Revised Guidelines in the Implementation of Executive Order No. 70, Series of 2018

March 20, 2020

DSWD MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 003-20

SUBJECT : Revised Guidelines in the Implementation of Executive Order No. 70, Series of 2018

 

I. Rationale

The current government administration is relentless in its pursuit to attain a just and lasting peace in the country. One of the priorities in the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 is the achievement of an inclusive and sustainable peace through intensified development and other peace-building initiatives in conflict-affected and -vulnerable communities. Further, the issuance of Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70), s. 2018 seeks to institutionalize the Whole-of-Nation Approach to pave the way for collective participation and action in harmonizing government development efforts and services to support, facilitate and pursue the country's peace agenda.

To ensure the efficient and effective implementation of the Whole-of-Nation Approach, a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) was created and a National Peace Framework was formulated and adopted by the member agencies. The National Peace Framework serves as the strategic document of the Philippine Government to ensure that all initiatives on attaining inclusive and sustainable peace are mainstreamed in the regular plans and programs of national government agencies and local government units in conflict-affected areas and -vulnerable communities.

The government calls for participation in attaining a just, comprehensive, and long-lasting peace in the country under the rule of law, and convergence efforts in providing a complete package of assistance to former rebels and their families, as well as individuals and communities in conflict-affected and -vulnerable areas. Hence, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), as one of the members of the NTF-ELCAC, shall guarantee the implementation of social welfare and development programs and services towards addressing the various risks and vulnerabilities contributing to insurgency.

II. Legal Basis

1. Executive Order No. 70, series of 2018, "Institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation Approach in Attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, Creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and Directing the Adoption of a National Peace Framework."

The National Peace Framework defines and clusters interventions into 12 Government Lines of Effort. Along with this, the DSWD plays an active role directly contributing to the following six (6) Clusters/Lines of Effort (LOEs):

• Local Government Empowerment — Ensure that the LGUs, local-based institutions, and other stakeholders are sustainably taking the lead in peace building efforts at the local level

• Strategic Communication — Connect communication gaps between and among government communication platform and conduct strategic communications efforts to effectively disseminate information on government programs and counter the national propaganda of the CTG, while creating external mechanisms to facilitate public engagement and policy support

• Basic Services — Provide responsive delivery of basic services in order to contribute in the establishment of conflict-resilient, sustainable, and economically developed communities, through the provision of statutory and specialized programs to conflict-affected individuals, families and communities

• Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment — Establish decisive and institutionalized, as well as responsive measures, which would significantly address poverty affectation among marginalized communities and basic sectors, and also to balance the equitable resource distribution and create dynamic, economic, livelihood, and income opportunities with specific emphasis on poverty alleviation package and sustainable economic interventions for basic sectors

• E-CLIP and Amnesty Program — Supervise the Reintegration Efforts for Former Rebels from the CPP-NPA-NDF, as well as their immediate family members, and support the immediate needs of the eligible beneficiaries in the reintegration process

• Sectoral Unification, Capacity Building and Empowerment — Ensure agency implementation in contribution to comprehensive social reform programs and economic development interventions for each priority sector

On the other hand, the Department will provide support to the other Lines of Effort, to wit: (i) Legal Cooperation; (ii) Situational Awareness; (iii) Infrastructure and Resource Management; (iv) International Engagement; (v) Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support; and (vi) Local Peace Engagement.

2. RA 7610, "An Act Providing for Stronger Deterrence and Special Protection against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination, and for Other Purposes" defines living in a community where there is armed conflict or being attested by armed conflict-related activities as one of the circumstances which gravely threaten or endanger the survival and normal development of children.

3. R.A. No. 11188, "An Act Providing for the Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict and Providing Penalties for Violations Thereof" considers as paramount the best interests of children, and treats all children involved in, affected by or displaced by armed conflict as victim-survivors.

4. Office of the President Administrative Order No. 10, series of 2018, "Centralizing all Government Efforts for the Reintegration of Former Rebels and Creating for the Purpose an Inter-Agency Task Force" enhances the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (hereinafter, "E-CLIP"), and creates Task Force Balik-Loob to centralize all efforts to reintegrate FRS.

5. DSWD Administrative Order 15, series of 2018 amends DSWD GAD Mainstreaming Guidelines (DSWD AO 5, s. 2012) to incorporate as an additional objective women's needs and concerns in pre-, during and post-conflict-affected areas and to be integrated in the annual GAD Plan and Budget (GPB) and GAD Accomplishment Report (GAD ARs) of the agency.

III. Objectives

General Objective:

To provide clear guidance to different OBSUs in the Central Office and the Field Offices in the implementation of social welfare and development programs and projects towards the achievement of the objectives of EO 70, s. 2018.

Specific Objectives:

1. To define the roles and tasks of responsible offices/bureaus/services/units at the Central Office and Field Offices for efficient and effective collaboration in the Department for the implementation of DSWD programs in conflict-affected areas and -vulnerable communities;

2. To ensure convergence of efforts at all levels within the Department in the delivery of programs and services in conflict-affected areas and -vulnerable communities, in close coordination with external agencies mandated under EO 70; and

3. To provide clear, responsive and seamless process in the delivery of programs and services to referred former rebels and their families through defined procedures, requirements, and eligibilities.

IV. Coverage

A. Areas

This Unified Guidelines shall cover the implementation of DSWD programs and services in all conflict-affected and -vulnerable areas of the country.

B. Beneficiaries

This Guidelines cover the following:

1. Former rebels (FRs) who were members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New People's Army (NPA), and the National Democratic Front (NDF), collectively known as the CPP-NPA-NDF (CNN), and their families;

2. The Militia ng Bayan (MB) and their families; and

3. Individuals and families in conflict-affected and -vulnerable communities.

In the case of Former Rebels (FRs) and their families, only those who join Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) before December 31, 2018 and all who surfaced from July 1, 2016, shall be covered by this Guidelines. Only FRs and their families who are endorsed by the E-CLIP Committee of LGUs shall be provided with assistance within the parameters of the DSWD's programs and services.

In the case of individuals and their families who do not satisfy the collatilla in paragraph No. 2, they can be provided with various assistance of the Department subject to compliance to documentary requirements of the existing guidelines of the regular programs and services.

V. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Conflict-affected and -vulnerable areas (CVAs) — identified by the presence of armed conflict, widespread violence or other risks of harm to people or limited access to basic services and/or lack of good governance which may foster insurgency. These areas are identified by the respective Regional Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) based on information received from the security sector, and are potential target areas for social welfare services from DSWD, subject to assessment.

2. Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) — expanded version of the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) which provides a complete package of assistance to former rebels, as well as, their immediate family members.

3. E-CLIP Committee — ensures convergent efforts, coordinates and monitors the E-CLIP implementation in the Province/Highly Urbanized City (HUC). It is chaired by the Provincial Governor/HUC Mayor and co-chaired by the AFP Commanding Officer of the Brigade; composed of representatives from the Local Social Welfare and Development Officer (LSWDO), DILG Provincial/Highly Urbanized City Office, PNP, Civil Society Organization (CSO), and a member of the Provincial/HUC Peace and Order Council.

4. EO 70 Regional Focal Person (EO 70 RFP) — a registered social worker designated as the overall in-charge of all issues, documents and files pertaining to EO 70 in the DSWD Field Offices, including provision of technical assistance and resource augmentation (TARA) pertaining to case management of LGU-referred Former Rebels. He or she shall also perform functions further detailed in the General Policies and Instructions of this AO.

5. EO 70 National Program Focal Person (EO 70 N-PFP) — refers to the person in-charge of all issues, documents and files pertaining to EO 70 per concerned program covered under this Guidelines at the DSWD Central Office level.

6. Former Rebels (FRs) — refers to the members of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New People's Army (NPA), and the National Democratic Front (NDF) Collectively known as the CPP-NPA-NDF (CNN), and the Militia ng Bayan (MB), who voluntarily abandoned the armed struggle and opted to become productive members of society.

7. Former Rebel Information System (FRIS) — a user-friendly, secure system that allows efficient and standardized collection, verification, storage, analysis and reporting of data on the profile of FRs and their family members, and other relevant information such as the government programs they are enrolled in and legal impediments, If any.

8. Local Social Welfare and Development Officer (LSWDO) — refers to social welfare and development officers at the Municipal, City and Provincial levels, who formulate and carry out measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate facilities relative to social welfare and development services as provided for under Republic Act No. 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991.

9. Militia ng Bayan — refers to individuals who have been indoctrinated and may or may not be directly involved in violent armed struggle but, when organized, can provide mass support to the "revolutionary movement" of the CPP/NPA/NDF. These organized individuals form part of the mass-base that serves as revolutionary enforcement in the barrio and serves as a pool of recruits for fighters. (IRR of AO No. 10, s. 2018)

10. National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (NAPWPS) — the plan that adheres to the tenets enshrined in the Philippine Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710) in promoting and protecting women's rights, particularly in conflict situations.

11. National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) — a Task Force under the Office of the President, created under EO 70, series of 2018, which will ensure the efficient and effective implementation of the Whole-of-Nation Approach.

12. Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) — the regional counterpart of the NTF-ELCAC which leads the formulation and implementation of regional plans in coordination with relevant government agencies, LGUs, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders, and ensures inter-agency convergence in implementation of programs and services in conflict-affected and -vulnerable communities. It is chaired by the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) and composed of Joint Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) and Regional Development Council (RDC) officers and members.

13. Reintegration — refers to a process where the FR voluntarily disarms and undergoes mainstreaming into a civilian and productive life, and the government undertakes measures to assist the FR in the transition and attend to the FR's socio-economic well-being, as well as his/her security and safety, psycho-social and legal concerns (DND-DILG JMC No. 2018-1).

14. Social Case Management — refers to a process of providing services whereby a professional social worker assesses the needs of the client and the client's family, when appropriate, and arranges, coordinates, monitors, evaluates, and advocates for a package of multiple services to meet the specific client's complex needs (DSWD AO No. 14, series of 2012).

15. Task Force Balik-Loob — an inter-agency task force created under AO 10, series of 2018 for the reintegration of FRs composed of representatives, with a rank not lower than Undersecretary from the DND, DILG, OPAPP, Office of the President (OP), and the National Housing Authority (NHA). The Task Force shall be chaired by the DND representative, who may invite other government agencies or instrumentalities to the Task Force, as the DND may deem necessary.

16. Whole-of-Nation Approach — a government mechanism for the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace which addresses the root causes of insurgencies, internal disturbances and tensions, and other armed conflicts and threats by prioritizing and harmonizing the delivery of basic services and social development packages in conflict-affected areas and -vulnerable communities, facilitate societal inclusivity, and ensure active participation of all sectors of society in the pursuit of the country's peace agenda.

VI. Policy Guidelines

1. This Guidelines shall define specific procedures, requirements and eligibilities in providing DSWD programs and services to the target beneficiaries, to expedite service delivery taking into consideration their profile and the peculiarities of their circumstances, with focus on, but not limited to the following:

• Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)

• Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP)

• Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS)

2. DSWD takes part in the whole-of-nation approach institutionalized by EO 70, s. 2018 to address the root causes of communist armed conflict such as poverty social inequality and lack of inclusivity, among others. This Guidelines covers only the tasks and roles of the Department in the attainment of the goals of EO 70. Inter-agency efforts or those beyond the mandate of DSWD are covered by guidelines issued by other concerned agencies or by the Inter-Agency Task Force concerned.

3. DSWD joins other government agencies in the provision of a menu of interventions, or the Government Lines of Effort, to end local communist armed conflict, pursuant to EO 70, s. 2018. In connection with this, the Department is committed to contribute to the following outcomes:

3.1. All Former Rebels, from the time they surrender to reintegration in society, improved their level of well-being

3.2. Individuals in conflict-affected and -vulnerable communities have equitable access to social protection interventions

3.3. Conflict-affected and -vulnerable communities are resilient against communist exploitation

 To attain the said outcomes, DSWD shall deliver these outputs:

• Provide social welfare and development interventions to all former rebels;

• Implement programs that guarantee access to social welfare and development interventions to individuals in conflict-affected and -vulnerable communities;

• Strengthen capacities as an institution as well as its intermediaries to improve service delivery along social welfare and development;

• Ensure participation of conflict-affected and -vulnerable communities on all matters that affect them.

DSWD E.O. 70 Framework

4. DSWD shall adopt a confidentiality policy, as follows:

4.1. The validated list of FRs shall be handled by all concerned staff with utmost confidentiality.

4.2. A Non-Disclosure and Confidentiality Agreement (Annex A) shall be signed by all EO 70 concerned and involved officials, employees and focal persons to ensure data privacy of beneficiaries. In case the concerned office, bureau or service has an existing Data Privacy Policy (DPP), the NDA shall be between the DSWD and the Head of Office, while the DPP may be used between the Head of Office and the concerned program personnel.

