October 30 declared as National Day of Charity

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has declared Oct. 30 of every year as “National Day of Charity” as part of the Marcos administration’s vision to promote compassion, solidarity and social responsibility among Filipinos.

Under Proclamation 598, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin by the authority of President Marcos on June 13, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) is tasked to lead, coordinate and supervise the observance of the National Day of Charity and identify the programs, activities and projects for the celebration.

“The PCSO has shown its dedication to fulfil its mandate through the provision of medical services, the conduct of free medical and dental services, the establishment of an out-patient clinic and its partnerships with qualified government and non-government welfare institutions/agencies that promote the well-being of the marginalized sectors of society,” the proclamation read.

All government agencies and instrumentalities – including government-owned or -controlled corporations, financial institutions, local government units, state universities and colleges – and non-government organizations and the private sector are directed and encouraged to participate in the observance.

In signing the proclamation, Marcos cited Section 9, Article II of the Constitution, which mandates the promotion of “a just and dynamic social order to ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and free the people from poverty through policies that provide social services, promote full employment, improve the standard of living and quality of life for all.”

“Bagong Pilipinas, as the overarching theme of the administration’s brand of governance and leadership, calls for deep and fundamental transformations in all sectors of society and government, and visions to emphasize compassion, solidarity and social responsibility among Filipinos,” the proclamation stated.