COURTS/CORRECTIONS

Courts and corrections are interconnected within the broader

criminal justice system, they serve distinct roles and functions.
However,
·Courts are institutions responsible for administering justice
through the application of laws.
·Correction is the system responsible for the punishment,
supervision, and rehabilitation of individuals who have been
convicted of crimes.

Background
Ancient times
·Various forms of punishment were practiced, including fines,
banishment, physical punishment, and imprisonment.
·Many ancient cultures allowed the victim or a member of the
victim’s family to deliver justice.
·The code of Hammurabi in Babylon is generally considered the
first such set of laws. It has its core principle, a principle of justice,
known as lex taliones “an eye for an eye and tooth for the tooth”
·Punishments could be brutal – the condemned boiled in oil or fed
to wild beasts.

Medieval and Early Modern Period

·As in ancient times, medieval Europe had veery harsh punishments.
Torture and death were commonly administered. From the depths
of the “dark ages” came cruel instruments that tortured as they
killed.
·Prisons were often used for temporary detention rather than long-
term incarceration.
·People came to watch public executions to see the convicts burn
be hanged, or be beheaded.
 COURTS/CORRECTIONS
18th and 19th century
·It is a century of change. It is the period of recognizing human
dignity.
·Philosophers like Cesare Becarria also known as “the father of
modern criminal law and the father of criminal justice” advocated
for more humane and rational approaches to punishments.

19th to 20th Centuries

·The emergence of the rehabilitation model, which focused on
reforming offenders through education, vocational training, and
therapy. However, this approach fell out of favor in the mid-20th
century with the rise of punitive model, which prioritized
punishment and deterrence.
·Group therapy, counseling, and behavior modification were all
part of the approach.

Contemporary Period
·Growing recognition of the limitations and shortcomings of
punitive approaches to corrections.
·There has been renewed interest in rehabilitation, restorative
justice, and alternative forms of punishment such as community
service, probation, and electronic monitoring. Additionally, there
has been a greater emphasis on addressing issues such as
overcrowding, racial disparities, and the treatment of mentally ill
offenders within the correctional system.

Correction is the administration of penalty in such a way that the

offender is corrected, that is, his current behavior is kept within
acceptable limits at the same time his general life adjustment is
modified.
 COURTS/CORRECTIONS
Correctional settings are where they put people (including children)
with unusual behavior and reaction were placed to bring correction
to their attitude and behavior.

Two main agencies in the correctional setting:

Probation – a period of supervision in the community instead of
serving time in prison. The purpose of probation is to provide an
opportunity for offenders to rehabilitate themselves and become
productive members of society. This includes requirements such as
reporting to a probation officer, drug testing, and community
service.
Parole – a period of supervision in the community after serving
time in prison. It provides an opportunity for the prisoner to
reintegrate into society and become a productive member of the
community.

For the re-socialization process to effective, the offender will have

to be provided:
1. Significant individual relationships
2. Membership in groups
3. Access to the normal opportunity structures of the community
4. Remedial services
5. Correction of those conditions in his personal community that
reinforce his tendency to commit offenses.

Use of social work methods in correctional settings:

Social case work in correctional settings
It involves a close face to face relationship mainly basis in working
people and their problem. The practice of the case work is being
governed by five basic assumptions:
1. Every individual must be seen as a person of worth and dignity;
 COURTS/CORRECTIONS
2. Behavior, whether acceptable or unacceptable to the community,
express a need of the individual;
3. An individual can and will change his/her behavior if the right time
and in the right amount;
4. If the offer of help is given before the problem become serious
aggravated, the response is likely to be better; and
5. The family is the most influence force in the development of
personality in the crucial years.

Social groupwork in correctional settings

The purpose of group in correctional settings:
1. To strengthen the emotional security if the offender within the
framework of the group so that he does not feel alone and
helpless but also moves towards not being wholly dependent on it;
2. To strengthen the offender’s independence by helping him to
actually participate in the group discussion, and not to submit to a
gang leader or a powerful sub-group;
3. The introduction of an adult (group worker) who represent the
values of a society offenders often reject, but who, because of his
accepting attitude represent adult security love; and
4. To provide an opportunity to gain inner resilience and status with
the group through accomplishment in activities by society.

