By Mikee Natinga Norico

Congratulations Christian Balbanida Baldonasa, CPU alumnus and part-time faculty member, on receiving the Pusong Mahusay Award during the DSWD Field Office VI 75th Founding Anniversary celebration. CPU is proud of you!

On May 4, 2026, Central Philippine University (CPU) alumnus and part-time faculty member Christian Balbanida Baldonasa received the Pusong Mahusay Award during the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office VI’s 75th Founding Anniversary celebration and 2025 PRAISE Awards Rites held at the Diamond Jubilee Hall, Mabini Street, Iloilo City.

Baldonasa, a Bachelor of Science in Social Work graduate from the CPU College of Arts and Sciences Batch 2010, currently serves as Project Development Officer III assigned at the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) – Regional Program Management Office. He also serves as a part-time faculty member of the Social Work Department at CPU.

This year’s celebration carried the theme, “Henerasyon Ngayon Para sa Henerasyon ng Kinabukasan,” highlighting DSWD’s continued commitment to child-centered development and future-ready social protection.

The Pusong Mahusay Award is conferred upon an individual or office that demonstrates excellence in establishing and maintaining Quality Management Systems (QMS) in the delivery of DSWD programs and services.

Christian Balbanida Baldonasa (2nd from R) proudly receives the Pusong Mahusay Award alongside Rhea B. Valdellon (1st from L), OIC-Division Chief, Protective Services Division; Katherine Joy M. Lamprea (2nd from L), Assistant Regional Director for Operations; and Joselito G. Estember (1st from R), Regional Director, during the DSWD Field Office VI 75th Founding Anniversary celebration.

In an interview, Baldonasa described receiving the award as both “humbling and deeply meaningful,” saying it reminded him that the work they do in public service truly matters and is recognized.

“At the same time, it brought a renewed sense of responsibility, pushing me to be even more mindful, dedicated, and committed in everything I do,” he said. “As a government employee, this recognition inspires me to continuously strive for excellence so that our programs and services are delivered to the people efficiently, effectively, and with extra love and care.”

Baldonasa shared that his contributions to strengthening the 4Ps Division’s Quality Management System in DSWD Field Office VI played a significant role in earning the recognition. Among his initiatives were ensuring compliance with ISO standards, reviewing documents for quality assurance, addressing discrepancies, and keeping the division updated on QMS advisories.

He also spearheaded capacity-building initiatives through trainings and orientations on records management, ISO processes, and administrative systems to improve operational efficiency and reduce errors. In addition, he established focal persons for key functions and utilized communication platforms to provide timely QMS guidance and coordination.

One of his notable initiatives was the introduction of the 4Ps Staff Welfare Intervention Facilitation and Technical Assistance (SWIFT), a centralized system designed to address staff concerns and promote employee well-being. Aligned with DSWD policies on mental health and workplace safety, the program enabled timely reporting, tracking, and resolution of administrative, operational, and personal concerns. In 2024, SWIFT successfully resolved 120 staff concerns, contributing to improved workforce performance and service delivery.

When asked about his advice to fellow Centralians and public servants, Baldonasa emphasized the importance of upholding excellence and integrity in service.

“To my fellow Centralians and public servants, wherever we may be, the fact that we are graduates of Central Philippine University calls us to live out excellence in our daily work,” he said. “The CPU Work-Study Program helped shape my work ethic, discipline, and sense of responsibility. More importantly, as Christian Centralians, we are guided by Christian teachings that call us to serve with integrity, compassion, and purpose.”

The recognition of Baldonasa highlights CPU’s continued contribution to producing professionals who exemplify excellence and service, reinforcing the University’s mission of developing competent and socially responsive graduates.