Micheal Casey of the Area-Based Standards Network (ABSNet) in Region X welcomes members from non-government organizations and local government units to the forum. ABSNet is a group of social services providers who are registered, accredited, and licensed with the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Dir. Manuel Borres, Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office X, says that the Area-Based Standards Network (ABSNet) plays a critical role in ensuring social welfare and development programs are within the legal standards and operating procedures set by the Department of Social Welfare and Development.