The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has introduced new efforts to improve social services, enhance efficiency, and strengthen family support.
These programs simplify processes for citizens while promoting safety and security for vulnerable groups.
Key programs include the Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS), the Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) System, and the Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Program.
These efforts serve families, children, and social welfare organizations, offering faster and more reliable assistance.
There is no cost for most of these services, though specific requirements must be met to access them.
1. DSWD HELPS
The Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS) is a digital one-stop-shop designed to make the application process for social welfare and development agencies (SWDAs) more convenient.
What It Does
- Allows online applications for registration, licensing, accreditation, and solicitation permits.
- Reduces paperwork and in-person visits, making the process hassle-free.
- Provides real-time updates on applications for better transparency.
Who Can Benefit
- Organizations providing social welfare services.
- Nonprofits and community groups needing accreditation or permits.
- Social workers seeking professional licensing.
Why It Matters
By cutting down bureaucratic delays, HELPS allows organizations to focus on providing assistance rather than dealing with lengthy paperwork.
This means approvals happen faster, and resources reach those in need without unnecessary hold-ups.
2. MTA System
The Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) System modernizes the application process for children’s travel clearances, prioritizing their safety and protection.
What It Does
- Moves the entire clearance process online, reducing the need for physical document submissions.
- Strengthens coordination between agencies to verify applications and prevent child exploitation.
- Provides a secure system to monitor and track clearances, helping prevent abuse or trafficking.
Who Needs It
- Minors under 18 years old traveling abroad without both parents.
- Legal guardians or relatives needing travel clearance for a child.
- Families with children participating in educational or cultural exchanges.
How It Helps Families
- Faster processing of applications means families can plan travel without long delays.
- Strengthens protection for minors traveling overseas.
- Reduces confusion by providing clear, standardized requirements.
3. Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Program: Strengthening Families
The Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Program is designed to assist families as they navigate life’s transitions.
It has three components:
- Bagong Pamilyang Pilipino
- Focuses on strengthening family values and community ties.
- Provides guidance and education on responsible parenting and child development.
- Bumabangon sa Gitna ng mga Hamon
- Supports families facing financial hardships or crises.
- Connects them to livelihood opportunities, financial aid, and community support networks.
- Maunlad at Matatag na Pamilya
- Helps families build financial stability and resilience.
- Offers access to training, scholarships, and community development programs.
Who Is Eligible?
- Low-income families in need of social, financial, or educational support.
- Households affected by economic struggles, calamities, or displacement.
- Parents looking for resources to support their children’s education and well-being.
Why It’s Important
By focusing on long-term family development, this program helps families achieve self-sufficiency and break cycles of poverty.
Other Key DSWD Program Updates 2025
Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)
- Currently supports over 4 million households.
- Provides financial aid for healthcare and education.
- Has helped over 1 million high school students graduate.
Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP)
- Assisted over 270,000 individuals in securing sustainable income.
- Provides skills training and job placement assistance.
Social Pension for Senior Citizens
- Distributed pensions to 4.28 million senior citizens in 2024.
- Helps cover daily essentials and medical expenses.
Disaster Response & Recovery
- Provided emergency aid to 7.4 million families in 2024.
- Assisted over 500,000 disaster victims with recovery support.
How to Access These Services
Where to Apply
- Visit the DSWD website for online applications and eligibility requirements.
- Contact the nearest DSWD field office for in-person assistance.
What You Need
- Each program has specific documentary requirements, such as proof of income, residency, or identification.
- Some services may require community assessment interviews.
Processing Time
- Many new systems, such as HELPS and MTA, now offer faster turnaround times compared to traditional methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a fee for processing permits through HELPS?
No, HELPS is designed as a free service for social welfare organizations.
However, specific accreditation requirements must be met.
- How long does it take to process a travel clearance for minors under the MTA System?
With the online system, processing times are significantly reduced, typically taking a few days if all requirements are complete.
- Can families already receiving aid from 4Ps still qualify for the Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Program?
Yes, the programs complement each other.
Families receiving 4Ps support may still access additional services under the new family program.
- How can individuals check the status of their applications for social services?
Applicants can track their status through the DSWD website or by visiting the nearest DSWD field office for assistance.
Video: LIVE: President Bongbong Marcos at the DSWD 74th anniversary (Feb… | GMA Integrated News – Replay
The video celebrates the 74th anniversary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, highlighting its commitment to building a resilient and inclusive society. It discusses programs like 4Ps and SLP that empower families and individuals, social pensions for senior citizens, disaster response efforts, and new initiatives for modernization and efficiency.
Conclusion
DSWD’s new efforts reflect a commitment to making social services more efficient, accessible, and secure for Filipino families.
By integrating digital solutions, strengthening family programs, and simplifying service delivery, these programs empower communities and provide much-needed support.