4.3. Interventions provided will be recorded for documentation purposes. However, FRs and their families served by the programs shall not be categorized as such in the program's existing database, for confidentiality purposes. Actual list/names of beneficiaries and updates shall be kept confidential by the EO 70 Regional and Program Focal Persons in accordance with the Department's Policy as well as in compliance with the provisions of the Data Privacy Act. In the same manner, names of individuals and families served in conflict-affected and -vulnerable areas shall not be tagged under the EO 70 Program but shall be categorized with utmost confidentiality.

4.4. The EO 70 National and Regional Focal Persons shall utilize the FR-IS for updating on the progress of interventions or any other related information on referred FRs, once it is available. Levels of access, features and data requirements shall be defined in the Operations and Privacy Manual/Handbook.

4.5. EO 70 Focal Persons shall make use of the existing databases of the concerned programs while the FR-IS is not yet operational. Computers/laptops and other such gadgets to be used for EO 70 data should be officially issued by the DSWD and should only be used within authorized work areas.

5. DSWD shall implement programs and projects in close coordination with the LSWDO, with the LSWDO as the case manager. The LSWDO shall take the lead in the delivery of interventions to the target beneficiaries, while the DSWD shall provide technical assistance and resource augmentation as deemed necessary.

6. DSWD shall provide assistance to FRs only upon endorsement by the E-CLIP Committee to the DSWD Field Office concerned, for further provision of social welfare and development interventions over and above those already initially provided by the LGU. However, DSWD shall directly manage cases of FR women and children who are under the care of DSWD-managed Residential Care Facilities.

7. In the delivery of programs along EO 70, it is imperative to support the Department's efforts on gender mainstreaming. Hence, disaggregation of data by sex, age, type of disabilities, ethnicity, if solo parent as applicable as well as gender responsiveness of programs is deemed necessary.

8. DSWD considers children in situations of armed conflict as victim-survivors and shall be provided with special protection from all forms of abuse and violence pursuant to R.A. No. 11188 and other existing Child Protection laws safeguarding the rights of children.

VII. Implementing Procedures

A. Pre-Implementation Stage

The pre-implementation stage covers all necessary preparatory activities, such as development of policies and operational guidelines, establishment of multi-level internal/external mechanisms (such as national or regional TWG), capacity-building activities for the personnel handling the programs, among others.

1. A Technical Working Group (TWG) shall be created at the DSWD Central Office for the purpose of implementing EO 70. DSWD Field Offices may create a Regional TWG for the same purpose, as deemed necessary. The TWG shall have the following composition and functions:

 Composition:

 

Position	Central Office TWG	Regional Office TWG
Chair	Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace	Division Chief level or higher designated by the Regional Director
Vice-Chair	Assistant Secretary for OSEC Concerns	Division Chief level designated by the Regional Director
Members	Representatives from all Offices, Bureaus and Services in the Central Office	The EO 70 Regional Focal Person and the Program Focal Persons, representatives from the Divisions and Units in the FO, and Social Welfare and Development (SWAD) Team Provincial Action Team Leaders, as applicable.

 

 Functions:

o Develop DSWD's national and regional implementation Plan (IMPLAN) in line with the EO 70 Cluster and Sub-Cluster IMPLAN align to DSWD EO 70 framework and outcome;

o Actively participate in EO 70-related meetings, events and consultations;

o Coordinate and collaborate with the various DSWD TWGs, such as GAD TWG, NAPWPS TWG, PAMANA TWG, et al. to ensure that the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of DSWD programs and services are gender responsive and IP/culture sensitive;

o Ensure responsiveness and harmonization of different DSWD initiatives to attain the objectives of EO 70, s. 2018;

o Provide technical assistance and resource augmentation in areas of strategic importance; and,

o Set up mechanisms to ensure the abidance to confidentiality of information of beneficiaries.

2. To ensure the smooth transition and provision of services within the service delivery network, that is, from the LSWDO as case managers to the DSWD Field Office and/or vice versa, an EO 70 Regional Focal Person (RFP) shall be designated to perform the following functions relative to the DSWD implementation of EO 70:

o Handle all files and documents pertaining to the DSWD implementation of EO 70;

o Mobilize concerned EO 70 Regional Program Focal Persons (RFPs) to ensure that identified programs will be delivered to the target beneficiaries;

o Provide technical assistance and resource augmentation (TARA) to LSWDOs focused on, but not limited to, case management of LGU-referred Former Rebels;

o Provide TARA to other stakeholders in the field;

o Coordinate cases of referred FRs for interventions, specifically:

• Assessing the level of well-being of FRs using Social Welfare and Development Indicators (upon receipt of referrals and after one year of service delivery);

• Referring eligible beneficiaries to specific DSWD programs and services;

• Monitoring the progress of services provided.

o Recommend and facilitate the conduct of case conference with the LSWDO to discuss the progress of the case as well as recommendations for reintegration in the community.

o Provide updates or progress report of the referred FRs to the LSWDO during case conferences and other feed backing channels, e.g., format communication.

o Recommend the termination of service, at the DSWD level, for FRs who have achieved self-sufficiency level based on the results of the FR assessment tool, and ensure that the LSWDO is capacitated to provide aftercare for these FRs.

3. Names of all Field Office EO 70 Focal Persons, as well as members of the EO 70 TWG, if applicable, shall be submitted to the Office of the Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace (OUISP). The OUISP shall be immediately informed of any changes in the list of Focal Persons or in the membership of the TWG.

B. Implementation Stage

In the implementation of this program, the LSWDO takes a central role in the entire reintegration process of the former rebels and their families through the provision of case management.

The DSWD shall implement EO 70 through two (2) tracks. The first track focuses on providing assistance to former rebels as they reintegrate into the community, and the second track addresses risks and vulnerabilities to build community resiliency by addressing risks and vulnerabilities by ensuring the delivery of basic services, strengthening the government mechanisms and processes, among others.

1. First Track: Provision of Assistance to Former Rebels

1.1. The FR signifies his/her intention to surface to any receiving unit, which may include the police, military personnel, local government officials, traditional leaders, religious leaders, community leaders, civil society organizations or non-government organizations. The receiving unit then endorses the FR to the LSWDO.

1.2. The LSWDO validates the name of the FR to ascertain if he/she is a beneficiary of a previous government program, and endorses the FR to a halfway house or other available facilities. The name of the FR is also submitted to the Joint AFP-PNP Intelligence Committee (JAPIC) for certification.

