The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Standards Bureau (SB) successfully concluded its multi-region Civil Society Organization (CSO) Registration and Licensing (RL) Caravans, a strategic initiative aimed at ensuring that Social Welfare and Development Agencies (SWDAs) comply with the necessary government mandates.

The specialized caravans were conducted across five (5) key regions: National Capital Region (NCR), Region III (Central Luzon), Region IV-A (CALABARZON), Region XI (Davao Region), and Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN).

The primary purpose of the event was to provide one-on-one technical assistance to SWDAs. This hands-on approach was specifically designed to help agencies submit complete and compliant documentary requirements through the DSWD’s digital platform, the Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS). The HELPS is the DSWD’s streamlined online portal for regulatory services, aiming to fast track the process of obtaining certificates and permits.

The SB emphasized that the caravan is a critical step in upholding the quality and legitimacy of social welfare services, ensuring that organizations receiving public trust and resources meet the set standards.

A total of 116 SWDAs received direct technical support throughout the duration of the caravan.  The National Capital Region (NCR) saw the highest engagement with 43 assisted agencies, followed by Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN) with 24 agencies, 20 agencies in Region IV-A (CALABARZON), 19 agencies in Region XI (Davao Region), and 10 agencies in Region III (Central Luzon).

Thus, the commitment of SWDAs to adhere to the regulatory requirements strengthen the social welfare sector’s integrity and effectiveness across the country. (PJE)