Manila, Feb. 19 -- Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian is optimistic that the agency's tie-up program with the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) dubbed "Angel Pets" will further affirm the efficiency of animal-assisted therapy in the Philippines.

"Animal-assisted therapy is a unique concept in the Philippines. It's been done before, but not in an institutionalized and sustainable way. We hope this program will demonstrate its positive effects and boost public trust in this approach," Gatchalian said during the re-launch of Angel Pets at the Sanctuary Center in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday.

Initially launched during the PAWS' anniversary in October 2024, the Angel Pets program is designed ...