Social protection gab in PHL slated

Policymakers, researchers, and members of civil society will converge in Makati on Mondayto discuss ways on how to strengthen social protection in the Philippines. 
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) and state think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS)are collaborating to hold a “National Consultation on Strengthening Social Protection in the Philippines” on 8 July at 9 am to 3:30 pm at the PIDS, NEDAsa Makati Building, 106 Amorsolo St., Makati City.
The main objective of the National Consultation is to give key stakeholders an opportunity to review, discuss, and provide feedback on the preliminary research findings of a national study on social protection in the Philippines.The research results will be integrated into a practical, policy-oriented interregional online toolbox and will provide support to national level initiatives, promote the exchange of experiences, formulate capacity-building activities, and document innovative schemes for achieving fairer and more effective universal social protection models.
The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps, the largest poverty reduction and social development program that the government has ever conceived, with a budget of P39.5 billion, will be tackled in the forum. Dr. Celia Reyes, PIDS Senior Research Fellow, conducted a study on the effectiveness of the 4Ps in achieving its health and education objectives.One of her most significant recommendations is for the 4Ps to provide longer periods of assistance to its present beneficiaries in order for them to finish high school and attain better employment outcomes.
Confirmed to attend the forum are DSWD Undersecretary for Operations and Programs Group Parisya H. Taradyi, representing Secretary Corazon Soliman, UNESCAP Social Development Division Chief Patrik Anderson, and new PIDS President Gilberto Llanto. You may check the attached program for your reference.