1.3. The JAPIC submits the certification to the E-CLIP Committee, which consequently endorses the same to the LSWDO. Once the identity of the FR is validated, the LSWDO then facilitates the provision of social protection services (e.g., medical check-up, PhilHealth enrolment, counseling services).

1.4. The E-CLIP Committee also endorses the names of FRs to the nearest DSWD Field Office concerned for further provision of social Welfare and development interventions. The endorsement shall be accompanied by the EO 70 Referral Form (Annex B) with attached Social Case Study Report or Case Summary Report, duly signed by the Local Social Welfare and Development Officer (LSWDO). Only FRs whose names are contained in the validated list endorsed by the E-CLIP Committee shall be provided with interventions.

1.5. Once received by the DSWD Field Office, the case shall be given to the EO 70 Regional Focal Person. Upon assessment and/or validation of the case, appropriate interventions shall be provided by the different EO 70 Program Focal Person post referral of, and in close coordination with, the EO 70 Regional Focal Person.

1.6. The EO 70 Regional Focal Person shall submit the list to the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, National Household Targeting Office as well as other existing databases requiring name matching, e.g., Social Pension. This is being done to name match and check if the FRs and their families are already included in the Listahanan Database or are being served in the 4Ps or other programs of the DSWD. In abidance to Section VI.1 of this Guidelines, FRs and their families shall be given due priority in the name matching. The results of name matching shall be provided to the Regional Office, attention to the EO 70 Regional Focal Person copy furnished to the EO 70 Program Focal Persons in the Field Offices.

1.7. The list submitted by the EO 70 Regional Focal Person to the National Household Targeting Office or other National Program Management Offices with existing databases requiring name matching shall include a transmittal from the DSWD Field Office concerned stating that the submitted names have been endorsed by the E-CLIP Committee.

1.8. While waiting for the result of name matching with the respective program database, the EO 70 Regional Focal Person shall review the Referral Form (Annex C) with attached Social Case Study Report or Case Summary Report, whichever is applicable, duly signed by the Local Social Welfare and Development Officer (LSWDO) to properly address the immediate needs of the identified beneficiaries. Per need-based assessment of the EO 70 Regional Focal Person, the FR may be referred to the following immediate interventions:

1.8.1. Temporary Shelter. FR women and children who could not be accommodated in LGU/NGO-run facilities shall be temporarily placed under the care of DSWD-managed residential care facilities and provided with interventions such as debriefing while preparing them and their families for reintegration;

1.8.2. Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation. Similarly, limited financial assistance for the education of children, medical needs, burial assistance, and food may be availed by the FRs.

1.9. Simultaneous with the provision of assistance to address the immediate needs of the FRs, the EO 70 Regional Focal Person shall coordinate with the LSWDO, who shall administer an FR assessment tool for non-Pantawid beneficiaries with assistance from DSWD personnel as needed. For Pantawid beneficiaries, the Social Welfare and Development Indicators (SWDI) shall suffice.

1.10 The data from the SWDI/FR assessment tool shall serve as the baseline for the well-being of FRs. The same data shall also be used by the EO 70 Regional Focal Person to coordinate within the Field Office for provision of programs and services to the FRs and their families, which may include programs stipulated under Section VI.1. of this AO, and those over and above the said programs, such as:

1.10.1. Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons — a comprehensive program that ensures adequate recovery and reintegration services provided to trafficked persons. Utilizing a multi-sectoral approach, it delivers a complete package of services that will enhance the psychosocial and economic needs of the clients.

1.10.2. Supplementary Feeding Program — provision of food in addition to the regular meals to currently enrolled Day Care Children/Supervised Neighborhood Play.

1.10.3. Social Pension — the provision of a monthly stipend amounting to P500 to augment the daily subsistence and other medical needs of indigent senior citizens.

1.10.4. Auxiliary Services for the Elderly and Persons with Disability — practical support in the form of assistance for physical restoration, self and social enhancement service, after care and follow-up service, day care service, family care services, substitute family care and job search services.

1.11. The PR assessment tool/SWDI shall be used to track the progress of the level of well-being of the FRs, and to ultimately recommend termination of services to the FR at the DSWD level.

1.12. Other programs and services that may be provided to FRs per assessment of the LSWDO in coordination with the EO 70 Regional Focal Person, but are beyond the mandate of DSWD, shall be coordinated to the RTF-ELCAC by the LSWDO using the referral form (Annex B).

1.13. For the detailed flowchart in providing services to the Former Rebels and their families, please see Annex D.

2. Criteria for the First Track

 The eligibility or requirements of FRs and their families in the programs enumerated under Section VI.1 of this Guidelines shall be in consonance with existing laws and policies, to wit:

 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program

• To be eligible, FRs must have a JAPIC Certification and must be endorsed by the E-CLIP Committees of LGUs

• FRs and their families must be included in the Listahanan as the standardized targeting system or until a new standardized targeting system is adopted by the government, pursuant to Rule V. Selection of Qualified Households and Criteria for Eligibility stipulated in the IRR of Republic Act No. 11310 (The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program Act)

• The family has to have at least one (1) child aged 0-18 years old, or has a pregnant member at the time of registration

• FRs and their families must be willing and committed to comply with the program conditionalities under RA No. 11310 and its IRR

• Families already enrolled in the Pantawid may no longer be enrolled as a new beneficiary. However, those who have inactive status may be reactivated and updated especially if there are additional/new family members who are eligible in the program who need to be included/added.

 Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation

• The provision of AICS services is pursuant to DSWD MC No. 11, s. 2019 (Revised Guidelines on the Implementation of Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation).

• FRs and their families must be endorsed by the E-CLIP Committees of LGUs.

• FRs must present their JAPIC Certification with picture to avail of the AICS. In addition, taking into consideration the peculiarities of their circumstances, documentary requirements for assistance indicated in DSWD MC No. 11, s. 2019 may be modified for FRs, per assessment of the social workers concerned.

• The provision of financial and material assistance to FRs and their families shall be based on the assessment and recommendation of the LSWDO and the Department's social workers, duly approved by its authorized officials.

• The types and rates of assistance for FRs shall be based on the parameters indicated in DSWD MC No. 11, s. 2019 and its subsequent amendments, if any.

 Sustainable Livelihood Program

• Eligible FRs may be provided with Livelihood Settlement Grants (LSG) amounting to a maximum of Twenty Thousand Pesos (P20,000.00) each.

