Angeles City Social Welfare and Development Officer Edna Duaso has been named one of the Outstanding Social Workers in the Philippines.

This recognition was revealed through a letter sent by the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI), the professional organization for social workers duly accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), to Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr..

Mayor Lazatin expressed pride in Duaso’s achievement, and noted Duaso’s contribution in ensuring the welfare of Angeleños.

“A person very well deserving of the award.  Katuwang po natin buhat noon si Ms. Duaso sa paghahatid ng mga serbisyo para sa mga Angeleños,” Lazatin said. 

Duaso been engaged in public service for more than three decades, sent her heartfelt gratitude to the PASWI Angeles City Chapter for their nomination.

“This will not be possible if not for your nomination to me as one of the Outstanding Social Workers in the Philippines,” Duaso said.

Duaso said her contribution to the Social Work profession is because this is where she found her “real joy” through the mantra “to serve and to care” for the marginalized sector.

She underscored the trust being given to her by the Angeleños, as well the Lazatin administration in achieving this milestone, and acknowledged the collective hardwork between the CSWDO staff and key offices. 

“Para sainyo po ang award na ito,” Duaso said. 

Duaso is set to receive a Medal and Plaque of Recognition on Sept. 22, 2023 at the Fiesta Pavilion, The Manila Hotel. 

To recall, it was in 2021 that the International Justice Mission recognized the city government for saving 400 street children through its continuous rescue operation, a program launched by Lazatin, which is being supervised by CSWDO with Chief Adviser IC Calaguas and Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel.