Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 123)
The Ministry of Social Services and Development is renamed as the Ministry of Social Welfare and Development.
The State is committed to the care, protection, and rehabilitation of the segment of the population which is disadvantaged and needs social welfare assistance and social work intervention to restore normal functioning and community participation.
The objectives include caring for, protecting and rehabilitating the handicapped and socially disabled; providing integrated welfare services; arresting deterioration of dehumanizing conditions; and advocating for social welfare policies and measures.
The Minister of Social Welfare and Development, appointed by the President, has supervision and control over the Ministry.
Functions include formulating and implementing social welfare programs, adopting policies, supporting NGOs, establishing facilities, accrediting institutions, conducting research, and deputizing law enforcement and local government units among others.
It consists of the Ministry Proper (Office of the Minister and Deputies) and Services, as well as Bureaus, Regional Offices, Provincial/City Offices, and Municipal/District Offices.
Regional Offices provide efficient social welfare services, establish welfare facilities, ensure implementation of laws and policies, coordinate with other agencies, and conduct planning and studies within their regions.
They can establish vocational rehabilitation centers, reception and study centers, rehabilitation centers for youth offenders, day care centers, homes for aged and unwed mothers, drug abuse centers, and other necessary facilities for the socially disadvantaged.
They are considered separated from service and entitled to retirement benefits or a separation pay equivalent to one month basic salary for each year of service, up to 12 months' salary.
Yes, social welfare services by the Ministry are without prejudice to similar efforts by local government units or private agencies; the Ministry shall promote and assist such efforts.
The Ministry may regulate fund drives, public solicitations, and donations for charitable or welfare purposes.
Officers and employees shall continue to perform their duties and receive salaries in a hold-over capacity unless they are separated pursuant to other relevant orders or constitutional provisions.
No court or administrative body shall issue such a writ or order to enjoin separation or replacement under this Executive Order.
The Population Commission continues as the population planning and coordinating agency attached to the Ministry.