• The LSG will be provided on a per family basis with one or more Former Rebels who are at least 18 years old and with E-CLIP endorsement. In case the FR representing the family is 16-17 years, a consent from the legal guardians or parents must be submitted.

• Only FRs that have JAPIC Certification, were endorsed by the E-CLIP Committee, passed the above eligibility criteria and successfully underwent the processes as stipulated in Annex G of this guidelines may be provided with LSG.

• FRs who are not eligible to Pantawid due to the absence of 0-18 years old children or pregnant members may be emitted to SLP.

• Individuals or families that are in the conflict-vulnerable and/or affected areas may be provided with SLP assistance subject to eligibility assessment and availability of funds. The barangays or municipalities must be endorsed by the concerned RTF-ELCAC or the NTF-ELCAC prior to SLP's conduct of activities.

3. Second Track: Community Resiliency Program

3.1. DSWD Field Offices shall coordinate with the Regional Task Force and the LGU concerned for the implementation of programs and projects in the CVAs.

3.2. Programs that shall be implemented in CVAs as needed are as follows:

• Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Program

• Kalahi-CIDSS NCDDP

• Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP)

• Protective Service

• Disaster Risk Response and Rehabilitation

• Assistance to Communities in Need

• Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons

• Supplementary Feeding Program

• Social Pension

• Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program

• Cash for Work

3.3. Specifically, the PAMANA Protective Services/LGU-Led Program using the modified community-driven development (CDD) process, and subject to the concurrence of the OPAPP regarding the specific projects proposed, shall be used to provide community-focused interventions designed to address risks and vulnerabilities in the conflict-affected and -vulnerable areas, such as infrastructure to provide access to basic services and utilities, et al.

3.4. Subject to fund availability, project prioritization and using the modified CDD process, community infrastructure projects may be funded under the EO 70 allocation. These include projects that contribute to access to basic services and utilities, as well as strengthen community-based, IP-responsive mechanisms/processes that ensure the safety, protection and well-being of various vulnerable sectors (children and youth, women, elderly and Persons with Disability, et al.) such as child development centers, women's center, senior citizens buildings, tribal halls, livelihood-related projects, water system, among others.

3.5. Other activities and strategies

3.5.1. Strategic Communication. The Department, through the Social Marketing Service, will develop social behavior change communication strategies designed to inform potential beneficiaries and the public regarding the interventions provided by DSWD, and encourage them to avail of these programs and services to promote positive attitude and perception towards the government.

3.5.2. Standards and Regulatory Services. To support the whole of nation approach, the Department shall also ensure that the services of Social Welfare and Development Agencies (SWDAs) reach the conflict-affected and -vulnerable communities and other sectoral groups. The Standards Bureau and the Field Offices shall provide technical assistance to SWDAs to ensure that their service delivery shall be inclusive of individuals and families in conflict-affected and vulnerable areas.

3.5.3. Intensified Technical Assistance for LSWDO. The Department, through the SWIDB, will develop appropriate learning and development interventions for the LSWDO to assist them in developing their competencies to deliver effective and efficient services for the FR, their families and communities.

4. Monitoring and Evaluation

4.1. To ensure compliance to this AO and for progress monitoring, reporting shall be as follows:

• Monthly Reports. EO 70 Regional PFPs shall prepare monthly reports on EO 70 implementation using the prescribed monthly reporting form (Annex F). This will include details on assistance provided to FRs, community resiliency, DSWD Activities and FO participation in the RTF-ELCAC.

EO 70 RFPs shall review and consolidate the reports of the Regional PFPs and submit the same to the Office of the Undersecretary for inclusive and Sustainable Peace (OU-ISP) every 5th day of the succeeding month.

The OU-ISP will prepare the national consolidation for these reports, for submission to the NTF-ELCAC and the different Clusters/Lines of Efforts.

• Quarterly Reports. All EO 70 Regional Program Focal Persons shall submit quarterly reports on the progress of the EO 70 output and program level indicators to the National Program Management Offices (NPMO) concerned using the DSWD Harmonized Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation System (HPMES) Forms 4, 4A and 4B per DSWD AO 8, s. 2019, for vetting and consolidation. NPMOs shall then submit the consolidated regional reports to the OU-ISP.

The same report will also be submitted by the EO 70 Regional Program Focal Persons to the Policy Development and Planning Section (PDPS) of the respective FOs, through the EO 70 Regional Focal Person, for onward submission to the Policy Development and Planning Bureau (PDPB).

Submission of the quarterly reports shall follow the prescribed timeline of the HPMES pursuant to DSWD AO 8, s. 2019. (Please see Annex G for HPMES Results Matrix).

• Annual Accomplishment Report. The OU-ISP shall prepare the Annual Accomplishment Report for the EO 70 Program at the end of every year, based on reports submitted by the FOs.

• Incident Reports. Major incidents related to the DSWD EO 70 implementation, including disturbances and threats to peace and security, are to be reported immediately by the concerned FO to the OUISP, whether through email, text message or call. Likewise, the OUISP shall be informed immediately of any upcoming major event related to EO 70.

4.2. Program Evaluation. Program evaluation on the implementation shall be done annually through the conduct of a Program Review and Evaluation Workshop (PREW) — in compliance to DSWD AO 9, s. 2018. An official report on the result of the PREW shall be processed for possible program implementation enhancement. The PDPB shall ensure the conduct of the PREW.

4.3. DSWD Outcome Evaluation. The DSWD Results Framework shall be evaluated by a third party based on the outcome indicators committed by the Department. Appropriate funding shall be proposed in 2022 by the Office of the Undersecretary for Sustainable and Inclusive Peace.

VIII. Institutional Arrangements

All OBSUs and FOs are to carry out roles and responsibilities in the DSWD implementation of EO 70 as indicated below, and are to perform other tasks as may be assigned by the appropriate authorities:

A. DSWD Central Office/Operations

1. Office of the Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace

a. Head of Office shall serve as the Chairperson of the DSWD Technical Working Group for Executive Order 70, s. 2018;

b. Lead in the crafting and cascading of the Department Results Framework (RF) and Results Matrix (Agency ImPlan) in coordination and collaboration with the concerned OBSUs and Field Offices;

c. Oversee and manage DSWD ImPlan implementation relative to EO 70, s. 2018 and NAPWFS 2017-2022;

d. Lead the team in all decisions that are to be undertaken in both the policy and program level;

e. Provide guidance, assistance and support to the OBSUs to produce specific deliverables;

f. Ensure availability of operational funds, specifically in the conduct of consultation dialogues, conferences and other related activities;

g. Ensure a harmonized monitoring system in the operationalization of EO 70, s. 2018 and NAPWPS 2017-2022.

h. Coordinate and collaborate with the DSWD GAD TWG as needed to ensure gender responsiveness of PPAs as indicated in the DSWD ImPlan;

i. Coordinate with existing DSWD TWGs to ensure responsiveness and harmonization of different DSWD initiatives;

j. Lead in the conduct of DSWD outcome evaluation.

