SDRC Study on DSWD Case Management Systems Featured in 2023 Research Forum
The study “Comprehensive Mapping, Assessment and Enrichment of the DSWD Case Management Systems and Practices in the Philippines” was selected as the featured external study completed in 2022 during the Department of Social Welfare and Development 2023 Research Forum, held on June 30, 2023 at the DSWD Auditorium. The study was presented by DLSU Social Development Research Center research fellow and Department of Psychology associate professor Dr. Homer Yabut.
The research mainly intended to review and conduct an in-depth mapping and analysis of the DSWD case management system and its processes and methodologies; and map and identify the strengths, structural gaps, challenges and opportunities of the case management systems viz-a-viz the social welfare programs and services implementation, with a particular focus on child protection. Among the key findings were that case management processes were being implemented to varying degrees across LGUs; there were varied levels of competence and experience among social workers and the social service workforce, impacting the ability to provide standardized services across the country; and the implementation of an integrated electronic case management system was seen as being a logical next phase.
Reactors to the presentation were Council for the Welfare of Children Planning Officer Ms. Aiza Cabrera, who recommended a more systematic and holistic approach to institutional arrangements; strengthening of inter-agency collaboration to address uncoordinated approaches in responding to issues; and the institutionalization of communities of practice, to assure advocacy for the development of child-sensitive policies; and Mr. Ronald E. Castro, OIC-Division Chief Social Services Delivery and Management Division of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, who recommended that UNICEF or other development partners continue supporting similar studies and look into ways to link the DSWD system and procedures to other agencies such as the Philippine National Police and judicial and medical agencies; that the outcome and impact of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System be looked into; and that the Department’s service delivery could be strengthened by establishing family service centers within barangays.
The blended (online and onsite) research forum, conducted by the DSWD Policy Development and Planning Bureau’s Research and Evaluation Division, had as this year’s theme “Advancing Social Protection System: Innovations, Challenges and Opportunities.” It was attended by representatives from the DSWD and nearby Field Offices (NCR and IV-A), NGAs, NGOs, LGUs and the academe.
