Published on: June 18, 2023 | Written By: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) IX, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) IX and the Local Government Academy (LGA), successfully facilitated the first batch of the Regional Training of Trainers on Participatory Barangay Development Planning from June 5 to 9, 2023. The event aimed to enhance the capacity of barangay local government units (BLGUs) in driving local development efforts.

The training event aligned seamlessly with the requirements set forth in Section 106 and Section 384 of the Local Government Code of 1991, underscoring the vital significance of barangay LGUs in crafting all-encompassing, multi-faceted development blueprints and harmonizing progress-oriented endeavors within their local communities. By endowing participants with indispensable insights and proficiencies, the training aimed to embolden them to carry out these duties with utmost efficacy and proficiency.

The core focus of the training session revolved around harnessing the power of Participatory Situation Analysis tools, acting as essential companions in the intricate dance of barangay development planning. Participants eagerly immersed themselves in hands-on exercises, honing their facilitation skills to create an environment where community engagement and inclusivity in decision-making flourished.

The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including DILG Field Officers from provinces of Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga del Norte, Barangay Development Plan (BDP) Focal Persons, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinators, and several DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS Program Area Coordinators. The varied backgrounds and experiences of the participants enriched the training, fostering a vibrant and collaborative learning environment.

The training showcased distinguished individuals who generously shared their wealth of knowledge and unique perspectives on the art of participatory planning and development. The esteemed presence of DSWD Regional Director Riduan Hadjimuddin and DILG IX Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil, represented by the Assistant Regional Director Carmelo Enrique B. Libot, officially opening the activity with their inspiring messages. Their impassioned speeches reverberated through the venue, emphasizing the vital role of empowering barangay LGUs as the catalysts for sustainable grassroots development.

Abegail T. Luna-Timtim, the knowledgeable Training Specialist IV-KALAHI, offered participants a comprehensive glimpse into the event, skillfully leading them through the program and ensuring a seamless facilitation process. The training sessions were elevated by the expertise and valuable insights shared by resource persons Alvin Rex M. Lucero, Lizzette Regine R. Boltiador, Diana Gay G. Batua, Art Louie Bangcale, and Teresita Catalbas, who generously imparted their practical strategies, enriching the learning experience for all.

As the event drew to a close, Provincial Director Moh. Taha S. Arakama delivered a closing message, expressing gratitude to all the participants for their active engagement and commitment to enhancing barangay development planning in the region. He emphasized the importance of putting the newfound knowledge and skills into practice to effect positive change in their respective communities.

The Regional Training of Trainers on Participatory Barangay Development Planning served as a momentous leap in empowering barangay LGUs to spearhead local development endeavors. Armed with essential skills and insights, the participants are now equipped to nurture community-led progress and usher in lasting transformation within their own barangays. DILG’s unwavering dedication to bolstering the capabilities of LGUs underscores their role as influential agents of advancement and prosperity, igniting grassroots growth.