The Standards Bureau (SB) is taking concrete steps in enhancing the safety of vulnerable residents in the centers and residential care facilities (CRCFs) and ensuring swift action against non-compliant Social Welfare and Development Agencies (SWDAs). In recent media engagements, SB Director Atty. Megan Therese Y. Manahan discussed the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) upgrading monitoring
guidelines and enforcing strict regulatory measures.

During the DSWD Thursday Media Forum last September 18, Atty. Manahan detailed the updated and enhanced guidelines for monitoring SWDAs and their residential care facilities. The primary goal of these new guidelines is to guarantee the safe and proper operation of all facilities, strengthen protection mechanisms for residents, and ensurem strict adherence to established standards by the Department.

Atty. Manahan emphasized, “The Department’s highest priority is the safety of the facilities’ residents, particularly children. The Standards Bureau immediately deploys a fact-finding team and acts swiftly upon discovery of any irregularities in SWDAs to guarantee the well-being of the children.”

During the DZMM Teleradyo program ‘Serbisyong DSWD For Every Juan’ last August 16, Atty. Manahan provided an update on the Cease and Desist Order (CDO) issued against the New Life Baptist Church of Mexico, Pampanga Inc. (NLBCMPI), highlighting the Bureau’s commitment to enforcement.

Atty. Manahan explained that the 30-day CDO was issued due to alleged child abuse violations and the organization’s failure to comply with the DSWD’s standards for registration, licensing, and accreditation.

She reiterated that issuing a CDO is an immediate regulatory remedy to ensure the clients of erring registered and licensed SWDAs are immediately placed under protective custody. During the DSWD Thursday Media Forum, Atty. Manahan stressed that this action is always taken in the best interest of the child, especially when violations pose an imminent danger to their safety and well-being.

The SB’s actions underscore the DSWD’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of care and protection for all clients in the CRCFs. The Bureau continues to regulate and monitor all SWDAs to ensure a safe, nurturing, and standardized environment for the most vulnerable members of society. (MGCBA)