Community organization in correctional settings

Community organization has an important role in rehabilitation
and reintegration or released offenders into the society. At the
same time, community organization is used widely for the
prevention of crime and delinquency.
The convicts after completing the sentence face problems in the
adjustment with family, relatives, peer group, neighborhood, and
employment.
 COURTS/CORRECTIONS
Social workers consider family to be an important unit that can
provide support released that offender take care of his various
needs. For this, social worker has to mobilize the resources for
meeting the needs of individuals and establishing support groups
on whom one can rely upon, as when needed.

Social action in correctional settings

Social action has too important role to play in the field of
corrections. Among others, the process of Public Interest Litigation
(PIL) could be mentioned in this regard. The undertrials are kept in
the jail for years without their cases even being processed, let
alone decide.
In such cases, social workers have approached the court to get
justice for such under trials that have spent more years in judicial
custody then required in the jails just waiting for their trials to
begin.

Social work research and social welfare in correctional setting

There is a need to evaluate the current programs and service in
field of corrections bring about improvement in these settings.
Extensive research studies are required in order to select
alternative to the institutional care.
At the same time, it is desirable to measure the relative efficacy of
institutional and non-institutional services in the field of
corrections.

Clienteles being served by the Social Workers in

Correctional/Court setting
1. Inmates – social workers assist prisoners through counseling and
program participation to aid in their rehabilitation process.
 COURTS/CORRECTIONS
2. Families of inmates – aiding them in managing the difficulties of
having a loved one in prison and guiding them to access resources
and support networks.
3. Correctional staff – counseling, stress management, conflict
resolution, and training in communication and handling challenging
behaviors.
4. Parolees and probationers – providing assistance with
reintegration into the community, accessing support services, and
complying with the conditions of their release.
5. Community organizations – social workers work with community
groups to help people in the criminal justice system and push for
better policies.
6. CICL -Child in conflict with the law
7. Victim-survivor (abused)
8. CAR – Child at Risk
9. CNSP – Children in Need of Special Protection

Social services and welfare programs offered in correctional

settings:
1. Reentry Programs – assist individuals who are transitioning from
incarceration back into the community.
2. Drug courts – aim to rehabilitate individuals with substance abuse
issue rather than simply incarcerating them.
3. Mental health courts – focuses in diverting individuals with mental
health issues away from the traditional criminal justice system.
4. Probation and parole services – provide monitoring, support, and
guidance to help individuals comply with court orders, access
needed services, and successfully reintegrate into the community.
5. Parenting and family support programs – it strengthens family
relationships and support parental involvement.
6. Legal aid and advocacy services – offer free or low-cost legal
assistance to individuals who cannot afford representation.
 COURTS/CORRECTIONS
Laws mandated in a correctional setting
Republic Act No. 10575 – bureau of corrections act of 2013
Republic Act No. 10592 – an act amending articles 29, 94, 97, 98,
and 99 of act no. 3815, as amended, otherwise known as the
revised penal code.
Republic Act No. 8369 – family courts act of 1997
House Bill No. 393 – establishing the probation system in the
Philippines.
Presidential Decree No. 968 – aims to establish a more
enlightened and humane correctional system in the Philippines.

Agencies
1. Department of Justice (DOJ)
2. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)
3. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
4. Bureau of Corrections (BuCor)
5. Bureau of Child and Youth Welfare (BCYW)
 SCHOOLS
School is an institution designed to provide formal education and
instruction to students. It is a place where students go to learn
academic subjects such as mathematics, science, language, and
history, as well as practical skills such as critical thinking, problem-
solving, and communication.

Schools can range from primary or elementary schools for young

children to secondary or high schools for teenagers, and even to
colleges and universities for higher education. In addition to formal
education, schools can also provide socialization opportunities,
extracurricular activities, and access to resources such as libraries
and technology.

Historical Background
The idea of school grouping students together in a location for the
purposes of learning - has existed for thousands of years. Ancient
Greece considered education in a gymnasium essentia childhood
development. Ancient Rome was famea for its tuition-based system.
Even Ancient India had the "GURUKUL" system of education where
students would live, study and work near a "GURU".

Who invented school?

