In a strategic move to sharpen regulatory efficiency and modernize public service, the Standards Bureau (SB) held its Performance Review and Evaluation Workshop (PREW) from November 17 to 21, 2025 at the Madison Hotel 101+ Tower.

Led by Atty. Megan Therese Y. Manahan, the five-day intensive workshop served as a dual-purpose platform to critically assess the Bureau’s 2025 performance and a visionary planning session for Calendar Year 2026.

The workshop focused on deep-diving into the Bureau’s core competencies, aligning the Bureau staff with the broader commitments of the DSWD. By evaluating internal processes and addressing emerging regulatory challenges, the SB aims to provide a more agile and substantive response to the needs of its stakeholders. Atty. Manahan took a moment during the State of the Bureau’s Address to express her deep appreciation for the Bureau’s workforce. “To every dedicated Angel in Red Vests of the Standards Bureau, I just want to thank each and every one of you for your hard work,” she said. “It’s been a tough year, but you have been wonderful and  supportive to this administration’s goal of making government service better for the public.”

A cornerstone of the Bureau’s success this year was the official launch of the DSWD HELPS or Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System. This landmark initiative marks a definitive shift from manual to digital processing, drastically reducing waiting time and improving transparency.

Comparing the system to a growing child, Atty. Manahan praised the staff’s dedication to the project, “Thank you for loving and fighting for HELPS like you would do for your own child. Totoo, anak nga natin ‘yung HELPS. Lalago pa siya, gagaling pa, at mas magiging okay through constant love and care.”

To ensure sustained growth, the SB staff participated in a series of technical sessions designed to fortify the Bureau’s operational framework. These included a workshop on SWOT Analysis: Identifying internal strengths and external opportunities to mitigate risks; Registry of Stakeholders (ROS): Refining the database of partners to ensure targeted service delivery; Operational Risk Treatment Plan (ORTP): Developing protocols to handle potential regulatory bottlenecks; and 2026 Indicative Targets: Setting targets for the coming year to maintain the momentum of reform.

The SB PREW underscores the Bureau’s commitment to the directives of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Usec. Bragas, and Asec. Armas, ensuring that the DSWD remains a gold standard for efficient and effective regulatory services in the country. (PJE)