By Karren Jay G. Asgar
CPU congratulates Centralian Dr. Lazaro G. Petinglay, RSW, MSSW, PSWD Officer, on his election as President of the League of Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officers of the Philippines.
Dr. Lazaro Gillegao Petinglay, RSW, MSSW, PSWD Officer, and CPU BS Social Work Batch 1989 graduate, has been elected as the President of the League of Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officers of the Philippines (LPSWDO-P).
Known for his dedication to social service and community development, Dr. Petinglay aims to unite social welfare officers nationwide and strengthen the delivery of programs that improve the lives of Filipinos, guided by the leadership, courage, and compassion he cultivated during his time at CPU.
Reflecting on his college years, Dr. Petinglay credited CPU for shaping his leadership skills and advocacy for social justice. “I really appreciated my experience at CPU during my college days, which shaped my leadership. I was given the freedom to excel as a student leader of the CPU Junior Association of Social Workers. CPU taught me to lead with courage and compassion,” he added.
As president of League of Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officers of the Philippines, Dr. Petinglay envisions creating a strong network of social welfare officers who actively collaborate with Local Government Units, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the ASEAN Social Work Consortium. “My goal is to unite our officers to be active partners in delivering social services to our communities and to advocate for policy reforms that uplift the lives of Filipinos,” he explained.
He also shared advice for fellow Centralians and aspiring social welfare leaders: “Stay true to your values, embrace education and faith, and lead with integrity. Students should be proactive, patient, and willing to learn, and start leading early to prepare for the future. Act as a model and be inspired by the vision and mission of CPU,” he added.
Dr. Petinglay’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to the community and a reminder of the potential within every Centralian to make a meaningful impact in their chosen field.