Question & AnswerQ&A (LETTER OF INSTRUCTIONS NO. 559)
The main objective of the PAGLILINGKOD: BAGONG LIPUNAN program is to carry the message of change of the New Society and the development programs to the grassroots level, enabling rural people to benefit from technological improvements and establishing a direct link between the government and the people to improve the quality of life.
All officials and employees in the government service, whether in Career or Non-Career positions, including contractual or emergency personnel, employees in government-owned or controlled corporations, and all local government officials are required to render service in rural areas for at least fifteen (15) days within a calendar year.
The minimum service duration is at least fifteen (15) days, equivalent to two weeks, within a given calendar year on official time.
The program is coordinated by the Office of the President and the Civil Service Commission through a Sub-Cabinet Committee composed of Undersecretaries or officers of comparable rank from specified departments.
Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Health, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Education and Culture.
The Regional Secretariat is responsible for making an inventory of skills and assistance requirements, planning and coordinating field activities, submitting periodic reports to the National Secretariat, and performing other duties assigned by the National Secretariat.
The National Secretariat is headed by an Executive Director and a Deputy Executive Director, chosen by the Sub-Cabinet Committee from among themselves.
Barangay Captains coordinate the program at the barangay level, assisted by head teachers or development workers, and Chairman of the Kabataang Barangay, ensuring effective implementation within their communities.
The Department of Agriculture and its attached agencies, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Social Services and Development, Department of Health and its attached agencies (notably the Population Control Commission), Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Education and Culture.
Local government officials such as Governors, City Mayors, Municipal Mayors, and Barangay Captains are to give full support to the program and work out coordination systems at all levels for effective implementation.