As the nation traverses its socio-political landscape, Vice President Sara Duterte remains unwavering in her commitment to narrowing the gap between governance and the populace, solidifying the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) presence in far-flung regions. Amid the tribulations encountered in 2023, including the contentious issues surrounding her office’s confidential funds, Duterte forged ahead, expanding OVP’s reach and fortifying its services.
In a remarkable stride toward decentralization, she inaugurated extension offices in Lipa, Batangas, and Tondo, Manila, complementing the ten satellite offices established in various provinces back in 2022. This strategic move aligns with Duterte’s vision to extend governmental support to underserved Filipino communities, especially those situated in remote areas.
“Before assuming the role of Vice President, my travels across the Philippines revealed the pressing need to transport government services to provinces, particularly in the impoverished regions,” Duterte emphasized in a comprehensive video highlighting OVP’s achievements in 2023.
Expressing concern for citizens lacking access to essential governmental aid, she articulated, “Many of our fellow countrymen in rural provinces require government services, yet often find themselves devoid of avenues for assistance.”
Fundamentally, the OVP’s pivotal focus revolves around manifold programs and projects, prominently featuring initiatives such as the Medical Assistance Program, Burial Assistance Program, Mag Negosyo Ta ‘Day, Pagbabago: A Million Learners and Trees, PanSarap, Kalusugan Food Truck, Disaster Operations Center, Relief for Individuals in Crisis and Emergencies, You Can Be VP, and Libreng Sakay.
In her report, the Vice President highlighted the extensive support rendered through the medical and burial services, channeling a staggering amount of P1.27 billion for medical needs, benefiting 106,958 individuals, and P130.3 million for 22,470 families in burying their departed loved ones.
The Libreng Sakay Program, a beacon of relief for commuters during peak hours in Metro Manila and other provinces, extended aid to 523,263 individuals in Metro Manila, 89,605 in Bacolod, 60,409 in Davao, and 99,633 in Cebu, showcasing its widespread impact.
Undertaken in collaboration with the private sector, these initiatives signify a robust partnership that fortifies the OVP’s objectives. Duterte’s Disaster Operations Center orchestrated 162 relief operations, disbursing P69.1 million worth of aid, including 23,807 relief boxes, 11,610 food bags, and 438,180 other essential items, benefiting 115,045 families during calamities.
Of personal significance to Duterte is the Mag-Negosyo Ta ‘Day Program, initially launched during her tenure as Davao City’s mayor, which has now expanded to assist various sectors, including the LGBTQ community, empowering them through grants totaling P150,000 each for four organizations, encompassing 25,765 members.
Simultaneously, in her capacity as the country’s Education Secretary, Duterte is fervently advocating for youth engagement in leadership roles. The You Can Be VP Program facilitates hands-on leadership experiences, with participants representing the Vice President during international engagements, symbolizing the aspirations and capabilities of Filipino youth.
Recognizing the invaluable role of private sector collaborations, Sara Duterte underscored the OVP’s 749 partnerships, comprising 30 international and 596 local engagements. These collaborations, she emphasized, play a pivotal role in delivering meaningful programs and services to the Filipino populace.
Despite political upheavals challenging the once-steadfast UniTeam, Sara Duterte persists in finding avenues to serve the people. In her 2023 report, she pledged an unwavering commitment to continue delivering exemplary, impactful, and relevant programs and projects.
“You are our inspiration to persist as dedicated and effective public servants,” Duterte affirmed, acknowledging the public’s pivotal role in propelling the OVP’s mission forward.