Taguig: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is planning to introduce a crash course on social work specifically designed for reporters covering the agency. This initiative will be implemented through the newly-renovated DSWD Academy located in Taguig City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the proposal emerged during the DSWD Media Forum, where Assistant Secretary Janet Armas of the Department's Regulatory Services and Institutional Development Group (RSIDG) served as the host panel guest. When asked about the possibility of mainstream media members enrolling in an introductory course on social work, Armas expressed enthusiasm for the idea, suggesting it may become a priority for the DSWD Academy next year.
"We are willing and excited to conduct the crash-course for our media practitioners next year," Armas stated, emphasizing the department's commitment to finding funding for the program so that it can commence at the start of the year. She highlighted the importance of partnering with media to inform the public about the Academy's activities and standards.
Armas underscored the crucial role of media in sharing information and inspiring social workers to engage with the Academy's programs. She encouraged media professionals to collaborate closely with the department to narrate real-life stories of frontline workers, especially during crises and calamities, thereby broadening the Academy's reach.
The DSWD Academy will serve as the primary venue for training aimed at enhancing media reportorial skills, ensuring accurate news delivery on DSWD programs and services, and related agencies. The DSWD Strategic Communications Group (StratComm) plans to distribute forms to media partners to gather their suggestions on topics, required resources, and areas of interest for the training.
The proposed introductory course for reporters is planned to span three days, offering free accommodations and meals for participating media practitioners. The DSWD Academy functions as the national center for learning, certification, and excellence for the country's social welfare and development workforce.
Following decades of neglect, the Academy underwent renovations and was relaunched in May 2025. It currently offers 72 programs, ranging from basic to specialized and ladderized courses, all free of charge. The DSWD Thursday Media Forum, where this initiative was discussed, is held weekly at the New Press Center of the central office in Quezon City, hosted by Special Assistant to the Secretary for Strategic Communications Raymond Burgos and Director Dianne Joie Ruiz of the Digital Media Service.
