You are on page 1of 1

Once upon a time, in the Philippines during the Commonwealth period, a wave of change swept

across the land. Social welfare services were in the hands of the Americans, but the Filipino spirit
was ready for a transformation.

In 1932, a dynamic leader named Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. took the stage as Governor-General. With
determination, he set out to reorganize and integrate all public health and welfare agencies. It was
like a grand puzzle, but Roosevelt was determined to put the pieces together and create a
masterpiece of social welfare.

But the story doesn't stop there. Along came Frank Murphy, a dynamic successor to Roosevelt. With
his innovative ideas on social welfare and public health, he brought a fresh perspective to the table.
His goal? To ensure the happiness and health of every Filipino.

As Murphy embarked on his mission, he realized he needed a team of experts. Dr. Jose Fabella, the
Director of Public Welfare, and Dr. Jacobo Fajardo, the Director of the Bureau of Health, became his
trusty sidekicks. They were like the dynamic duo of social welfare, ready to swoop in and save the
day. But first, they needed some training, so off they went on an adventure abroad to study and
prepare for the grand social programs Murphy had in mind.

Meanwhile, behind the scenes, a secret weapon named George Dunham emerged. Dunham was a
technical adviser on public health. Armed with charts, graphs, and a pocket full of witty one-liners,
he mapped out a comprehensive program of health and welfare services that would make heads
spin. Like the James Bond of social welfare, he was always one step ahead of the game.

As the Commonwealth government took shape, Manuel L. Quezon stepped into the spotlight as the
first president. Known for his deep care for the people, Quezon championed social justice through
various laws and the establishment of social welfare agencies. His aim? To create a fair and just
society for all.

President Quezon's administration was all about social justice. He fought for laws against usury,
championed the eight-hour workday, and even fixed minimum wages. It was like a social justice
circus, with Quezon as the ringmaster, cracking his whip and making sure everyone got their fair
share of the popcorn.

But the real stars of the show were the unsung heroes of social welfare. Dr. Jose Fabella,
affectionately known as the "Father of Philippine Social Welfare," was like the superhero of the
field. With his trusty stethoscope and a cape made of compassion, he established puericulture
centers and fought against juvenile delinquency. He was like the Superman of social work, always
ready to leap tall buildings in a single bound to help those in need.

And then there was Asuncion A. Perez, the Grand Lady of Philippine Social Work. With her elegant
style and quick wit, she organized the unemployed and their families, demanding justice and
creating the National Relief Administration (NRA). She was like a social justice diva, strutting her
stuff and making sure everyone knew who was boss.

Amidst the struggles for freedom and social well-being, the Filipino people united. They fought for
fair treatment from landowners, organizing demonstrations and court cases to protect their rights.
Their determination and resilience were an inspiration to all.

And so, during the Commonwealth period, a tale of hope and progress unfolded. It was a time of
transformation, where leaders and unsung heroes worked together to create a better future. Their
efforts paved the way for a more just and compassionate society, where the well-being of every
Filipino was valued and protected.

You might also like