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The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 7–Central Visayas joined the 2025 nationwide gift-giving activity, Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya, on December 6, 2025, at the AVRC II Multi-Purpose Hall in Cebu City.

Staff and residents of the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC), the Home for Girls, and the Regional Haven for Women.

Residents and clients of the Centers and Residential Care Facilities (CRCFs), namely, the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC), the Home for Girls, the Regional Haven for Women, and the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY), received gifts from President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.

Each recipient received a bag from the First Couple containing a tumbler, lunch box set, and hygiene kit, personally distributed by DSWD 7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero.

Now in its fourth year, Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya has become a meaningful holiday tradition for residents and clients of DSWD-managed CRCFs, particularly those under DSWD 7. This year’s celebration also benefitted children from 78 Department of Education schools and 56 satellite centers or CRCFs managed by DSWD across the country.

“We are very grateful that every year, our children, women, the boys at the RRCY, and our persons with disabilities have the chance to receive gifts from our president,” Director Lucero said.

Director Lucero added that in previous years, aside from the gift-giving, children enjoyed various activities such as magic shows, food carts, games, and the traditional ‘salo-salo’ during Christmas and New Year’s Day. “For children staying at our residential facilities, they also share meals on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. At AVRC II, a Christmas gathering is also held for the PWDs,” she added.

The same activities are scheduled for December 25, 2025, on Christmas Day, and January 1, 2026, on New Year’s Day. “There will be exciting activities for our residents and clients on these special days,” Director Lucero said.

The President’s initiative highlights his administration’s commitment to creating meaningful holiday experiences for Filipino children and individuals residing in DSWD centers. ###