Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman was the main guest today of the famous children’s program, the Ryzza Mae Show, in line with the celebration of the Children’s Month.

The Secretary gamely interacted and engaged in light banter with the child-host, Ryzza Mae, on the National Children’s Month celebration and on the different programs and services implemented by DSWD to promote children’s rights and welfare.

The appearance of Sec. Soliman in the Ryzza Mae Show aims to educate the public on the efforts being done by the government that lead to the betterment of the children.

Asked by Ryzza Mae about what the Department is doing, Sec. Soliman said, “ Ang DSWD ay naniniguro na ang mga bata ay naaalagaan, napoprotektahan, napapakain, pinag-aaral, at hindi naaabuso (DSWD makes sure that children are taken care of, protected, fed,  sent to school, and are not abused).”

Sec. Soliman also shared that DSWD is implementing the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program which provides education and health cash grants to qualified households with children 0-18 years old.

In response, Ryzza Mae reiterated the points said by Sec. Soliman and urged parents saying, “ Sa  mga magulang dapat pala talagang alagaan, pakainin,  pag-aralin at hindi maaabuso kaming mga bata (To all parents,  it is indeed your responsibility to take care of your children, send them to school,  feed them, and  ensure that  children are not abused).”

Sec. Soliman also mentioned that for the Children’s Month, DSWD will hold the 2014 National Search for Pantawid Pamilya Exemplary Child. The search aims to recognize Pantawid Pamilya children-beneficiaries who are models of excellence in both their schools and communities.

For this year, five children who are already regional winners will vie for the national title on October 25.

Sec. Soliman was impressed by the intelligence of Ryzza Mae saying that “she personifies a bright child worthy of emulation by other children.”

Sec. Soliman also taught Ryzza Mae the dance steps of DSWD’s new campaign jingle entitled “Kaya Ko Ang Pagbabago”.

The campaign brings into the fore the message that Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries have stepped up and worked hard at achieving positive changes in their lives.  ###