In a move to strengthen partnerships with the National Area-Based Standard Network (ABSNet), Undersecretary Denise Florence Bernos-Bragas, MD, RSW of the Regulatory Services, and Institutional Development Group (RSIDG) spearheaded the consultation meeting on regulatory guidelines with the National ABSNet Officers held at the RSIDG Conference Room, DSWD Central Office in Quezon City on May 11, 2026 (Monday).

The consultation meeting served as a platform for open dialogue, enabling the gathering of comments and recommendations from ABSNet Officers on both the Social Welfare and Development Agencies Regulation Act (SWDA Bill) and the DSWD Memorandum Circular No. 09, Series of 2026 or the “Pilot Implementation Guidelines for the Cost of Care Subsidy through Private Residential Social Work Agencies (SWAs).”

Usec. Bragas emphasized, “Through strengthening the regulatory environment of the DSWD today, we are securing a more transparent, efficient, and dignified social welfare landscape for tomorrow.”

She highlighted that the guidelines and policies will boost the partnership and collaboration between the Department, the ABSNet, and SWDAs to better protect the beneficiaries.

“Let us remember that behind every process, procedure and every subsidy is a child, a youth, a woman, an elderly person, or a person with a disability who deserves a home that offers more than just shelter, but they deserve quality, compassionate, and protective care.”

Meanwhile, other officials joining the meeting were Assistant Secretary for RSIDG Janet P. Armas, CESO IV; Standards Bureau Director IV, Atty. Megan Therese Y. Manahan; National ABSNet Chairperson Fr. Arnold Abelardo, CMF; Vice-Chairperson for Luzon, Ms. Mylene Lagman; and Secretary, Ms. April P. Castillo. (MGCBA)