2. Office of the Assistant Secretary for OSEC Concerns

a. Head of Office shall serve as the Vice Chairperson of the DSWD Technical Working Group for Executive Order 70, s. 2018.

b. Assist the Chairperson in the performance of his duties.

c. Coordinate with existing DSWD TWGs to ensure responsiveness and harmonization of different DSWD initiatives.

3. Statutory and Specialized Programs (Pantawid Pamilya, PMB, SLP, KC)

a. Incorporate in their regular program operations the objectives of EO 70, s. 2018 and NAPWPS, thus specific activities being implemented by the programs towards the achievement of the objectives (EO 70 and NAPWPS) should be monitored and reported by concerned OBS;

b. Facilitate provision of programs and interventions to eligible target beneficiaries;

c. Coordinate with other implementing offices relative to the implementation of the programs;

d. Communicate information and agreements relative to EO 70, s. 2018 and NAPWPS to regional counterparts;

e. Facilitate augmentation and provision of program package as may be deemed necessary;

f. Provide technical assistance, capacity building to regional counterparts and/or other stakeholders on the specification of program implementation;

g. Monitor and evaluate program implementation;

h. Facilitate the submission of periodic updates and status reports; and

i. Attend meetings, workshops and other similar activities relative to program implementation.

4. Social Marketing Service

a. Draft a communication plan based on the DSWD EO 70 Results Framework to generate public awareness, understanding and appreciation of the contributions of the Department to end local communist armed conflict;

b. Coordinate with other implementing offices relative to the implementation of the plan;

c. Communicate information and agreements relative to EO 70, s. 2018 to regional counterparts; and

d. Attend meetings, workshops and other similar activities relative to program implementation.

5. Standards Bureau

a. Monitor registered, licensed and accredited SWDAs to ensure continuous compliance to set standards and operational policies;

b. Provide needed reports or data, if necessary;

c. Provide technical assistance to SWDAs in enhancing their services to conflict-affected and -vulnerable communities;

d. Attend meetings, workshops and other similar activities relative to the implementation of these guidelines.

6. Finance and Management Service

a. Consolidate, review and evaluate the proposed budget of the DSWD participating OBSUs/FOs to ensure the availability of needed funds, and for onward inclusion in the annual budget proposal of the Department.

b. Assist OBSUs and facilitate the request for funding support from various sources in accordance with usual accounting and auditing process;

c. Coordinate with other implementing offices relative to the implementation of the program, specifically but not limited to the liquidation of funds that may have been transferred to other participating Departments/Agencies in the course of the implementation of the projects; and

d. Attend meetings, workshops and other similar activities relative to program implementation.

7. Information and Communication Technology Management Service

a. Assist OBSUs and provide Information and Communication Technology support in the implementation of EO 70, s. 2018;

b. Coordinate with the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) on the use of the FR-IS, and with other implementing offices relative to the implementation of the program; and

c. Attend meetings, workshops and other similar activities relative to program implementation.

8. Policy Development and Planning Bureau

a. Lead in formulating and updating of DSWD's plan and policies along EO 70, s. 2018 and NAPWPS to include initiatives on women, peace and security;

b. Lead in monitoring and evaluation of DSWD commitments along EO 70 and NAPWPS;

c. Coordinate with other implementing OBS relative to the implementation of the program; and

d. Attend meetings, workshops and other similar activities relative to program implementation.

9. Social Welfare Institutional Development Bureau

a. Conduct needs assessment of LSWDOs

b. Develop learning and development intervention program for LSWDOs

10. Social Technology Bureau

a. Incorporate the objectives of EO 70, s. 2018 in the development of models of intervention addressing current and emerging needs and issues of poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged individuals, groups, and families.

11. Disaster Response Management Bureau

a. Incorporate in their regular program operations the objectives of EO 70, s. 2018, as long as beneficiaries are affected by any natural or human-induced disasters;

b. Coordinate with other implementing offices relative to the implementation of the program;

c. Communicate information and agreements relative to EO 70, s. 2018 to regional counterparts;

d. Facilitate the submission of periodic updates and status reports; and

e. Attend meetings, workshops and other similar activities relative to program implementation.

12. Human Resource Management and Development Service

a. Enhance the competencies of DSWD personnel and intermediaries in performing and achieving the goals and objectives under E.O. 70, s. 2018

b. Execute a non-disclosure and confidentiality agreement with involved and concerned DSWD officials and staff

c. Conduct trainings for DSWD personnel relative to handling confidential information

13. Procurement Management Service

a. Ensure the efficient, effective, and timely provision of goods and non-consulting services, contracting for infrastructure projects, and consulting services to support the DSWD in attaining its vision and mission.

B. DSWD Field Offices/Support to the Operations

1. Manage and supervise the overall implementation of the programs relative to EO 70, s. 2018 and NAPWPS 2017-2022 implementation;

2. Coordinate and collaborate with other stakeholders in the regional and local level including mobilization of resources to guarantee programs' sustainability;

3. Ensure provision of technical assistance to other stakeholders in the field including the Local Government Units;

4. Provide technical assistance to appropriate LSWDOs, specifically on, but not limited to, case management of FRs;

5. Conduct regular monitoring of program implementation;

6. Submit periodic updates and report to the Central Office (Attention: OUISP); and PDPB; and

7. Attend meetings, workshops and other similar activities relative to program implementation.

IX. Funding

For CY 2020, funds shall be charged to the EO 70 budget allocated for the Department, and to the regular funds of the programs and services, as needed.

Thereafter, the participating OBSUs/FOs shall include in their respective annual budget proposals the budgetary requirements for their respective commitments in the implementation of EO 70.

X. Effectivity

This Memorandum Circular shall take effect immediately and shall supersede Administrative Order No. 14, series of 2019.

Copies of this Circular shall be disseminated to all concerned Offices, Bureaus, Services and Units at the DSWD Central and Field Offices.

