DSWD called ‘a super endo violator’ due to big number of temporary staff

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Imee Marcos called the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) a “super endo violator” for having the largest number of contractual employees in the government.

During the hearing of the Senate finance subcommittee on the proposed 2025 budget for DSWD, Marcos said in a mix of Filipino and English:

“It seems you have the largest contractual and job orders in the government. So, you are a super endo violator. How is this? What did DBM say? Can’t we begin, assuming that we have a three-year program? At least we start it marginally. I understand something’s already been added, but isn’t there more?”

To her remarks, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian agreed and simply said yes.

On the part of the DBM, it was Budget Assistant Secretary Leonido Pulido III who responded to Marcos’ statement.

“There is a continuing effort with DSWD in order to start the regularization of at least 4,000 to 5,000 of existing contractual positions,” said Pulido.

READ: DSWD: 4,200 contractual positions to enhance 4Ps services

At this point, Gatchalian interjected, pointing out that a total of 6,135 employees have become contractual since he assumed his post.

“So, still not permanent? When will they become permanent?” Marcos asked in Filipino, to which Pulido said yes.

Pulido then clarified that with the help of DSWD, they would push for the regularization of at least 4,000 to 5,000 employees before the year ends.

READ: Why are 53.4% of DSWD workers still contractual?

“Hopefully by this year, we are looking at 4,000 to 5,000. We are coordinating with the DSWD for the office of the secretary,” said Pulido,

Marcos repeatedly asked Pulido if they can commit to such, noting that there are only two months before the year ends.

“Yes. We are quite confident na kaya naman pong habulin. Best effort,” said Pulido.

(Yes. We are quite confident that we can achieve this with best effort.)