Agreement strengthens Philippines–Singapore cooperation on social welfare, family development, and knowledge exchange initiatives
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) of the Philippines and the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) of Singapore signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 4 March 2026 in Makati City to strengthen cooperation on social protection and family development programmes. The agreement was signed by Rex Gatchalian and Masagos Zulkifli.
Image by Philippines Embassy in Singapore
The MOU aims to enhance bilateral collaboration in areas including family and child development, particularly during the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, as well as programmes supporting persons with disabilities, women’s empowerment initiatives, and knowledge exchange in social welfare practices.
Under the agreement, both countries committed to strengthening institutional linkages between relevant government agencies and organisations involved in social development and social work practices. The cooperation framework includes exchange programmes involving public officers, experts, researchers, and consultants to facilitate the sharing of expertise and best practices.
The DSWD and MSF also agreed to organise institutional visits to facilities, centres, and organisations in both countries that serve families, children, and persons with disabilities. These visits aim to promote networking, capacity-building, and deeper cooperation in delivering social protection services.
The signing of the memorandum reaffirmed the shared commitment of the Philippines and Singapore to strengthening social development cooperation and fostering knowledge exchange to support inclusive and sustainable welfare programmes.
Source: Philippines Embassy in Singapore