Issued this 20th day of March 2020 in Quezon City, Philippines.

(SGD.) ROLANDO JOSELITO D. BAUTISTA

Secretary, DSWD

ANNEX A

Non-Disclosure and Confidentiality Agreement

This NON-DISCLOSURE AND CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") is entered into by and between:

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), with office address at Batasang Pambansa Complex, Constitution Hills, Quezon City, herein represented by UNDERSECRETARY RENE GLEN O. PAJE, Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, hereinafter referred to as the "First Party";

-and-

_________________________ (Name), of legal age, single/married, Filipino, with address at ___________________, hereinafter referred to as the "Second Party";

DSWD and the _______________ (Name) may hereinafter be referred to as a PARTY or collectively as PARTIES;

Both PARTIES agree that:

1. All information, records and documents disclosed by one PARTY to the other and the latter's employees and agents are pursuant to this Agreement.

2. All plans, reports and results made by either or both Parties under this agreement shall be in confidence (Confidential Information).

3. The First Party provides the Second Party privileged access to documents, databases, applications, systems and other such materials and equipment that contains records and information of clients and beneficiaries which are private and confidential in nature, as needed in the performance of the tasks and functions of the Second Party.

4. In respect of any Confidential Information disclosed, furnished or made accessible by the First Party to the Second Party, the Second Party undertakes:

a. To hold and maintain in strictest confidence the Confidential Information disclosed to it by the First Party or otherwise learned by it in the course of its transactions with the First Party;

b. To keep Confidential Information disclosed by the First Party in a safe and secure place using reasonable technical and organizational security measures to prevent unauthorized access, destruction, corruption or loss of such information and avoid disclosure or use of Confidential Information of the First Party in order to prevent it from falling into the public domain or the possession of persons other than those authorized under the Agreement;

c. To use the Confidential Information disclosed by the First Party solely in connection with the Purpose of this Agreement;

d. Not to utilize the Confidential Information disclosed in any way which is detrimental to the Purpose of the interests of the First Party;

e. Not to disclose the Confidential Information divulged by the First Party in whole or in part — including the existence of this agreement — to any person, except to Authorized Persons within the Second Party, PROVIDED, that such disclosure is strictly necessary to fulfill the Purpose;

f. Not to permit the use of Confidential information by unauthorized persons for their benefit or to the detriment of the First Party;

g. To notify the First Party within three (3) business days of any actual or suspected misuse, misappropriation, or unauthorized disclosure of Confidential Information;

h. To take all such steps as shall from time to time be necessary to ensure compliance with the provisions of this Agreement;

i. Not to publish, copy/make copies, or make any transcripts or summaries of the whole or any part of the Confidential Information, save as is necessary and/or appropriate for the Purpose, or unless authorized by the First Party in writing. All such copies, summaries and transcripts shall be deemed to be Confidential Information;

j. That the First Party shall retain all rights in and to its Confidential Information. Thus, upon written request from the First Party and within ten (10) business days from receipt of such written request, the Second Party shall destroy — or return to the First Party, if so directed — all Confidential Information, whether written, in printed form, tangible or otherwise, which is in the Second Party's or any Authorized Person's possession, custody or control and provide the First Party with a written declaration of the Second Party confirming that the provisions of this clause have been fully complied with;

5. The foregoing provisions shall not apply to any Confidential Information which the Second Party can prove:

a. Was in the public domain at the time it was disclosed by the First Party or has entered the public domain through no fault of the Recipient;

b. Was in the possession of the Second Party, without restriction, at the time of disclosure, as demonstrated by files in existence at the time of disclosure;

c. Was received from a source who lawfully acquired it and who is under no obligation restricting its disclosure and without breach of this Agreement and otherwise not in violation of the First Party's right; and

d. Was disclosed with the prior written approval of the First Party;

e. Is required to be disclosed: (i) pursuant to the order or requirement of a court, administrative agency, or other governmental body competent to require the disclosure; and/or (ii) by any applicable law, legislation, or regulation provided that the Second Party gives the First Party reasonable notice of at least ten (10) business days prior to such disclosure to allow the First Party a reasonable opportunity to seek a protective order or to otherwise prevent or restrict such disclosure or perform other remedial measure.

6. Any violation of the herein Agreement, including any violation committed by the Second Party's agents and employees, shall render the said Second Party liable for all consequential damages suffered by the First Party. Both Parties recognize that any breach of the obligations contained in the herein Confidentiality Clause will cause irreparable loss and would not be compensable by monetary damages alone and, accordingly the wronged Party shall, in addition to the other remedies available at law or in equity, be entitled to obtain specific performance or injunctive relief against the Party in violation with respect to the threatened or actual breach of the herein Confidentiality Clause or the continuation of any such breach.

7. Parties found guilty of violations to this Agreement shall be penalized pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 10173, or the Data Privacy Act of 2012.

8. The Second Party agrees to the foregoing terms and conditions and this Agreement remains in effect continuously until termination of employment. It is further agreed that, upon employment termination with the First Party, the Second Party shall not keep, recreate or deliver any confidential, sensitive, or proprietary information, whether or not it is labeled as such, acquired while employed by the First Party.

 

RENE GLEN O. PAJE	[SECOND PARTY]
Undersecretary	[Position/Designation]
Inclusive and Sustainable Peace	[Office]
Date: __________________	Date: __________________

ANNEX B

Confidential

ANNEX C

Confidential

ANNEX D

Flowchart of Provision of Services to FRs

ANNEX E

HPMES

Developing an Indicator (Outcome Level)

Result Statements	What do you want to know?	How will you know? Where will you base your answer?	Operative word(s)	Variable	Operational variable	Indicator
All Former Rebels, from the time they surrender to reintegration in the society, improved their level of well-being	Did DSWD programs provide improvement in level of well-being of all Former Rebels?	If all FRs have improved level of well-being   Social Welfare and Development Indicators (SWDI)	Improved level of well-being	Improved level of well-being	Level of well-being	Level of well-being improved
Individuals in conflict-affected and vulnerable communities with equitable access to social protection interventions	Did DSWD programs provide equitable access to social protection interventions?	If individuals have equitable access to social protection interventions	Access to social protection interventions	Level of access to social protection interventions on education	Level to access to social protection interventions on education	Level of access to social protection interventions on education
Level of access to social protection interventions on health and nutrition	Level of access to social protection interventions on health and nutrition	Level of access to social protection interventions on health and nutrition
Level of access to disaster risk response and rehabilitation measures	Level of access to disaster risk response and rehabilitation measures	Level of access to disaster risk response and rehabilitation measures
Level of access to economic opportunities	Level of access to economic opportunities	Level of access to economic opportunities
Conflict-affected and vulnerable communities are resilient against communist exploitation and propaganda	Did DSWD programs provide resilient measures against communist exploitation?	If communities are resilient they will no longer support communist exploitation	Resilient communities	Level of resiliency	Level of resiliency	Level of resiliency

 

Did DSWD programs provide resilient measures against communist exploitation and propaganda?

