Published On: May 16, 2023 | By: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

May 06, 2023 | The Department of the Interior and Local Government IX seized a momentous occasion with the attendance of Secretary of the Interior and Local Government (SILG), Atty. Benjamin “Benhur” C. Abalos Jr. to host an interfacing session with Local Chief Executives (LCEs) and a press conference held at the Social Hall of Western Mindanao State University as part of the Regional Launch of the Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) Program. 

The occasion provided a noteworthy opportunity for LCEs and media affiliates to tackle critical matters and apprehensions pertinent to their corresponding local government units and media channels that demand the SILG’s consideration.

This assembly presented a fertile ground for fruitful discourse and uninhibited communication, fostering the interchange of innovative concepts and remedies for urgent concerns affecting the region. 

During the interactive session, the LCEs seized the opportunity to personally articulate their concerns and bring forth significant matters to the SILG who attentively absorbed their words and provided unwavering assurance of the SILG’s wholehearted commitment to addressing their needs. The SILG wholeheartedly acknowledged the unwavering dedication of the government in bolstering their noble endeavors.  

Concurrently, the press conference served as an avenue for media allies to present intellectually stimulating inquiries and seek elucidation on pertinent aspects pertaining to local governance. With a steadfast commitment to transparency, the SILG delivered comprehensive and meticulous responses, guaranteeing that the media possessed precise and verifiable information to distribute amongst the public. 

The event exemplified the unwavering dedication of DILG IX in nurturing synergistic alliances with LCEs and the media, acknowledging their pivotal contributions to the realm of local governance and the dissemination of public information. Through the establishment of a dynamic platform for unfettered dialogue and interaction, DILG IX endeavors to fortify local governance while fostering enhanced comprehension and rapport among government entities, LGUs, and the media.

SILG Atty. Benjamin “Benhur” C. Abalos, Jr. extended his heartfelt appreciation to the attendees for their dynamic involvement and insightful contributions throughout the session. He reiterated the unswerving dedication of the DILG in surmounting the obstacles encountered by the LGUs, emphasizing their resolute partnership in forging ahead together towards a future filled with advancement and prosperity in the region.

The DILG IX’s interfacing session and press conference was a pivotal moment in advancing a governance framework that values inclusivity and responsiveness, guaranteeing that the viewpoints and grievances of local leaders and media partners are heard and resolved with efficacy. As the region moves towards progress, the collective partnership between the DILG and its stakeholders will serve as a catalyst for positive transformation and the betterment of the lives of the people in Zamboanga Peninsula.