Published on: April 19, 2024 | Written by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay – April 17, 2024 – The Good Governance Summit held on April 17, 2024, at Badsbrotel Suites in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, was a momentous gathering aimed at reinforcing the commitment to good governance principles among public servants. The event, organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) IX, brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, representatives from National Government Agencies (NGAs) and partner Learning Resource Institutes (LRIs), to discuss and promote excellence in governance. 

Governor Dulce Ann K. Hofer of Zamboanga Sibugay opened the summit with a welcoming speech, stressing the significance of these gatherings in promoting collaboration, exchanging best practices, and cultivating a culture of excellence among public officials. She underscored the tangible benefits of good governance, noting its ability to enhance livelihoods, and praised the DILG for leading efforts such as the summit. 

DILG IX Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil, CESO III, emphasized the vital role of good governance, stressing that it is not a luxury but a crucial requirement for the successful development and operation of communities. He highlighted that good governance is the cornerstone of thriving communities, fair societies, and sustainable development. 

USEC Marlo L. Iringan, CESO III, DILG Undersecretary for Local Government, delivered the keynote address, reiterating the importance of good governance in guaranteeing the effectiveness and efficiency of public service delivery. He highlighted the vital role of local government units (LGUs) in advancing good governance and urged them to adhere to the principles of transparency, accountability, and citizen participation. 

The summit included discussions on capacity building, financial administration, disaster preparedness, and gender-responsive governance, among other topics. Speakers like Alvin Rex M. Lucero, Jose Ruel D. Trobanos, Atty. David Oliver C. Kong, CPA, Sheryl Lee L. Cañales, Prof. Rosalyn R. Echem, and Atty. Kornessa L. Paras shared their knowledge and perspectives on these critical subjects. 

Local leaders, took part in a session led by Mabuhay, Zamboanga Sibugay Municipal Mayor, Hon. Edreluisa O. Caloñge, where they renewed their commitment to advancing good governance in their LGUs.

The summit also offered an opportunity for representatives from different LGUs to present successful governance initiatives. Hon. Barry Baguio of Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte, represented by EnP Femalyn M. Teleron, MPA, and Hon. Junaflor S. Cerilles of Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur, emphasized the critical role of strong leadership, political will, and effective collaboration in attaining good governance.  

The summit ended with a speech from Mario A. Baterna, the Provincial Director of DILG Zamboanga Sibugay, where he urged participants to reflect on the summit’s teachings. He called on everyone to embrace and promote good governance principles, fostering a collective drive for excellence in governance. 

The Good Governance Summit demonstrated the steadfast dedication of DILG IX and its collaborators to advancing good governance and improving public service in the area.