Mercedez Cruz is the 2nd Best Social Worker recognized during the 2019 PRAISE Awards of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Starting as a Social Welfare Officer I for Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons in 2012, Mercedes Cruz worked her way into becoming one of the youngest Social Welfare Officer II in a permanent position.

Armed with her valuable work ethics and passion to serve the vulnerable, she is regarded as one of the assets of the DSWD Provincial Extension Office of Bulacan.

As a Social Worker, Cruz has various responsibilities such as handling special cases referred by the Regional Office; carries out adoption processes; acting as a Special Disbursing Officer for cash assistance under E-AICS, Social Pension and Sustainable Livelihood Program; performing as a Quick Response Team Leader, and providing Technical Assistance to LSWDOs regarding office functionality.

She is an advocate of legal adoption and children and women’s rights. At an early age. She is able to assume leadership of the province as an Officer-In-Charge in the absence of the Provincial Team Leader.

Cruz showed consistent dedication to her work. Even when she was assigned as a Social Welfare Assistant (permanent) at DPEO Bulacan, she managed to take on responsibilities beyond her Terms Of Reference (TOR) due to the demand in the service.

She is making sure that services are delivered to the clients swiftly and efficiently. She would often forego her personal needs and prioritize those who are needing assistance. Capable and dependable, Cruz gained the trust of those she works with.

She was recognized as the Best Social Worker in the Provincial Level and was also recognized for Character Transparency in Public Service (CY 2018). She was part of the Best Operations Office on the 2017 DSWD NATIONAL PRAISE Award and 2018 CSC PAG-ASA Reginal Winner (Group Category).

For all these and more, she has given a great reputation to the social work profession, as well as to the department.

Story by: Nielady Gianina P. Cacanindin