Written by: Andrea G. Leonar

New Lucena, Iloilo – On October 13, 2023, The Solution Ecosystems Activator (SEA), Inc. in partnership with the Municipal Government Unit of New Lucena facilitated a MOA Signing Ceremony with the six (6) barangays for the Integrated Participatory Accountability Transparency towards Sustainable Integrated Area Development (IPAT SIAD) Program.

The 6 Barangay LGUs were represented by the Punong Barangays together with Kagawad and CSO representatives as witnesses. These barangays are the expansion areas for IPAT-SIAD Program namely:Brgy. Bita-og Gaja, Cabugao, Calumbuyan, Jelicuon Este, Janipa-an Oeste, and Pasil.

Honorable Mayor Liecel M. Seville emphasized in her speech that the IPAT SIAD program have a good effect especially in strengthening and reactivating the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). “With our partnership with IPAT-SIAD program, nakita ko nga ang participation sang civil society is very active”. During general assemblies ara ang representation sang different sectors nga indi nyo makita before”- Mayor Leicel Seville.

The mayor encouraged the barangay leaders to give importance to CSOs and direct communication with the people with clear presentation of agenda before the activity. Mayor added that more people’s participation is good to be able to promote transparency in the barangay and the people will be informed on their responsibilities as well.

Through the IPAT SIAD program she look forward for the increase of people’s participation in the community. Unity or oneness is very important. You need your people to participate in your community. Everything will be successful if there is cooperation. And good governance, aside from transparency and accountability needs participation of the people”.

Lastly, Mayor Seville expressed her gratitude to SEA and LifeBank being the partner of LGU in promoting SIAD and good governance. She is hoping that after 3 years of partnership with SEA, Inc. the barangay will sustain the Program regardless of changes in leadership. She pointed three key elements on the positive impact of the program such as transformation of peoples’ mindset, transparency and accountability in governance and expansion of CSO participation.

Mr. Wilfredo Labaro also encouraged the partner barangays to unite for the success of the program and of the community. He asked the program partners to make the effort and funds of SEA and LifeBank worthy and practice the IPAT-SIAD in their respective communities.