If communities are resilient they will no longer support communist activities and propaganda

Resilient communities

Level of resiliency

Level of resiliency

Level of resiliency

 

EO 70 HPMES RM Form: Outcome 1

DSWD EO 70 Framework HPMES Forms

ANNEX F

EO 70 Monthly Report

ANNEX G

Implementing Procedures for the Provision of Livelihood Assistance to Former Rebels and Individuals/Families in the Conflict-Vulnerable and Affected Areas

I. PROVISION OF LIVELIHOOD SETTLEMENT GRANTS TO FORMER REBELS

A. DESCRIPTION

The Livelihood Settlement Grants (LSG) is a financial assistance directly provided to each eligible Former Rebel (FR) to support the establishment or continuity of their livelihoods or economic activities in their communities.

The LSG can be used as a seed capital to start-up new or existing feasible and viable micro-enterprises or purchase of inputs or starter kits needed for the identified micro-enterprises and/or for employment-related activities such as securing employment requirements, registration fee for technical-vocational skills training and augmentation for transportation expenses (meals and fare) at least during the 1st month of employment. It is highly recommended that guaranteed employment must be identified in which the LSG will be used.

The LSG is mechanism that augments or complements other interventions of member-agencies of the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC).

B. DEFINITION OF TERMS

1. Grant Utilization Plan (GUP) — A document that details the specific components of the micro-enterprises which includes all the necessary materials, inputs and other operational costs or employment needs. The GUP determines it how much shall be funded by the LSG and the possible counterpart by the grantee or other stakeholders. The GUP shall be signed by the grantee (FR) and reviewed and endorsed by the Project Development Officer (PDO) of Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP).

2. Individual Grant Proposal (IGP) — A document which details the various components of the micro-enterprise or employment that is proposed for funding through the LSG. The IGP should be signed by the PDO as the one who prepared, the Regional Program Coordinator (RPC) of SLP Regional Program Management Office (RPMO) and the Regional Director (RD) or Officer-in-Charge of the DSWD Field Office.

C. COST PARAMETER

The maximum amount of LSG that each eligible FR may receive is Twenty Thousand Pesos (Php20,000.00).

D. FUND SOURCE

The provision of LSG to each of the eligible FR shall be funded against SLP-General Appropriations Act (GAA) or from any other fund sources.

E. ELIGIBLE RECIPIENTS

The LSG will be provided on a per family basis with one or more Former Rebels who are duly certified by Joint AFP-PNP Intelligence Committee (JAPIC), endorsed by the E-CLIP Committee and at least 18 years old.

However, in case the beneficiary representing the family is 16-17 years old, a consent from the legal guardians or parents must be submitted.

All eligible beneficiaries must undergo the processes as stipulated in this Annex.

F. IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS

1. Project Proposal Preparation

a. The assigned Project Development Officer (PDO) of the DSWD Field Office shall conduct a 1-2 hours orientation on the processes to be undertaken in the provision of LSG;

b. After the orientation, the PDO shall facilitate the preparation of Individual Grant Proposal (IGP) with the Grant Utilization Plan (GUP);

c. The GUP shall be signed by the FR and endorsed by the PDO while the IGP shall be prepared by the PDO;

d. The other signatories of the IGP are the Regional Program Coordinator of the SLF Regional Program Management Office (RPMO) as the one who reviewed it and endorsed for approval and the Regional Director or his/her Officer-in-Charge (OIC) as the one who approves the IGP; and

e. The attachments to the IGP are the signed GUP, the Joint AFP-PNP Intelligence Committee (JAPIC) Certification certifying the legitimacy of the FR, and the E-CLIP Committee endorsement.

2. Project Proposal Review and Approval

a. The submitted IGP with the GUP shall undergo the review of the SLP-Regional Program Management Office prior to the approval of the Regional Director or his/her OIC. Once approved, it shall undergo usual processing prior to disbursement.

b. For efficiency purposes, the IGPs may be consolidated into a Mother Grant Proposal (MGP) to be prepared by the PDO, reviewed and recommended by the RPC of SLP-RPMO and to be approved by the Regional Director or his/her OIC.

3. Grant Releasing

a. The LSG shall be directly released to each of the FR;

b. The LSG may be released through cash or individual check following the existing government auditing and accounting rules and procedures;

c. Pertinent documents relative to the disbursement such as disbursement vouchers or cash assistance payroll shall be properly accomplished and secured which shall be attached to the liquidation report; and

d. The only authorized person to receive the grant is the one whose name is in the approved grant proposal. In the absence of the authorized person, an "authorization" bearing the name, signature, and a photocopy of the identification card of the said person shall be presented by the representative. Only the legal-aged member of the family is allowed to receive the grant on behalf of the grantee.

4. Project Implementation, Technical Assistance and Monitoring

a. The PDO shall conduct a project monitoring visit at least one (1) month or earlier after the release of the LSG to each of the grantees. The aim of the monitoring visit is to check the status of the project and determine if there are needs of the grantees that would help them better manage their enterprises. The PDO may directly coordinate with the partners/stakeholders relative for possible assistance or support that they can extend to the grantees;

b. The PDO shall provide a report on the conducted monitoring to the Regional Program Coordinator of SLP-RPMO; and

c. The SLP-RPMO shall provide status report on the funded projects to the SLP-NPMO on a monthly basis or as need arises.

d. After one (1) year of providing LSG, the FRs may be provided with additional livelihood assistance from SLP following its regular implementation process subject to assessment and availability of fund.

II. PROVISION OF LIVELIHOOD ASSISTANCE TO INDIVIDUALS/FAMILIES IN THE CONFLICT VULNERABLE AND/OR AFFECTED AREAS

The SLP may provide livelihood assistance to individuals or families in the conflict-vulnerable/affected communities provided that the project barangays are within the municipalities/cities endorsed by the RTF-ELCAC or the NTF-ELCAC. The existing guidelines of SLP applicable to these contexts shall be used.