Legal Mandates and Administrative Background
- Cites Section 31, Chapter 5, Subtitle A, Title 1, Book V of the Administrative Code of 1987.
- Requires provisions for employee welfare in all government entities.
- Links child care services to improved employee performance and reduced absenteeism.
Scope and Coverage of Services
- Mandates all National Government Agencies and Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) to provide day care services.
- Target beneficiaries are children under five years old of employees without competent household help.
- Services may be provided within office premises or accessible locations acceptable to parents.
Objectives of the Day Care Services
- Ensure proper care and nutrition for physical fitness.
- Foster development of social, mental, and intellectual skills.
- Promote spiritual, socio-cultural, and nationalistic values.
- Provide substitute parenting and protection from neglect, abuse, and exploitation during work hours.
Designation and Responsibilities of the Lead Agency
- Designates the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) as the lead agency.
- Responsibilities include formulating implementing guidelines, disseminating such guidelines within one month, and providing technical assistance.
- Tasks DSWD with licensing, accreditation, and monitoring of day care services and workers.
Funding and Resource Mobilization
- Requires funding from the Gender and Development (GAD) funds, originating from the Employees' Suggestions and Incentives Awards System (ESIAS) funds.
- Encourages mobilization of resources from non-government, private, and international sources.
- Coordination with DSWD in materials development, facility improvement, and curriculum enrichment is mandated.
Effectivity
- The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon issuance on February 5, 1997.
- Signed by the President and the Executive Secretary.