The Social Welfare and Development Learning Network (SWDL-Net) held its Quarterly Meeting on June 3, 2025, at Sophia’s Way Food Center, Tacloban City, bringing together key representatives from various agencies and organizations to reaffirm their commitment to collaborative learning and coordinated action in the field of social welfare and development.
The meeting produced several strategic agreements designed to solidify the network’s foundation, expand its reach, and enhance its operational impact:
- Institutionalizing Participation through Designated Focal Points
To ensure continuity, accountability, and active engagement in SWDL-Net activities, all member agencies agreed to issue a Special Order designating one (1) permanent and two (2) alternate representatives. This move aims to streamline communication, enhance institutional memory, and foster consistency in decision-making and activity implementation. - Expanding the Network through Strategic Invitations
To strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration, the group committed to reaching out to new potential partners including PHCCI, World Vision, SIKAT, Save the Children, and various Provincial Youth Development Offices (PYDOs). Formal invitation letters will be issued, accompanied by a response tracking system to monitor commitments and follow-through. This effort supports SWDL-Net’s vision of becoming a dynamic and inclusive learning network. - Formalization and Leadership: 2nd SWDL-Net Meeting in July
The next major step is the 2nd SWDL-Net Meeting, scheduled for July 25, 2025, at the DSWD Regional Operations Center (ROC) in Palo, Leyte. The agenda will include the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and the election of SWDL-Net officers, signifying a transition from planning to institutional governance. - Final Review and Approval of the MOU
Prior to the July meeting, all members will participate in the final review of the draft MOU, ensuring that it reflects shared priorities and expectations. The approved MOU will serve as the foundation for future joint activities, clearly outlining roles, commitments, and collaborative mechanisms. - Virtual Benchmarking for Cross-Regional Learning
A virtual benchmarking session with SWDL-Net counterparts from other regions will be organized to explore successful practices, identify innovations, and draw lessons that can be localized. A synthesis report will capture key insights, recommended adaptations, and potential areas for cross-regional collaboration.
These forward-looking agreements reaffirm SWDL-Net’s commitment to building a culture of shared learning, collaborative action, and knowledge-driven service delivery. By strengthening internal systems and embracing external partnerships, SWDL-Net is positioning itself as a catalyst for more responsive, inclusive, and impactful social welfare and development initiatives across Eastern Visayas.