MALITA, Davao Occidental — Students, faculty, and social work practitioners gathered on March 17 at the SPAMAST Founder’s Hall to commemorate World Social Work Day 2026, embracing the global theme “Co-building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.” The event convened stakeholders from the academe and professional sector, highlighting the vital role of social workers in fostering inclusive communities and addressing social fragmentation. Organized as a platform for reflection and engagement, the celebration underscored the urgency of collective action in advancing social cohesion and human dignity.
The program opened with ceremonial preliminaries, followed by welcome remarks from Prof. Karla C. Aspacio, MS, who emphasized the responsibility of emerging social workers in nation-building. Messages of support were delivered by SPAMAST SUC President Dr. Lynette A. Bontia, PASWI Davao Occidental Vice President Arlene V. Getalla, and Institute of Human Services Dean Dr. Jonel Mark D. Sarno, each affirming the profession’s commitment to responsive and people-centered service. The keynote address by Atty. Romelyn Barrios-Magallanes, MSWDO Head of Sta. Maria, further highlighted the need for strengthened partnerships across sectors to address evolving social challenges.
The event concluded with the awarding of certificates and tokens, expressions of gratitude, and a collective reaffirmation of purpose through hymns and a closing ceremony. More than a commemorative gathering, the observance aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 1 on ending poverty, Goal 3 on ensuring good health and well-being, Goal 10 on reducing inequalities, and Goal 16 on promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions. Through initiatives such as this, SPAMAST reinforces its role in advancing social transformation and contributing to a more just, inclusive, and harmonious society.
