What is PMS? A Comprehensive Overview to the Presidential Management Staff

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The Presidential Management Staff (PMS) of the Philippines is a crucial agency closely affiliated with Malacañang, tasked with overseeing the development and formulation of projects and policies within the Office of the President. 

While a Secretary heads the PMS, the support of Cabinet Secretaries, the Chief of Staff, and the Appointments Secretary is integral to its functioning. 

Under the supervision of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President, the PMS collaborates with the Office of the Appointments Secretary and the newly established Events Management Cluster. 

As of December 2, 2022, the leadership of the Presidential Management Staff is held by Elaine Masukat, succeeding Zenaida Angping, who resigned from the position.

In this article, we will dive into the rich history of the Presidential Management Staff, exploring its evolution and pivotal role in Philippine governance. 

Additionally, we’ll highlight the job opportunities it offers and provide insights into the organization’s functions. 

So, keep on reading, scroll down to see the latest jobs, and discover the diverse career possibilities within this influential government agency.

Job Opportunities:

Explore exciting career opportunities with the Presidential Management Staff (PMS). Discover a variety of roles crucial to supporting the President and ensuring effective coordination within the Philippine government.

Elevate your career by exploring the latest job openings below or considering positions with other government agencies.

Each role allows you to contribute uniquely to the PMS’s mission of providing essential support to the President, managing affairs, and facilitating the development process.

Click on the job title to gain insights into the responsibilities of each role and learn about the application process, bringing you one step closer to your next career move.

Whether you possess extensive knowledge of governance or aspire to contribute to the efficient functioning of the government, the PMS offers opportunities for career growth and meaningful contributions.

Seize the opportunity today by exploring the diverse job openings available with the Presidential Management Staff.

Your future in supporting the highest levels of government in the Philippines could be just a click away!

History of PMS:

The history of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) in the Philippines is deeply rooted in the Program Implementation Agency (PIA), which came into existence on August 24, 1962, during the administration of President Diosdado Macapagal. 

Established to function as the technical staff for the implementation of socio-economic projects, the PIA operated under the leadership of Assistant Executive Secretary Sixto K. Roxas and Armand Fabella, who was appointed as Director-General.

The PIA’s primary responsibilities included reporting directly to the President, engaging in socio-economic planning, formulating policy recommendations, establishing priorities, and overseeing the allocation of public funds, manpower resources, materials, and equipment. 

Its overarching goal was to ensure the timely and successful completion of projects falling under the purview of the Office of the President.

However, significant changes occurred on February 1, 1966, when President Ferdinand E. Marcos dissolved the PIA and introduced the Presidential Economic Staff (PES) through Executive Order No. 8. 

The PES not only inherited the functions of the PIA but also took on the additional role of establishing connections with international financial institutions to facilitate foreign credit and assistance. 

Placido Mapa and Apolinario Orosa were appointed to lead the PES, translating the economic targets of the National Economic Council into tangible projects.

Further organizational adjustments transpired on July 29, 1970, with the issuance of Executive Order No. 250 by President Marcos. 

This executive order led to the creation of the Development Management Staff (DMS) under the Office of the President, headquartered at the Arlegui Guest House. 

The DMS served as the principal information and staff resource for Malacañang, focusing on the monitoring, coordination, and control of development programs at the execution stage.

The year 1972 marked a critical juncture with the implementation of an Internal Reorganization Plan. As a result, the PES was absorbed by the National Economic and Development Authority, while the DMS retained its status as an attached agency of the Office of the President. 

Executive Secretary Alejandro Melchor assumed leadership of the DMS and initiated the hiring of 50 young men and women, including Colonel Luis M. Mirasol, appointed as the managing director.

During this period, the DMS operated out of the New Executive Office Building (San Miguel Building) and played a pivotal role in producing regular status reports for 21 priority programs, including those related to land reform, housing, education, and rural electrification. These reports served as crucial briefings for Cabinet meetings.

The culmination of these historical developments occurred on July 8, 1976, with the issuance of Presidential Decree No. 955, which reorganized the Office of the President and officially renamed the DMS as the Presidential Management Staff (PMS). 

The PMS retained its role as the key coordinating body for development programs, acting as the information hub for Malacañang on matters of monitoring, coordinating, and controlling various initiatives.

Fast forward to June 30, 2022, and the narrative takes another turn as President Bongbong Marcos enacted significant changes. 

The Presidential Broadcast Staff – Radio Television Malacañang, previously under the Presidential Communications Group, was placed under the direct supervision and control of the PMS. 

Additionally, the Chief of the Presidential Management Staff assumed all powers and functions of the Cabinet Secretary after the latter’s office was abolished by virtue of Executive Order No. 1, s. 2022. 

These contemporary developments reflect the ongoing evolution and adaptability of the Presidential Management Staff in responding to the changing needs and priorities of the Philippine government.

The PMS in the Current Millennium:

In the contemporary era, the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) has emerged as a crucial entity, playing a pivotal role in assisting the President and the Cabinet in establishing essential support mechanisms. 

Within this millennium, the PMS has been instrumental in facilitating the decision-making processes within the Office of the President. 

