The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office IX officially launched the Social Case Management Service (SCMS) in Zamboanga City on September 25, 2025, marking a vital step in the government’s peacebuilding efforts under the Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa (PDBBM) Program.

The SCMS is designed to strengthen support and encourage community participation for former members of non-state armed groups (FMNSAGs). The launch, held at the Astoria Hotel, underscores the importance of a multi-sectoral, holistic approach to healing, social reintegration, and sustainable development for individuals and communities affected by armed conflict.

The milestone was made possible through the leadership and unwavering support of Usec. Alan A. Tanjusay, Head of the Peace and Development Group, who represented DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian.

In his message, Secretary Gatchalian expressed deep appreciation for the stakeholders’ support and underscored the SCMS’s importance in continuously building peace and trust in conflict-vulnerable and affected areas, ensuring that communities are heard and assisted.

Undersecretary Tanjusay and Atty. Laisa Alamia, Consultant for the Task Force on Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities (TFDCC) and GPH TFDCC Chair, joined DSWD FO IX Regional Director Riduan P. Hadjimuddin, CESO III, and Assistant Regional Director for Operations Ma. Socorro S. Macaso in expressing their full support.

During the ceremony, these officials signed a Pledge of Commitment, symbolizing the agencies’ dedication to the program’s goals.

This initiative strengthens the collaboration between national and local government agencies, ensuring the provision of holistic assistance for conflict-affected communities.

The launch was further supported by Regional Program Coordinator Ms. Evelyn D. Lingatong and staff from both the Central Office and the Regional Program Management Office (RPMO) ; Representatives from the provinces of Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, Sulu, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, and Isabela City, as well as Zamboanga City.

Other Partner Agencies and Academic Institutions who attended, reflecting a united front in advancing peace and development.

More than just a program, the Social Case Management Service is a pathway to peaceful reintegration, stability, and productivity, helping to create a future where lasting peace and development are within reach for all.