Written by: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon | Photos by: Hanz Jefferson Angelada

In a bid to strengthen local development efforts in conflict-affected communities, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office IX successfully conducted a Planning, Financial, and Strategy Workshop for the 2025 implementation of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP).

Held on April 23, 2025, in Dipolog City and April 25, 2025, in Pagadian City, the two-day initiative gathered key representatives from 39 target barangays in Zamboanga del Norte, 6 barangays in Zamboanga Sibugay, and 5 barangays in Zamboanga del Sur.

The workshops aimed to align local development priorities with national government programs while promoting inclusive, strategic, and peace-oriented approaches to governance. DILG IX emphasized the importance of responsive planning and sound financial management in sustaining peace-building efforts and fostering long-term growth in vulnerable areas.

Participants engaged in comprehensive planning sessions, financial strategy discussions, and capacity-building activities designed to equip them with the necessary tools to implement community-driven initiatives effectively. The workshop also served as a platform for sharing best practices and collaborative strategies among local government units.

The Retooled Community Support Program forms part of the national government’s larger efforts to institutionalize peace and development in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). By enhancing local governance capacity, the RCSP aims to address the root causes of insurgency and foster resilient, self-reliant communities.

DILG IX reiterated its commitment to supporting local government units in their critical role as frontline implementers of the RCSP, ensuring that no community is left behind in the pursuit of peace and progress.