Development begins with a vision, and in Barangay Sinai, that vision is rooted in the people themselves. On March 7-8, 2025, community members gathered for the Appreciative Inquiry Workshop—a two-day journey of reflection, dreaming, and planning. Twenty participants from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) came together not just to talk about progress but to actively shape it.

Discovering Strengths, Finding Purpose

The workshop started with a simple but powerful exercise: reflecting on the best aspects of their community. Participants shared stories of resilience, camaraderie, and past achievements that defined Barangay Sinai.

“I never really thought about it before, but our community has overcome so much,” said Christy, one of the attendees. “We’ve always had the strength to move forward.”

This realization was the foundation of the workshop—before dreaming of the future, they needed to acknowledge the strengths they already had.

Dreaming Big, Planning Boldly

With confidence in their collective identity, participants envisioned a future of sustainable livelihoods, good governance, and a strong sense of community. They crafted a shared mission and vision:

Mission: “We, the residents of Brgy. Sinai, Sibagat, envision a sustainable livelihood, exemplary leadership, and an engaged and educated community. Together, we aspire to preserve our culture and environment while ensuring access to social services. With the guidance of Almighty God, we are determined to achieve sustainable development.”

Vision: “We, the residents of Brgy. Sinai, will come together to realize our vision for the advancement of our barangay, with the support and guidance of our BLGU, various agencies, and all community members, to attain sustainable development.”

For many, this was a turning point. “I used to think development was just the government’s job,” Jerome admitted. “Now I see that real progress starts with us.”

From Ideas to Action

On the second day, the community rolled up their sleeves to map out concrete plans. Their Strategic Plan covered key areas:

• Economic: Banana processing training, financial literacy programs, and marketing orientation.
• Governance: Leadership training for barangay officials.
• Education & Health: Computer literacy and wellness programs.
• Social Welfare: First aid training, rescue equipment procurement, and feeding programs.
• Cultural Heritage: Events like Linggo ng Kabataan, Araw ng Sinai, and Baylihan.
• Spiritual Growth: Bible sharing, monthly mass, and moral values sessions.
• Environmental Protection: Tree planting, backyard gardening, and waste management initiatives.

Nely, another participant, summed it up best: “If we don’t participate, we don’t gain knowledge. Without knowledge, we have no power. But when we work together, our barangay prospers.”

A Future in Their Hands

What was the biggest takeaway from the workshop? A shift in mindset. The people of Barangay Sinai now see themselves not as passive recipients of aid but as active architects of their future.

“Opportunities arise from cooperation,” said Punong Barangay Joselito Gam. “Let’s bring our strategic plan to life.”

With the unwavering commitment of its residents and the support of SEA, Barangay Sinai is not just dreaming—it’s building a future of sustainable and inclusive development, one step at a time.