On March 19, 2024, a significant step towards the formation of a People’s Council was taken in New Lucena, facilitated by the Solution Ecosystems Activator (SEA), Inc., under the Integrated Participatory Accountable Transparency towards Sustainable Integrated Area Development (IPAT-SIAD) program. 

In partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU), specifically through the efforts of CSO Desk Officer Mr. Rodulfo Asesor, the meeting was a key part of this ongoing initiative to institutionalize people’s participation in governance. The LGU’s active role in organizing and inviting target Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) was a strong indication of their commitment to making the People’s Council a reality.

The meeting saw a diverse group of 34 participants, representing various CSOs in the municipality. They were briefed on DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2021-054, which outlines the creation of a People’s Council within LGUs. This body will serve as a platform for CSOs to have a voice in local governance, ensuring their concerns and ideas are considered in decision-making processes. Participants were also informed about the documentation needed to qualify for the People’s Council, emphasizing the importance of submitting accurate and complete documents to the CSO Desk Officer for review.

One of the key moments of the meeting was Vice Mayor Hon. Isabelo Acollador’s remarks, highlighting the value of these gatherings. He stressed that the People’s Council is a critical mechanism for giving citizens a platform to participate in the town’s governance. Should New Lucena succeed in forming this council, it would stand out as the only municipality in Iloilo’s 6th District—and possibly the whole of Region 6—to establish such a body, making it a pioneer in empowering local CSOs.

The meeting was also graced by Sir Willy Labaro, chairman of the Collective IPAT-SIAD Team (CIT), who expressed his optimism. He hopes that the People’s Council would soon be operational, providing CSOs with representation in the Sangguniang Bayan (municipal council) and allowing them to directly influence local legislation concerning programs, projects, and services. This would strengthen CSOs and their role in community development.

After the meeting, it was agreed that SEA, Inc. and the CSO Desk Officer would prepare a template for a letter of intent, which would be signed by each CSO’s president or authorized representative. Several CSO leaders personally submitted their documentation to the SEA, Inc. staff and the CSO Desk Officer during the meeting, showing their enthusiasm for being part of the council. Additionally, they encouraged other organizations to join the initiative, signaling a growing movement toward broader representation. The SB Secretary, Ms. Philine Simora, also conveyed her full support and is looking forward to further steps in implementing the People’s Council.

Conclusion and Learnings

This meeting was an important milestone in the process of empowering citizens through the People’s Council. The active participation of both the LGU and CSOs demonstrates the strong local commitment to more inclusive governance. As the initiative progresses, future steps will involve formalizing the council and ensuring that all interested CSOs meet the requirements to participate. This council will provide a voice for CSOs, fostering greater accountability, transparency, and collaboration in local government.

Future Plans

The next phase will focus on the formal establishment of the People’s Council, ensuring that all qualified CSOs are accredited. There will likely be additional meetings to fine-tune the process and address any challenges. In the long term, this council is expected to serve as a model for other municipalities, encouraging wider participation in governance throughout the region.

In the words of Vice Mayor Acollador, “The People’s Council is not just a goal, but a bridge for our community’s voices to be heard.” Indeed, it is a promising step toward a more participatory and transparent local government.