The expertise of the PMS extends to providing comprehensive staff support to the President, particularly in matters of policy formulation and management.

The scope of the PMS’s involvement spans a broad spectrum of national concerns, covering economic, social, and political dimensions. 

Notably, the PMS has been actively engaged in addressing issues related to social and economic reforms, poverty alleviation, people empowerment, labor, education, welfare and development, infrastructure, agriculture, trade, industry, tourism, environment, energy, and the vital task of energizing the bureaucracy. 

In essence, the Presidential Management Staff serves as a multifaceted support system, ensuring that the President is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of governance. 

By operating at the intersection of diverse national concerns, the PMS contributes significantly to the overarching goal of fostering holistic development and effective governance in the Philippines. 

Its commitment to addressing a myriad of challenges reflects the adaptability and responsiveness required in the ever-evolving landscape of the nation’s political, economic, and social spheres.

Mandate of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS):

The Presidential Management Staff (PMS) holds a critical position as the primary government agency directly accountable to the Office of the President. 

Its mandate revolves around offering indispensable staff assistance in the comprehensive management of the development process by the President. 

Essentially, the Presidential Management Staff is tasked with supporting and facilitating the President’s engagement in holistic oversight and strategic direction in steering the nation’s development initiatives. 

This mandate highlights the pivotal role that the Presidential Management Staff plays in ensuring effective and coordinated governance at the highest level, aligning its efforts with the President’s vision for the country’s development.

Functions:

Powers and Functions of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) According to Executive Order No. 130, s. 1987:

To effectively carry out its mandate, the PMS is bestowed with a range of powers and functions as outlined in Executive Order No. 130, s. 1987:

Provide Technical Assistance and Advice:

  • Offer direct technical assistance and advice to the President in the overall management of the development process.

Analyze and Monitor Programs and Projects:

  • Analyze and monitor national programs and projects to ensure their effectiveness and alignment with development goals.

Formulate and Implement Information Systems:

  • Develop and implement development management information systems, including the enhancement of the Office of the President’s capabilities in computer and communications technology for more efficient information and decision management support.

Conduct Analysis and Evaluation:

  • Conduct ongoing analysis and evaluation of economic, social, and political trends to provide insights for decision-making.

Study Methods for Effective Execution:

  • Conduct studies on methods for the effective and efficient execution of development programs and projects.

Review and Analyze Policies:

  • Analyze and evaluate proposed and existing policies affecting development.

Centralized Feedback Mechanism:

  • Provide a centralized feedback mechanism on the implementation of national government projects.

Identify Bottlenecks and Formulate Solutions:

  • Identify bottlenecks and potential problem areas in project implementation, formulating solutions or corrective measures.

Translate Presidential Perspective into Action:

  • Translate the President’s perspective, policies, and plans on development issues into strategic action programs/projects.

Assist in Coordination Function:

  • Assist in the coordination function for the President regarding the implementation of various development programs of the Government.

Implement Initial Action on Critical Areas:

  • Implement initial action on critical areas, such as the National Reconciliation and Development Program, where the President wishes to lead in piloting development initiatives.

Provide Direct Feedback Mechanism:

  • Provide a direct feedback mechanism between the people and the Office of the President.

Exercise Direct Control and Supervision:

  • Exercise direct control and supervision over organizations, offices, agencies, programs, and projects aligned/assigned/transferred to the Office.

Organize and Supervise Task Forces:

  • Organize and supervise task forces in response to instructions from the President.

Formulate and Implement Government Policies:

  • Formulate, implement, and supervise government policies, plans, and programs related to the technical support and development management requirements of the President.

Exercise Management Supervision and Control:

  • Exercise management supervision and control over all bureaus, agencies, corporations, centers, councils, committees placed under the control of the former Office of Development Management.

Establish Policies and Implement Programs:

  • Establish policies and implement programs for the efficient management and operations of the PMS, undertaking research and management measures of efficiency and economy.

Exercise Other Functions and Powers:

  • Exercise such other functions and powers as may be provided by law.

Organizational Structure:

The organizational structure of the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) is designed to facilitate effective coordination and support for the President and the Office of the President. 

Leading this structure is the PMS Head, holding the rank of secretary, with direct oversight of operations and resources. 

Assisting the PMS Head is the Deputy Head, ranked as undersecretary, contributing to overall management. 

The Management Team (MANTEAM), consisting of all PMS officials and unit heads, functions as a collaborative platform for decision-making.

The PMS comprises four specialized functional operations units, each tailored to provide targeted technical inputs to the President and the Office of the President. 

These units are organized by sector to address specific presidential concerns and ensure efficient coordination among relevant departments, agencies, and bodies. The units are:

  1. Development Management Staff Office (DMSO):
  • Responsible for comprehensive development planning and execution.
  1. Office for Regional Concerns (ORC):
  • Focuses on regional issues for holistic development.
  1. Office for the Facilitation of Presidential Assistance (OFPA):
  • Streamlines presidential assistance initiatives.
  1. ORC Field Units (ORC-FUs):
  • Ensures decentralized coordination and responsiveness to regional needs.

