With barely a week before the midterm elections on May 12, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian issued a memorandum instructing all officials and employees to uphold data privacy and confidentiality to ensure that the agency’s programs, projects, and services are free from partisan politics.

“In connection with the upcoming conduct of the May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections and the BARMM Parliamentary Elections, the undersigned hereby reminds all officials, employees, and personnel of this Department to uphold confidentiality and data privacy of all records, information, and data gathered in connection with the Department’s programs,” the DSWD chief said in a memorandum signed on Monday (May 5).

Secretary Gatchalian also extended the reminder to all parent-leaders (PLs) of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) who may possess information on other 4Ps beneficiaries.

“While the Department refrains from intervening in any political matters and respects the rights of PLs to vote and support candidates of their choice, they are strictly prohibited from disclosing to any individual or entity, any information, records, or data related to DSWD programs, which they possess or have access by virtue of their assignment/designation as PLs within their respective neighborhood,” Secretary Gatchalian pointed out.

The DSWD chief also warned that any unauthorized disclosure of information, without prior approval from the agency, shall be considered a violation and will be subjected to administrative penalties, legal actions, and other sanctions as prescribed by law. (AKDL)