Versatility is how her colleagues describe her. Emelita Bolivar is currently the Center Head of Regional Home for Girls in Nueva Ecija.

She believes that whatever she does, she is doing it for the Lord. As a responsible steward of her faith, there is a desire in her heart to always do more for the good of her fellowmen. This explains her dedication to her work where there is nothing left to give but only the best.

The nominee has been with the Department since April 10, 1989. She started as a Vocational Rehabilitation Worker wherein the welfare of persons with disabilities and senior citizens are the focus of her work.

After six months was promoted to a social work position and was assigned to perform community organizing and development work. She was tasked to work with the National Reconciliation and Development Program for rebel returnees.

After two years she was assigned to handle court-related cases and later was promoted as a senior social worker. She declined to be devolved in 1992 and stayed with the Department knowing that she could be more productive with the agency. Instead, she became the provincial coordinator for the Nueva Ecija SWAT office.

In October 1999, she was tasked to help resolve the growing conflict among the staff and clients/residents at Nueva Ecija Home for Girls. The management later saw her leadership and management abilities which paved way for her to become its center head. 

She took this as a challenge. The center lack equipment and facility that will help in the rehabilitation of the children-in-care. She knew that the center was not a conducive one. 

Challenged by these conditions and more, Bolivar made a clear vision in 2000. She started to dream big and believed that building a team and a good relationship with benefactors, her vision to become a center of excellence in Region 3 will be realized. Her primary strategy is to make a difference through partnership building.

DSWD Region III is proud to have Emelita Cruz-Bolivar, 2019 PRAISE’ Best Center Head.

Story by: Sheila R. Sicat