Written by: Ronie Bautista
As the song goes, “Miles away… When times were tough, and you were down and out… Who was there by your side?” Listening to this, I’m reminded of my incredible journey bringing SEA, Inc.’s emblem, the Black Swan, to the Municipality of Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. This endeavor wasn’t just about a partnership; it was about making the impossible possible. The fruits of our labor will soon be realized on May 15, 2024, with the formal Seal of Partnership between SEA, Inc. and Sibagat.
On April 11, 2024, a pivotal meeting took place. Presided over by SEA, Inc. staff, the meeting included the Local Chief Executive of Sibagat, Hon. Thelma G. Lamanilao, MD, and legislative council members Hon. Francisco P. Garlit and Hon. Gines G. Coranes, along with Municipal Clerk Ms. Ailleen Miot. The proposed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was discussed and subsequently approved without objections. This MOA lays the foundation for implementing the IPAT-SIAD Project, marking SEA, Inc.’s first local government unit (LGU) partnership in Mindanao.
The Black Swan: A Symbol of Possibility
The emblem of SEA, Inc., the Black Swan, represents an impossible dream turned reality. Historically, black swans were thought not to exist; all swans were presumed white until 1697 when Dutch explorers led by Willem de Vlamingh discovered black swans in Western Australia. This discovery transformed the term “Black Swan” into a symbol of disproven impossibilities. Similarly, SEA, Inc.’s presence in Mindanao is a testament to overcoming challenges and achieving what once seemed impossible.
Bringing Inclusive and Sustainable Development to Sibagat
SEA, Inc. is committed to activating IPAT-SIAD (Integrated Participatory Accountability and Transparency Towards Sustainable Integrated Area Development) through a solution ecosystems approach. This method mobilizes resources, networks, and experiences from civil society, government, and business to address specific societal challenges.
Introducing this approach to local governments increases their capacity to absorb and utilize existing development funds and access new ones, channeling them into sustainable development programs and projects. These initiatives will significantly benefit the residents of towns implementing IPAT-SIAD.
SEA, Inc. has already initiated the early phases of IPAT-SIAD 1.0, demonstrating that this approach enhances the developmental impact of local government and its civil society and business partners. The first town to implement IPAT-SIAD in the country was New Lucena, Iloilo, and SEA Inc’s innovative approach promises a brighter future for many more communities.
The Legal Mandate for Local Governments
The role of LGUs in advancing social welfare and development is enshrined in Sections 4 and 5 of the Philippine Constitution, which state:
“The prime duty of the Government is to serve and protect the people. The maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty, and property, and the promotion of the general welfare are essential for the enjoyment by all the people of the blessings of democracy.”
Section 16 of the Local Government Code further elaborates on the responsibilities of LGUs, emphasizing the promotion of general welfare, including cultural preservation, health, safety, ecological balance, scientific and technological advancement, economic prosperity, social justice, and public order.
A New Era for Sibagat
Through this partnership, LGU Sibagat is tasked with bringing IPAT-SIAD to its constituents, with SEA, Inc. providing the necessary support and resources. This collaboration not only aligns with constitutional and legal mandates but also heralds a new era of inclusive and sustainable development for the municipality.
SEA, Inc.’s journey to Mindanao symbolizes the power of belief and determination. The Black Swan emblem stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that what seems impossible today can become a reality tomorrow. As we continue to work towards a brighter future for Sibagat and beyond, we are reminded of the song’s message: despite the miles and challenges, true partners will always be by our side, making the journey worthwhile.
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