The beginnings of formal education in Ancient Greece, Rome, India
and China - before covering education in the Middle Ages. Finally,
you'll learn about how the modern system of education was invented
in the United States, beginning in Massachusetts and eventually
spreading throughout the country.

In 19th century, Mr. Horace Mann the Secretary of Education in

Massachusetts invented "MODERN SCHOOL". He was born on May 4,
1796 and he died at the age of sixty-three on August 2, 1879. He was
the father of American Education.
 SCHOOLS
Characteristics of effective school
1. A clear and shared focus - Everybody knows where they are
going and why. The focus is on achieving a shared vision, and all
understand their role in achieving the vision. The focus and vision are
developed from common beliefs and values, creating a consistent
direction for all involved.

2. High standards and expectations for all students - Teachers

and staff believe that all students can learn and meet high standards.
While recognizing that some students must overcome significant
barriers, these obstacles are not seen as impossible to achieve.
Students are offered an ambitious and rigorous course of study.

3. Effective school leadership - Effective instructional and

administrative leadership is required to implement change processes.
Effective leaders are proactive and seek help that is needed. They
nurture an instructional program and school culture conducive to
learning and professional growth. Effective leaders have different
styles and roles teachers and other staff often have a leadership role.

4. High levels of collaboration and communication - There is

strong teamwork among all staff across all grades and subject areas.
Everybody is involved and connected to each other, including parents
and members of the community, to identify problems and work on
solutions.

5. Curriculum, instruction and assessments aligned with state

standards - The planned and actual curricula are aligned with the
essential academic learning requirements. Research-based teaching
strategies and materials are used. Staff understands the role of
classroom and state assessments, what the assessments measure, and
how student work is evaluated.
 SCHOOLS
6. Frequent monitoring of learning and teaching - A steady cycle
of different assessments identifies students who need help. More
support and instructional time are provided, either during the school
day or outside normal school hours, to students who need more help.
Teaching is adjusted based on frequent monitoring of student
progress and needs. Assessment results are used to focus and improve
instructional programs.

7. Focused professional development - A strong emphasis is

placed on training staff in areas of most need. Feedback from
learning and teaching focuses extensive and ongoing professional
development. The support is also aligned with the school or district
vision and objectives.

8. Supportive learning environment - The school has a safe, civil,

healthy and intellectually stimulating learning environment. Students
feel respected and connected with the staff and are engaged in
learning. Instruction is personalized and small learning environments
increase student contact with teachers.

9. High level of family and community involvement - There is a

sense that all have a responsibility to educate students, not just
teachers and staff in schools. Families, as well as businesses, social
service agencies, and community colleges & universities, all play a
vital role in this effort.

Problems
Truancy
Social Withdrawal
Overaggressive Behavior
Rebelliousness
 SCHOOLS
The Effects of Special Physical
Emotional or Economic Problems
Substance Abuse
Sexuality Issues

Needs
Emotional and Mental Health Support
Behavioral Support
Social Skills Development
Academic Support
Crisis Intervention
Family Support and Engagement
Advocacy and Case Management

Clientele
Students
Families
Teachers

Services
Restoration of impaired adjustment.
Provision of resources by mobilizing capacities of individual
students, their parents, families, and the academic and larger
communities
Prevention of maladjustment
Assessment and screening
Individual and group counseling
Crisis intervention and prevention family support, advocacy, and
classroom instruction
 SCHOOLS
The school social worker usually engages in two kinds of activities:
1. Activities which focus on particular children
These would consist of provision of counseling services to selected
children and/or parents in cases where the children manifest certain
problems in school such as negativism, isolation, bullying other
children, etc., provision of group work services to selected children
whose needs and problems are perceived as amenable to change or
modification through a group experience; meeting regularly or
occasionally with groups of parents of school children rediscuss/find
solution to their children's/family's problems which affect the former's
performance in school; collaboration with teachers, school specialists,
and community agencies in working with particular children with
problems; and providing consultative services to individual teachers
and other school personnel usually in the area of human behavior and
social environment and community resources.

