Posted on by Nicole Kasandra Lipawen

With its commitment to service excellence, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1 (DSWD FO 1) – Ilocos Region advocates for faster, and more accessible social services. This is being emphasized in the celebration of  Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month in line with this year’s theme, “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in a Bagong Pilipinas,” urges government agencies to adopt streamlined, paperless, and client-focused processes.

During the agency’s kick-off celebration at the Central Office, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian underscored in his message the Department and the whole government’s push for regulatory efficiency, reducing red tape, and enhancing public service delivery.

“Our thrust is to deliver services that exceed expectations and not mere policy compliance, enabling the public to access support with dignity and ease,” Gatchalian emphasized.

The DSWD FO 1 on the other hand, introduced strategies and innovations to streamline processes and accelerate digital transformation to comply with the Zero Contact Policy during its regional kick-off. Among these innovations are the FO’s Human Resource Management Division (HRMDD) online job application, and Interactive Kiosk.

The introduction and use of these innovations has led to significant breakthroughs in service delivery of the FO. The HRMDD’s  online job application system has streamlined the hiring process from 60 working days to just 28 to 40 working days—from the posting of vacancies to appointment of new staff. 

The Interactive Kiosk, which is accessible online, has provided the public with easy access to the Citizen’s Charter—a comprehensive guide to the agency’s procedures, timelines, and applicable fees. The kiosk also features tools for submitting feedback, a directory of the Field Office’s Offices, Divisions, Sections, and Units (ODSUs), and infographics detailing the Department’s programs and services. Additionally, DSWD FO 1 is in the process of developing a Queuing System to establish a more structured and efficient approach in  providing financial assistance to walk-in clients.

DSWD FO 1 conducts a brief orientation on Ease of Doing Business for its employees during the Monday Program.

Echoing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s call during the 2025 Inaugural Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month to replace “red tape with a red carpet” in government service, the DSWD FO 1 continues to put people first. The Department remains committed not only during EODB Month but throughout the year by simplifying procedures, eliminating bureaucratic barriers, and reinforcing its dedication to transparency, efficiency, and accountability. (by: Nicole Kasandra A. Lipawen, Information Officer II