April 11-12, 2023 | The Department of the Interior and Local Government IX and the Local Government Unit of Vincenzo Sagun, Zamboanga del Sur organized an enriching two-day program on CSO Capacity Development and People’s Council Formation for the CSOs in Vincenzo Sagun. The event was attended by representatives from various Civil Society Organizations as well as LGU officials and staff.

The objective was to amplify the competencies of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and establish a people’s council that would foster open governance, answerability, and community involvement in local administration.

Three (3) proficient DILG personnel, LGOO II Cherry Mae Iway, DMO III Febie L. Marquez, and CDO II Jasten Dwight B. Desierto, spearheaded the program as they imparted their knowledge and expertise on a myriad of subjects, ranging from the principles of good governance to the intricacies of citizen participation and the establishment and roles of people’s councils.

The program aimed to strengthen the competencies of CSOs in Vincenzo Sagun to effectively engage and partake in local governance. It encompassed crucial topics, including the crucial role of CSOs in advocating for transparency and accountability, the formulation of local policies, and the establishment of effective communication channels with local government officials.

On a different note, the establishment of the People’s Council aimed to establish a mechanism for citizens to actively participate in local governance. The council will operate as a consultative body for the LGU, offering invaluable feedback and recommendations on various community concerns and issues. Moreover, the council will serve as a sentinel, overseeing the alignment of the LGU’s initiatives with the community’s needs and aspirations.

The CSO Capacity Development Program and People’s Council Formation for LGU Vincenzo Sagun is a laudable endeavor by DILG, aimed at fostering collaborative governance and fortifying the alliance between the government and the civil society. The efficacy of this program is anticipated to create a profound effect on the LGU’s growth and administration, with CSOs and the people’s council furnishing vital insights and appraisal for the LGU’s protocols and initiatives.