
On 13 January 2025, the Standards Bureau of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) visited the Preda Foundation and met with its president, Francis B. Bermido Jr, and vice president, Fr. Shay Cullen, to discuss ways to improve the registration, licensing, and accreditation processes of social welfare and development agencies (SWDAs). Atty. Megan Therese Manahan, director of the Standards Bureau, headed the DSWD delegation together with Fr. Arnold Abelardo, national president of the Area-based Standards Network (ABSNet) and director of non-government organization Ako ang Saklay, Inc., and representatives from the Standards Capacity Building Group.


The visit is also part of DSWD’s routine inspection to assess Preda’s operations, care programs, and services for vulnerable individuals, particularly children who are survivors of abuse and exploitation. It ensures that Preda complies with national standards for child welfare, safety, and well-being. The Standards Bureau is DSWD’s regulatory arm.
Mr. Bermido and Fr Shay discussed Preda’s on-going initiatives, the impact of their programs, and challenges faced in their efforts to help children and other marginalized individuals. The inspection also provided an opportunity for both organizations to exchange best practices and explore opportunities for further collaboration to enhance their services.
PREDA Foundation expressed its appreciation for the DSWD’s commitment to ensuring that child protection programs across the country meet the highest standards. The Foundation is grateful for the support and guidance of the DSWD in helping them continue its mission of providing a safe and nurturing environment for children and families in need.
The visit concluded with the DSWD team affirming their support for the foundation’s work and encouraging continued cooperation to ensure that vulnerable sectors, particularly children, are protected from exploitation and abuse.
The PREDA Foundation is a non-government organization dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of children and individuals who are victims of sexual abuse, trafficking, and exploitation. The organization provides a safe haven, legal support, education, and skills training for survivors to help them rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.
Write-up and photos by Jazriel Ignacio.