April 03-04, 2023 | The Department of the Interior and Local Government IX collaborated with LGU La Libertad to conduct an enriching two-day event on CSO Capacity Development and Formation of People’s Council.

The objective of this event was to elevate the efficiency of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Local Special Bodies (LSBs) and encourage their dynamic involvement in the decision-making processes of local governance.

The affair was graced by the presence of twenty (20) CSOs and was proficiently handled by the DILG IX – SLGP Team.

The Municipal Mayor, MLGOO, and Provincial Focal Person also made an appearance, manifesting their support to the endeavor.

Mayor Liza M. Mejias and MLGOO Octavios Bajamunde extended their warm greetings, while CDO II Jasten Dwight B. Desierto commenced the activity by outlining the event’s objectives and briefing the attendees on what to expect. The event comprised a diverse range of modules, each of which addressed critical themes concerning the development of CSO capacities.

The modules, which delved into empowering CSOs, developing leadership skills, and implementing effective communication strategies, were skillfully conducted by resource persons from DILG IX, namely, CDO II May Anne B. Pelenio, LGOO II Caress Haema Ilagan, and CDO II Jasten Dwight B. Desierto.

An important feature of the event was the establishment of the People’s Council, which was introduced by CDO II Desierto. The People’s Council serves as a platform for CSOs to take an active part in local governance by providing their inputs, feedback, and suggestions to the LGU.

The initiative to develop the capacity of CSOs and establish a People’s Council proved to be a triumph in elevating the efficacy of CSOs in LSBs. This collaborative effort between the DILG IX and LGU La Libertad was driven by the aim to foster good governance and sustainable progress in the local community.