed overwhelming support for the government’s livelihood efforts for persons with disabilities (PWDs), based on the latest national survey by Pulse Asia. The findings highlight how initiatives under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) continue to resonate with communities that rely on accessible and sustainable economic opportunities.
According to results from the Sept. 27–30 survey, 88 percent of respondents nationwide said they approve of the livelihood assistance being provided to PWDs through the agency’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). The strong numbers further affirm the push for programs aimed at improving the quality of life of vulnerable groups across the country.
RELATED: [Discounted Fare: DOTr Distributes White Beep Cards For Priority Sectors]
Public Trust in DSWD Initiatives Remains High
DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao welcomed the results, underscoring that the positive perception reflects the agency’s ongoing efforts to deliver meaningful and transparent public service under Secretary Rexlon “Rex” Gatchalian.
“As Secretary Gatchalian continually reminds us, public service must be direct and genuinely beneficial to the people and this is exactly what our social workers aim to deliver to persons with disabilities,” Dumlao said.
Pulse Asia noted that approval for PWD livelihood support ranged from 79 percent to 96 percent across regions, showing that trust remains strong even in areas facing persistent social and economic challenges. Support was also consistent nationwide across socioeconomic groups, with approval ratings spanning 88 percent to 90 percent.
Efforts to Strengthen Support for Vulnerable Sectors
Dumlao emphasized that persons with disabilities are consistently among the DSWD’s highest priorities. She noted that survey results fuel the department’s determination to enhance existing programs and address gaps that make daily life difficult for beneficiaries.
She also encouraged continued cooperation from the public, noting that community participation and confidence help improve the delivery of social protection nationwide. “She encouraged the public to continue trusting and supporting DSWD initiatives, noting that strong cooperation from citizens will help build a more efficient, dependable, and responsive system of governance,” the advisory stated.
The agency added that the quarterly Ulat ng Bayan survey gathers insights from 1,200 Filipino adults, providing an important snapshot of the country’s sentiments toward government-led social interventions.
For many ordinary Filipinos, especially those belonging to marginalized sectors, these findings underscore the importance of reliable livelihood support programs that open economic opportunities, strengthen dignity, and promote long-term inclusion across communities.
