PCSO @ 90 - CHARITY: A NATIONAL FOCUS

On October 30, 2024, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) will not only celebrate its 90th anniversary, but also marks a watershed moment in President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s government's firm commitment to charitable initiatives.

It's because this milestone is not just a celebration of nearly a century of PCSO's charitable service, but also a remarkable juncture in history, as it coincides with the first-ever National Day of Charity, as declared by President Marcos Jr. on June 13 this year.

With that declaration, the President effectively elevated charity works and programs as one of the administration's priority programs and agenda, paving the way for a more compassionate society.

And after almost a century of its existence, the PCSO is fortunate because the national government has finally realized that charity works and initiatives can be effective tools for national progress especially under the Bagong Pilipinas, as the overarching theme of the administration's brand of governance and leadership.

For the longest time, the PCSO has stayed in the background faithfully and dutifully complying with its mandate of providing assistance to those in need, until President Marcos Jr. decided to make charity initiatives as one of the most important building blocks for national development.

The declaration of the National Day of Charity has reinforced his calls for deep and fundamental transformations in all sectors of society and government, and visions to emphasize compassion, solidarity and social responsibility among Filipinos.

This year's theme, "Charity: A National Focus," clearly highlights the Philippine government's commitment to fostering a culture of giving and extending a helping hand for those in need.

Likewise, it was in compliance with Section 9, Article II of the Constitution which states that the State shall promote a just and dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation, and free the people from poverty through policies that provide adequate social services, promote full employment, a rising standard of living, and an improved quality of life for all.