The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has lauded the recent directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to enhance the opportunities for Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) workers in order for them to secure permanent positions within the government.

“The DSWD extends its full support to this endeavor to ensure COS and JO workers are given learning and development opportunities that will pave the way for their career growth,” Asst. Secretary for Disaster Response Management Group Irene Dumlao, who is also the agency spokesperson, said on Friday (April 16).

Based on the President’s directive, government agencies are called upon to capacitate and empower COS and JO workers through education and training, so they would have a higher chance to get permanent positions in government.

“This initiative underscores the Marcos administration’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and providing avenues for professional growth within the public sector. This will also provide these hardworking individuals with the benefits they deserve,” Asst. Sec. Dumlao emphasized.

The DSWD spokesperson said prioritizing the empowerment of COS and JO workers demonstrates the government’s recognition of their invaluable contributions and dedication to public service.

“The DSWD itself acknowledges the vital roles of thousands of COS and JO workers of the agency who serve as front liners in delivering social protection programs and services to our clients,”  Asst. Sec. Dumlao pointed out.

Asst. Sec. Dumlao said recognizing the significant role of the agency’s COS and JO workers, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian has rolled out efforts to get additional plantilla positions for them.

“We really value the importance of our COS and JO workers. With having more than 19,000 COS and JO workers, we believe that they are the backbone of our operations,” the DSWD spokesperson said.#