BUTUAN CITY – The government’s poverty alleviation and social services program in Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga region) has found a new partner, the German Development Service (GDS) group.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga region welcomed the GDS group, saying “this is a big contributory factor in their social services and poverty alleviation program.”

The partnership between the DSWD and GDS was sealed last May 18, said Region Xlll DSWD spokeswoman Leah Quintana.

Caraga Region DSWD led by Regional Director Mercedita P. Jabagat and Assistant Regional Director Mita G. Lim warmly welcomed their new partners.

Jean Paul Parajes, Planning Officer III of DSWD Caraga, presented Thursday a brief orientation to partners of DSWD’s programs and services to GDS representatives and staff.

On the other hand, Caroline Sperling, GDS’s Civil Peace Service (CPS) Program Coordinator, oriented the officers and members of the field office’s staff on the basic information on GDS partner cooperation and the CPS. She said CPS contributes to non-violent conflict resolution and sustainable and just peace.

In his message, Ulrich Krausse, Civil Peace Service expert assigned to DSWD, expressed delight in working with the Philippine government. “I am happy to work with DSWD,” he said.