The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the University of the Philippines (UP) formalized a strategic partnership on 2 February 2026 at the DSWD Central Office Auditorium through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen learning, research, and knowledge-building initiatives in support of social development and protection programs. The event was organized by the DSWD Academy, headed by Director Justin Caesar Anthony D. Batocabe, highlighting the Academy’s role in fostering workforce learning and institutional development within the Department.
The MOU was signed by DSWD Secretary Rexlon T. Gatchalian and UP President Angelo A. Jimenez, reaffirming the shared commitment of both institutions to pursue systems-based and evidence-informed approaches in addressing the needs of poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged sectors.
Also present during the signing were DSWD Undersecretary Denise FB Bernos-Bragas, MD, RSW; Assistant Secretary Janet Armas; UP Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Lorraine Pe Symaco; UP Vice Presidents; and other officials from both institutions.
Under the partnership, DSWD and UP will explore collaboration in the co-development and delivery of learning programs and training courses, strengthening workforce and institutional capacities through blended and distance learning approaches, and joint knowledge management and research initiatives. The agreement also opens opportunities for microcredentialing, continuing education, and field-based learning to further link theory, research, and social welfare practice
Secretary Rexlon T. Gatchalian highlighted the mutually beneficial nature of the partnership between DSWD and UP, emphasizing that the collaboration is not one-sided. He noted that while the Department benefits from the University’s expertise, UP likewise may gain from the Department’s field-based insights. For one, the Secretary pointed out that the “DSWD can serve as a living laboratory for social work and social development, providing real-time perspectives, on-the-ground stories, and contextual understanding that are not yet captured in textbooks”.
The signing of the MOU marks a significant step toward a deeper, collaborative engagement between DSWD and UP, reinforcing their shared responsibility to strengthen social protection, advance evidence-based programs, and cultivate a new generation of competent and responsive social welfare professionals.