Published on: June 16, 2023 | Written By: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon

Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur – In a triumphant display of synergy, the Capacity Development Program for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Zamboanga del Sur’s Local Special Bodies was successfully held from June 06-08, 2023, held in the Provincial Government Complex, Dao, Pagadian City. The activity has a singular mission of amplifying the capacities of CSOs, empowering them to navigate the intricate web of local governance processes. The program’s emphasis was firmly rooted in nurturing their active engagement within the local special bodies and People’s Council, bastions of inclusive governance that thrive on community participation.

The program focused primarily on CSOs engaged in the Provincial Development Council, Local School Board, and Local Health Board, aiming to equip these entities with essential expertise and understanding. The objective was to empower them, enabling active and substantial contributions to local decision-making and policy creation, thereby ensuring the community’s voices and requirements are accurately acknowledged and catered to.

Amidst the program’s unfolding, a vibrant tapestry of resource persons graced the occasion, bringing forth their wisdom and perspectives. Alvin Rex M. Lucero, Febi L. Marquez, May Anne B. Pelenio, Jasten Dwight B. Desierto, Cherry Mae H. Iway, Abdulmoin W. Mohammad, Emma T. Albarico, and Jeofrey A. Gomisiong stood as beacons of expertise, casting a luminous glow upon the participants. Their reservoir of experiences and profound insights served as invaluable compasses guiding and nurturing the eager minds in a fertile atmosphere of knowledge and personal growth.

The program encompassed a diverse array of subjects crucial for CSOs to actively engage in local governance. These involved comprehending the intricate web of local governance structures, employing effective mechanisms to involve the community, formulating strategic plans, managing projects, and honing advocacy and communication skills. Participants enthusiastically immersed themselves in dynamic workshops, collaborative group discussion, and hands-on exercises, enabling them to put theory into action and forge innovative strategies to surmount the hurdles typically encountered by CSOs.

In his concluding address, Board Member Bienvenido Ebarle conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the enthusiastic participants, esteemed resource persons, and diligent organizers, acknowledging their unwavering commitment and active involvement. With great emphasis, he underscored the pivotal role of CSOs in championing governance that is both transparent and accountable, with a strong focus on the well-being of the people of Zamboanga del Sur. Additionally, Board Member Ebarle illuminated the program’s profound significance in cultivating collaborative partnerships between the local government and civil society, painting a vivid picture of a future where empowered communities join forces in a harmonious dance, propelling the province towards unparalleled progress and holistic development.

The conclusion of the Capacity Development Program for CSOs in LSBs of Zamboanga del Sur was a resounding success, as CSOs now possess sharpened abilities, enriched understanding, and expanded connections to actively participate in local governance procedures. This initiative represents a noteworthy stride towards fortifying the pillars of participatory democracy and inclusive governance within the province. Through the empowerment of CSOs, the DILG IX and its collaborators are actively constructing a livelier, responsible, and robust local government that places the well-being of its people at the core.