The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office IX (DSWD-9) formally launched its 75th anniversary celebration with a vibrant opening salvo dubbed “Sundown Spectacle” held on January 31, 2026, against the scenic backdrop of the Zamboanga City sunset.

The opening ceremony featured a colorful marching parade that started from Zamboanga City Hall and culminated at Paseo del Mar, Pettit Barracks. The parade was participated in by various divisions of the regional office, including provincial offices, rehabilitation centers, and care facilities, showcasing unity and pride among DSWD-9 personnel.

At the Paseo Del Mar, DSWD employees presented performances that highlighted the dances of the decades from the 50s to the year 2000s which set a festive tone for the anniversary celebration. Members of the DSWD-9 Management Committee and Executive Committee were present to show their full support for the festivity.

In his message of solidarity, Regional Director Riduan P. Hadjimuddin emphasized the importance of fostering a work environment that promotes healthy relationships, teamwork, and sportsmanship among employees.

This year’s 75th anniversary celebration carries the theme “Henerasyon ngayon para sa henerasyon ng kinabukasan,” underscoring DSWD’s enduring commitment to serving both present and future generations.

During the opening salvo, DSWD-9 Regional Information Officer, Ivan Eric Salvador, the lead organizer of the anniversary activities, presented the month-long lineup of events in celebration of DSWD’s Diamond Jubilee. These include wellness activities, a Serbisyo Forum, a Galaxy-themed fun run, food and fair bazaar, sports and games, creative parade, video spoof competition, Facebook Reels competition, and a light dance competition.

The DSWD marks its founding anniversary every January 3, commemorating the merger of the Social Welfare Commission (SWC) and the President’s Action Committee on Social Amelioration (PACSA) into the Social Welfare Administration (SWA) through Executive Order No. 396, issued on January 3, 1951.

At the end of the day, the Sundown Spectacle served as a beautiful reminder of the vast public service that the Department offers just like the horizon of Zamboanga’s mesmerizing sunset.