Additionally, these units are tasked with monitoring issues and developments, with a specific focus on those impacting the Presidency and national interest. 

They play a pivotal role in translating Presidential insights and perspectives into operational terms, providing alternative opinions and recommendations on policy and program issues, and conducting policy reviews within their sectoral jurisdiction. 

A dedicated Speechwriting Group addresses the speech requirements of the President.

To support these units and various PMS programs and projects, there are integral support units such as the Administrative and Management Office (ADMO), Conference Management Office (CMO), Editorial and Visual Design Office (EVIO), Legal Office (LO), and Information Technology Office (ITO). 

Each of these units contributes to the seamless functioning of the PMS, enhancing its capability to deliver efficient and responsive staff work for the Presidency.

Embracing the benefits of computer technology, all PMS units operate with modern IT tools. The PMS is committed to keeping abreast of fast-changing trends in IT to continually enhance its capacity to provide optimal support to the highest levels of the Philippine government.

In terms of manpower attributes, the PMS boasts a multi-disciplinary staff that enables adaptability and responsiveness to diverse tasks. Approximately 60% of its staff is engaged in managerial, supervisory, or technical functions. 

The academic background of PMS officials and employees reflects a high level of education, with around 65% holding degrees in fields such as public/business administration, economics, behavioral and social sciences, engineering, computer education, accounting, agriculture-related courses, law, education, and organizational/mass communication. 

Notably, the composition of PMS staff is relatively young, with close to 70% falling between the ages of 20 and 40 years old. This demographic diversity contributes to the organization’s dynamic and forward-thinking approach to its responsibilities.

Explore the organization’s character through its Vision, Mission, and Core Values. Gain insight into the purpose, aspirations, and guiding principles that shape the path towards excellence. 

Uncover the commitment to achieving a shared vision, fulfilling a mission that resonates with stakeholders, and upholding the values that define the organizational identity. 

Mission

“To assist the Presidency in uplifting the lives of all Filipinos through the facilitation of Presidential priorities in accordance with the highest standards of Complete Staff Work and service continuity.”

Vision

“A pillar of excellence and a resilient learning institution empowered by highly reliable public servants dedicated to serving the Presidency towards the betterment of the Filipino people.”

Goals

  1. Societal Goal – Sustainable Growth and Development towards Poverty Reduction in Multiple Dimensions;
  1. Sectoral Goal – Good Governance; and
  1. Organizational Outcome – Responsive staff support for the Presidency and facilitation work on Presidential priorities and directives.

Core Values

  1. Drive for Excellence and Professionalism. By having no less than the Presidency as its direct client, the PMS provides only the highest standards of professionalism and excellence in its work.
  1. Flexible, Dynamic, and Extensive Reach. The PMS work is anchored on the needs of the Presidency. It is always on call and, if necessary, operates on a 24/7 basis to deliver its services effectively. The PMS has ground-based networks nationwide to monitor and evaluate governmental sectors and anticipate critical issues and developments.
  1. Integrity and Passion for Anonymity. In all its work, the PMS has put premium on integrity and anonymity. The PMS works quietly and performs tasks according to the day-to-day and long-term needs of the Presidency.

Organizational Performance Indicator Framework:

PMS

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) stands as a pivotal force in the Philippine government, weaving together the threads of vision, mission, and core values to guide its collective endeavors. 

The organization’s rich history, spanning from its inception as the Program Implementation Agency to its evolution into the dynamic entity it is today, reflects a steadfast commitment to effective governance, development, and support for the highest levels of leadership.

As we navigate the intricate layers of the PMS’s structure, from the dedicated functional operations units to the support teams fostering seamless collaboration, it becomes evident that the organization offers a diverse range of opportunities for individuals seeking meaningful careers in public service. 

Whether you are drawn to comprehensive development planning, regional concerns, presidential assistance facilitation, or other specialized fields, the PMS beckons with roles that allow you to contribute significantly to the nation’s progress.

For individuals eager to contribute to an organization where visionaries thrive, missions are accomplished, and core values drive collective success, exploring the career opportunities within is encouraged. 

Take the next step in your professional journey by checking out the latest job openings. Discover how you can play an essential role in shaping the future of governance in the Philippines. 

Your chance to make a meaningful impact might be just a click away. Consider being part of a community where your skills align with purpose, and aspirations converge with a shared vision for a better tomorrow.

Join in this collective commitment to meaningful change.

Disclaimer:

The Philippine Go does not collect fees and is not a hiring agency, nor is it related to any hiring agency for employment abroad. 

All information contained here is solely for informational purposes and rightfully belongs to its rightful owner. 

Attached in the last section of the content are references for further verification, if needed. Read more

Reference:

  1. Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Presidential Management Staff (Philippines). In Wikipedia. Retrieved 2023, from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presidential_Management_Staff_(Philippines)]

2. Presidential Management Staff. (n.d.). Vision, Mission, and Values. Retrieved 2023, from [https://pms.gov.ph/index.php/aboutus/vmvalues]

3. Presidential Management Staff. (n.d.). Office of the Presidential Assistant for Foreign Affairs. Retrieved 2023, from [https://pms.gov.ph/index.php/aboutus/opifsubmenu]