New Lucena’s CIT Meeting wasn’t just another gathering. It was a showcase of collaboration in action—where updates became opportunities, and discussions turned into direction for a stronger, more participatory community.

Agri-Update: Fresh Harvest, Brighter Future

Ms. Genalyn Fernandez from the Municipal Agriculture Office shared hopeful news: the UPLB vegetable seed production project, supported by LifeBank Foundation, is thriving. With new seed varieties being dispersed to farmers, the town is planting more than crops—it’s planting the promise of food security.

As one farmer quipped after hearing the update:
“When we plant these seeds, we’re not only thinking of the harvest—we’re thinking of our children’s meals tomorrow.”

Big Win for Participation

Hon. Jocelyn Espia proudly announced that the People’s Council Ordinance was approved on its 3rd and final reading last August 27, now up for review by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. For civil society organizations, this is a breakthrough moment—an open door to take their rightful seat at the People’s Council table.

A CSO representative remarked:
“This is history in the making. Finally, the people have a council where their voices can be heard.”

Mark Your Calendars

Looking ahead, the group confirmed the upcoming CIT Strategic Planning, tentatively scheduled for September 19–20, 2025. Two days of strategy, dialogue, and teamwork promise to yield stronger plans and bigger community impact.

Support Local, Grow Local

Another highlight was the shared push to strengthen New Lucena’s homegrown products. By investing in smarter marketing and stronger capacity for CSOs and local entrepreneurs, they aim to bring local products to a wider market.

As one entrepreneur said with pride:
“Every product we make carries a story. With the right support, these stories can reach beyond New Lucena.”

Planting Transformation

By the end of the meeting, it was clear this was more than just talk. The CIT meeting became about planting seeds of change, cultivating citizen participation, and harvesting transformation for New Lucena.

“We’re not just meeting—we’re making the future,” one participant reflected, as the session drew to a close.