2. Activities which focus on children in general

School social workers often participate in school administration by
serving on curriculum and other school committees, by providing
consultation on the educational programs with groups of parents or
teachers, and by acting as liaison between the school and the
community by representing the school on academic and other
community planning bodies.
The first known school social work program in the country took the
form of an "experiment" which began in January, 1924 and ended in
March, 1925, at the Zaragoza Elementary School in Tondo (now the
Rosauro Almario Elementary School). The project resulted from the
voluntary act of a social worker in the (then) Public Welfare
Commission, Josefa Jara Martinez, to serve as a School Counselor,
because of her concern about the growing number of school drop-
outs who were being committed to the correctional agency for
youthful offenders,.the (then) Welfareville Institutions.
 SCHOOLS
Social work returned to the school scene in 1965 when the City of
Manila's Department of Social Welfare set up a School Social Service
program in eight public elementary and secondary schools, mainly in
response to the high incidence of dropouts in government schools.
Private education is also known to have established school social
work programs. Among these are Victoria School in Quezon City, the
St. James Academy in Malabon, and Jose Abad Santos Memorial
School (JASMS), affiliated with the Philippine Women's University. The
program at the JASMS, started in 1962, is today considered to be a
very important aspect of the school program. At the St. Joseph
Cupertino School, a school for the mentally retarded in Quezon City.

Programs
Guidance Counseling
Facilitating Community Relations
Recruitment and Coordination of the school volunteer program
Coordinating the clinical team

Laws
Republic Act (RA) 9155, also known as the Governance of Basic
Education Act of 2001
Republic Act of 10647 or The Ladderized Education Act of 2014
Republic Act No. 7722 or the Higher Education Act of
1994Republic Act No.10627 Anti- Bullying Act of 2013
Republic Act No. 10618 also known as Rural Farm Schools Act
Republic Act No. 10533 or Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013
Republic Act No. 11307 Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang
Pilipino Act
 SCHOOLS
Agencies
Department of Education (DepEd)
Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
Philippine Red Cross (PRC)
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
Pre-Spanish Era
Health care in the Philippines extends as far back as the 15th century.
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, life and by extension health care,
was centered around the animate and inanimate world.

Spanish colonial period

The Spanish colonial period laid the foundation for the development
of healthcare infrastructure in the Philippines. Philippine health system
began to take shape during the Spanish colonial period, with the
establishment of the first hospitals and medical institutions in the 16th
and 17th centuries. These institutions, such as the San Juan de Dios
Hospital and the San Lazaro Hospital, were primarily aimed at serving
the needs of the Spanish army, navy, and the impoverished population.
The Philippine health system formally evolved during the Spanish
colonial period when the first hospital which is the Hospital Real was
built in Cebu in 1565 and was later transferred to Manila as the seat
of the colonial government, to cater to the needs of the Spanish army
and navy. By 1578, the influential Spanish clergy eventually established
the first medical institutions. A few of these remain in operation to this
day, such as the San Juan de Dios Hospital, which treats the disabled,
the abandoned and the poor, and the San Lazaro Hospital, which
provides care for lepers. In 1578, Fray Juan Clemente, a 54-year-old
botanist and lay brother, established Hospital de los Indios Naturales,
or Hospital de Naturales. Clemente died after 20 years of working at
Hospital de Naturales. A few years after, a fire destroyed the hospital
once more (the first time in 1583). The reconstruction of the hospital
led to the development of the Hospital de San Lazar, which is the
hospital for lepers.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
The Philippine Revolution and American colonial period
The Bureau of Public Health was organized under the revolutionary
government established by General Emilio Aguinaldo. The Americans
took over the reins of government, eventually constituting the Board of
Health for the Philippine Islands on 1 July 1901.

The Philippine Commonwealth and establishment of the Republic

With the establishment of the Philippine Commonwealth under
President Manuel L. Quezon, the Department of Health and Public
Welfare was organized on 31 May 1939. The gains achieved during
the Commonwealth era, e.g. additional health facilities and
expansion of sanitation.

