Gov’t restructuring panel orders review of redundant functions

THE Committee on Optimizing the Executive Branch (COEB) has directed agencies to conduct organizational reviews to identify overlapping functions, redundant programs and possible restructuring measures.

In Resolution No. 2026-1, the COEB said it approved Memorandum Circular No. 2026-1, which provided guidance on the conduct of organization review and study (ORS) and the preparation and submission of optimization plans in compliance with the Government Optimization Act.

The review will cover agencies’ mandates, functions, systems, procedures, programs, projects, organizational structures, staffing patterns and manpower complement, including an evaluation of personnel qualifications and performance.

The review is meant to identify “areas of dysfunction and bureaucratic inefficiencies in the sectoral areas covered and government agencies concerned.”

The circular directs the creation of a change management and placement team (CMPT) in each agency to conduct an ORS and assist the department or agency head in the preparation of the optimization plan.

Based on the findings of the ORS, the agencies may provide recommendations such as functional shifts or modifications, organization and staffing actions, and areas for improvement in their optimization plan. 

The optimization plan should cover all of the agency’s bureaus, services, offices, divisions, and units.

The agencies were given until Aug. 29 to submit  their optimization plans to the COEB.

If an agency fails to submit within the prescribed period, the COEB will provide an optimization plan for the agency based on the findings and recommendations from its strategic review and study and submit it to the president.

“The Office of the President may conduct consultations with the departments or agencies concerned, as may be deemed necessary,” it added. — Justine Irish D. Tabile