THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Association of DSWD Social Workers (ADSWI) to ensure the effective execution of social work practice in the agency.
The MOU highlighted that DSWD, through the Social Welfare Institutional Development Bureau, will work in partnership with ADSWI for the professional growth and advocate the interest of social work profession through the formulation of plans and provisions of technical assistance to targeted local social welfare and development offices (LSWDOs) and other social welfare and development (SWD) partners.
ADSWI is a legal entity composed of Registered Social Workers (RSW) employed at the DSWD, whose primary objective is to participate in the formulation and implementation of policies, issues and concerns relevant to the practice of the social work profession.
The association also aimed to serve as a venue for information exchange, where social workers in the department can share practices, stories and experiences that can be used as a tool or strategy in addressing other issues and concerns that affect social workers as public servants.
“Social workers continue to enhance the overall well-being and help meet the basic and complex needs of communities around the country. This type of work needs a lot of commitment, patience and compassion to those who are needy,” DSWD Secretary Rolando Joselito Bautista said.
Bautista also thanked the members of ADSWI for partnering with the department to ensure the development of projects and activities for effective social work practice.
ADSWI National President Ricky Bunao assured that their organization will continue to support DSWD’s endeavors and advocacies.
“Social workers of DSWD will be an active partner of the department and the Philippine government in promoting policies, development, and implementing various programs and services for the empowerment of the poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged sectors as well as in advocating sustainable development and long-lasting peace throughout the country,” Bunao said.