Establishment of the Department of Health

1. Establishment of the DOH in 1947 with supervision over various
health bureaus and local health offices.
2. Transformation of the health system during the 1950s, including the
creation of a national network of public health facilities and the
emphasis on primary healthcare.
3. Changes during the martial law period, including the
transformation of the DOH into the Ministry of Health and the
adoption of a primary healthcare approach.
4. Reorganization following the People Power Revolution of 1986,
returning to the presidential form of government and re-establishing
the DOH.
5. Major legislative acts impacting the health system, including the
enactment of the Local Government Code in 1991 and the National
Health Insurance Act in 1995.
6. Launch of the Health Sector Reform Agenda in 1999 and
subsequent policy and organizational changes to improve healthcare
delivery, regulation, management, and financing.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
CHARACTERISTICS
Like social workers in other fields, the social worker in the field of
health, whether on an administrative, planning, or imple- mentation
level, is concerned with continuously defining and solving problems
aimed at facilitating and strengthening social relationships and
mutual adjustments between individuals and their environment. More
specifically, however, her main concern is the interplay of economic,
social and psychological forces in medical care, and she finds or
develops ways and means to solve problems that usually go with
illness and treatment.

Social work practice in the field of health in the country is

concentrated in hospitals (public and private) which provide social
services to patients whose emotional and social situations directly or
indirectly cause, maintain, or aggravate their illness.

The Philippine health system is a dual health system composed of the

public and private sectors. Health services in the public sector are
provided by health facilities run by the National and local
governments and are largely financed through a tax-based
budgeting system. The private sector is largely market-oriented,
where health services are generally paid for through user fees at the
point of service, though the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation
(PhilHealth) also purchases services from both the public and private
sectors.

Social workers in hospitals, who are called "medical social workers,"

work directly with medical personnel and are considered members of
the health team. They also work with outside health and other agency
personnel, since patients' social situations, particularly in the
Philippines, often call for a variety of community resources.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
CLIENTELES
General population - Includes people of all ages, genders, and
socioeconomic backgrounds who seek healthcare services for
various medical needs, including preventive care, treatment of
illnesses, and management of chronic conditions.
Vulnerable populations - Includes marginalized and underserved
groups such as low-income individuals, homeless people,
indigenous communities, and individuals living in remote or rural
areas with limited access to healthcare services.
Children and adolescents - Consists of children, teenagers, and
young adults who require specialized healthcare services tailored
to their developmental needs, including pediatric care,
immunizations, and reproductive health services.
Elderly population - Includes senior citizens and elderly
individuals who require healthcare services for age-related
conditions, chronic illnesses, and preventive care to maintain their
health and well-being.
Maternal and child health clientele - Includes pregnant women,
mothers, and newborns who require maternity care, prenatal and
postnatal services, family planning, and child health services to
ensure safe pregnancies and healthy childbirth outcomes.
Persons with disabilities - Includes individuals with physical,
intellectual, or developmental disabilities who require specialized
healthcare services, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and support
to improve their quality of life and access to healthcare.
Indigenous communities - Consists of indigenous peoples and
tribal communities with unique cultural and healthcare needs,
requiring culturally sensitive and community-based healthcare
services to address their specific health challenges and promote
health equity.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
PROBLEMS AND ISSUES
1. Inadequate Funding and Resource Allocation - The healthcare
sector receives insufficient funding, leading to a lack of essential
medical supplies, outdated equipment, and inadequate facilities.
Healthcare resources are unevenly distributed, with rural areas
experiencing severe shortages of healthcare facilities and
professionals compared to urban centers.
2. Workforce Shortages - Many healthcare professionals, including
doctors and nurses, migrate abroad for better opportunities,
leaving local hospitals understaffed. There is a need for better
training programs and incentives to retain healthcare workers
within the country.
3. Access to Healthcare - Many remote and rural areas lack access
to healthcare services due to poor infrastructure and
transportation. High out-of-pocket costs for medical care and
medication make it difficult for low-income families to afford
necessary treatments.
4. Quality of Care - The quality of care varies widely across
different regions and facilities, with some providing substandard
services. Public hospitals are often overcrowded and understaffed,
leading to long wait times and reduced quality of care.
5. Health Insurance Coverage - While the Philippines has
implemented the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act, many citizens
still lack comprehensive health insurance coverage. Many people
are not fully aware of their health insurance benefits or how to
utilize them effectively.
6. Public Health Issues - The country faces significant challenges
with communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, dengue fever,
and HIV/AIDS. There is a rising burden of non-communicable
diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease,
exacerbated by lifestyle changes and urbanization.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
7. Governance and Corruption - Issues with transparency,
accountability, and efficient management of healthcare resources
hinder the effective delivery of services. Corruption within the
healthcare system leads to misallocation of funds and resources,
further deteriorating the quality of healthcare services.

NEEDS
1. Increased Investment - Boosting investments in healthcare
infrastructure, equipment, and human resources is essential to
improve service delivery. Implementing reforms to ensure efficient
use of resources and equitable distribution of healthcare services.
2. Workforce Development - Enhancing medical education and
training programs to produce more healthcare professionals.
Developing strategies to retain healthcare workers, such as better
salaries, working conditions, and career development
opportunities.
3. Enhanced Access to Healthcare - Building more healthcare
facilities in underserved areas and improving transportation
networks. Providing subsidies and financial assistance to make
healthcare affordable for all citizens.
4. Strengthening Health Insurance - Ensuring that the UHC Act is
fully implemented and that all citizens have access to
comprehensive health insurance. Increasing awareness about
health insurance benefits and how to access them.
5. Public Health Initiatives - Implementing effective public health
campaigns and vaccination programs to prevent the spread of
communicable diseases. Promoting healthy lifestyles and
preventive care to combat non-communicable diseases.
6. Improving Quality of Care - Establishing and enforcing standards
for healthcare services across all facilities. Regularly assessing the
performance of healthcare providers and facilities to ensure
quality and accountability.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
7. Governance and Anti-Corruption Measures - Enhancing the
capacity of health governance institutions to manage resources
effectively and transparently. Implementing strict anti-corruption
measures and ensuring that funds are used appropriately for
healthcare improvements.

SOCIAL SERVICES AND WELFARE PROGRAMS

(a) better acceptance of and more favorable reaction to medical
treatment;
(b) better understanding, on the part of medical personnel, of the
patient's background, to facilitate a faster and more accurate
diagnosis of the patient's illness, and to enlist the family's cooperation
in the treatment and rehabilitation of the patient;
(c) health education of the patient and their families;
(d) utilization of community services that would facilitate
rehabilitation and prevention of illness;
(e) helping the patient and his family to deal with the psycho-social
components of the physical illness

SOCIAL SERVICES AND HEALTHCARE PROGRAMS

Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) - This is a
conditional cash transfer program implemented by the
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), aimed
at improving the health and education outcomes of poor
households. It provides cash grants to eligible families, provided
they comply with certain conditions related to health and
education, such as regular health check-ups and school
attendance for children.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
Malasakit Centers - These are one-stop shops for medical and
financial assistance, established in various government hospitals
across the Philippines. Malasakit Centers provide quick and
convenient access to financial aid from different government
agencies, including PhilHealth, the Department of Health, and the
Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), to help patients
cover their medical expenses.

Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) - Although not a

law, HFEP is a program of the Department of Health (DOH) that
provides funding for the improvement and upgrading of health
facilities, including hospitals, to enhance their capacity to deliver
quality healthcare services.

Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) - This program,

implemented by the Department of Health (DOH), aims to protect
children and communities from vaccine-preventable diseases by
providing free immunizations to eligible individuals. The EPI offers
vaccines against diseases such as measles, polio, tuberculosis,
diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, hepatitis B, and others.

Senior Citizen Health Programs - These programs are often

administered by the Department of Social Welfare and
Development (DSWD) and the Department of Health (DOH), in
coordination with LGUs and local health offices.

Family Planning and Reproductive Health Services - Family

planning and reproductive health services are provided by the
Department of Health (DOH), local health offices, and non-
governmental organizations (NGOs) specializing in reproductive
health and family planning.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
Disaster Response and Emergency Healthcare Services -
Disaster response and emergency healthcare services are
coordinated by various government agencies such as the National
Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the
Department of Health (DOH), and the Philippine Red Cross,
among others.
Health Financing Assistance Programs - Health financing
assistance programs, including subsidies and financial assistance
for healthcare services, are typically administered by local
government units (LGUs), the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes
Office (PCSO), and other government agencies.
Maternal and Child Health Programs - Maternal and child health
programs, including prenatal care, childbirth services, postnatal
care, and child health services, are implemented by LGUs, DOH,
and partner organizations such as non-governmental
organizations (NGOs) and international agencies like UNICEF and
WHO.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services - Substance abuse
prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services, as well as
mental health promotion and treatment programs, are provided
by the Department of Health (DOH), specialized treatment
centers, and mental health facilities.

AGENCIES
Department of Health (DOH) - The principal health agency in the
Philippines. It is responsible for ensuring access to basic public
health services to all Filipinos through the provision of quality
health care and regulation of providers of health goods and
services.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
PhilHealth - A government-owned company, oversees public
healthcare in the Philippines. Although Philhealth covers some
medical treatments and expenses, such as inpatient care and
nonemergency procedures, it does not cover all medical
treatments and costs.
The Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health
Care (PITAHC) - is a government-owned and controlled
corporation attached to the Department of Health (DOH) which
was created in December 7, 1997. Advocates for the development
and use of traditional and alternative health-care in the country.
PITAHC was created with the objective of improving the quality
and delivery of health care services to Filipinos by integrating
traditional and alternative health care into the national health
care delivery system.
Bureau of Local Health Development (BLHD) - Provides technical
leadership on local health systems for equitable and quality health
care through the development of policies, frameworks, standards,
guidelines, models, capacity and capability-building and strategic
alliances.
National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) - Provides
responsive and comprehensive mental health care.
Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) - Controls
infectious and tropical diseases of public health importance
locally and globally through multidisciplinary research.
Philippine Health Facilities Regulatory Board (PHFRB) - The
PHFRB regulates and licenses healthcare facilities in the
Philippines, including hospitals, clinics, and laboratories. It ensures
that these facilities meet minimum standards for safety, quality of
care, and operational efficiency.
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
National Nutrition Council (NNC) - The NNC is responsible for
coordinating and implementing nutrition policies and programs in
the Philippines. It addresses malnutrition, promotes proper nutrition
practices, and advocates for policies that support food security
and nutritional well-being.

LAWS/MANDATES
Republic Act No. 11223 - Universal Health Care (UHC) Law in
2019, allowing all Filipinos, including Overseas Filipino Workers
(OFWs), access to healthcare services under the government’s
health insurance program (PhilHealth).
Republic Act No. 7875, as amended by Republic Act No. 10606 -
Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Act of 1995:
This law establishes PhilHealth, the national health insurance
program of the Philippines, which aims to provide affordable and
accessible healthcare services for all Filipinos.
Republic Act No. 10606 (National Health Insurance Act of 2013) -
This law further strengthens and expands the coverage of
PhilHealth, ensuring that more Filipinos have access to healthcare
services.
Republic Act No. 4226 (Hospital Licensure Act) - This law
regulates the establishment, operation, and maintenance of
hospitals in the Philippines, ensuring that they meet certain
standards of quality and safety.
Republic Act No. 9439 (Patient's Rights Act) - This law outlines the
rights of patients in healthcare settings, including hospitals, such as
the right to informed consent, confidentiality, and quality
healthcare services.
Republic Act No. 747 - “An Act to regulate the fees to be charged
against patients in Government hospitals and charity clinics,
classifying patients according to their financial condition,”
 HEALTH/HOSPITAL
Population and family planning may be considered as a separate
field for social work considering the material and man- power
resources which are concentrated in this line at the present time.
However, for our present discussion we shall include it in the health
field.

Population and family planning activities are today being integrated

into many social welfare programs in the country. This is true of
medical social services in hospitals, whose social workers engage in
family planning work whenever it is necessary. However, there are
also social workers who are employed in some agencies and
organizations which have for their main thrust the development and
promotion of population and family planning programs. These
workers' functions may include involvement in the formulation of
policies, administration/management of the agency or a unit of the
agency such as training, supervision of agency and field staff, and
direct service as members of family planning clinic teams which
engage in family planning information, education, motivation,
counseling and the like.

We shall also include in this field social work practice in mental

health. In other countries like the United States, mental health is listed
as a separate field because it is a major, perhaps even a priority
concern which has facilitated the development of a form of social
work practice which many practitioners find attractive (ie.,
therapeutic or clinical practice, with a psychiatric team, or sometimes
private practice).