On October 6, 2024, the bustling community hall of Barangay Jelicuon Este in New Lucena became a haven for learning, reflection, and open dialogue. The Teenage Pregnancy Symposium, aimed at addressing the growing concern of adolescent pregnancies, brought together an inspired mix of 30 participants, exceeding its target of 25. With SK council members, volunteers, youth, and parents in attendance, the event was a powerful reminder that education and community involvement are key to shaping healthier futures. A Community Conversation Begins The symposium opened with Kagawad Diosdado Mejaro Jr. leading a heartfelt prayer, followed by SK Chairman Hon. Richard S.… Read more: Lessons from the Teenage Pregnancy Symposium in Barangay Jelicuon Este

On November 13, 2024, the humble yet vibrant barangay of Bita-og Gaja in New Lucena, Iloilo, became a cradle of innovation and inspiration. The Entrepreneurship Development Seminar, organized for the newly formed Bita-og Gaja Women Association (BIGWA), transformed an ordinary Wednesday into a launching pad for entrepreneurial aspirations. Despite an initial target of 15 participants, 22 eager attendees filled the venue, embodying the spirit of curiosity and community. The seminar, facilitated by the dynamic Ms. Angela Betita and graced by the resourceful Junior Business Counselor from DTI-New Lucena, Ms. Joella Opina, proved to be a masterclass in turning aspirations into… Read more: Entrepreneurship Development Seminar Sparks New Beginnings

On November 12, 2024, the humble Barangay Hall of Cabugao was alive with energy and purpose as 25 individuals—farmers, DA technicians, and focal persons—gathered for an Organic Farming Orientation. What began as a simple gathering quickly turned into an inspiring showcase of nature’s potential and humanity’s responsibility to nurture it. The event opened with a heartfelt prayer by Ma’am Melanie Pueyo, President of the Cabugao Farmers Association, setting a tone of gratitude and hope. Punong Barangay Imelda Cabucos followed with a poignant message: “We are very lucky to have this kind of activity because all of us depend on the… Read more: The Power of Organic Farming in Barangay Cabugao

Meet Jovelyn Flores, an SK Kagawad in Barangay Cabugao, New Lucena, who embodies the spirit of resilience and growth. As a young mother, a student, and a leader, Jovelyn has found herself juggling more than most could imagine. Yet, her commitment to her community, her family, and her education has made her a true inspiration to those around her. Being a mom and a student is no easy feat, especially for someone who also serves as a youth leader in her barangay. “It’s a big challenge,” Jovelyn admits with a laugh. “But I know that if I can handle this,… Read more: Juggling Motherhood, Studies, and Leadership with a Heart Full of Hope

Liza Cotimo, Secretary of the Calumbuyan Women’s Association (CWA) and a Barangay Health Worker (BHW) of Barangay Calumbuyan, New Lucena, Iloilo, is one of the many unsung heroes in her community. Juggling her family life with her leadership roles, Liza represents the heart and soul of what it means to give back—whether through her work in health, her leadership in empowering local women, or her unshakable belief in community support. It wasn’t always easy for Liza to step into leadership, but thanks to the support and training she received through the IPAT-SIAD initiative, she was able to cultivate the confidence… Read more: Liza Cotimo: Leading with Confidence, Compassion, and Community Spirit

Ms. Simar Simora together with the Parents of Brgy. Damires. Parenting, like life itself, is a journey filled with joys, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. On October 28, 2024, the Barangay Hall of Damires, New Lucena, was alive with the hopeful energy of 24 solo parents who gathered for the Responsible Parenthood Orientation. The event, organized by the Provincial Population Office and SEA, Inc., wasn’t just another workshop; it was a heartwarming reminder of the transformative power of guidance, love, and responsibility. A Foundation of Faith and Family The day began with an inspiring welcome message from Hon.… Read more: Building Bridges at Home: The Power of Responsible Parenthood

Brgy. Sec Catherine Lacdo-o of Brgy. Bita-og Gaja is actively participating in General Assembly. Regarding shaping the future of barangays in New Lucena, SEA Inc.’s IPAT-SIAD (Integrated Participatory Accountability and Transparency Towards Sustainable Integrated Area Development) approach takes center stage. With barangays like Janipa-an Oeste, Cabugao, Bololacao, Jelicuon Este, Bita-og Gaja, Calumbuyan, Bilidan, Cabilauan, Damires, and Badiang reaping the benefits, this process is a testament to the power of collaboration and community-driven planning. Strategic Planning with Purpose The journey begins with a dynamic partnership between the barangay council, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and the community, orchestrated by SEA Inc.’s IPAT-SIAD… Read more: Empowering Barangays through IPAT-SIAD: A Blueprint for Strategic Development

Reysa Jagunap, the Municipal Budget Officer of New Lucena, has always been a pillar of the local government unit (LGU). Like many, Reysa was initially uncertain about the impact of the Integrated Participatory Accountability and Transparency for Sustainable Integrated Area Development (IPAT-SIAD) program. But as she took part in its capacitation activities—and later the transformative Inner Conditioning Workshop (ICW) in Bulacan—everything began to fall into place. At first, Reysa admits, she wasn’t sure how IPAT-SIAD’s focus on good governance would truly impact her or her community. “Sa una, wala ko gid masyado kaintindi kon paano ini mag-apekto sa akon kag… Read more: Reysa Jagunap: Planting Seeds of Self-Awareness and Leadership in New Lucena

The participants from New Lucena were eager to learn welding. Welding is often seen as a profession of sparks and steel, yet beneath the arcs of light lies the power to transform not just metal, but lives. On November 6, 2024, the Basic Welding Skills and Fabrication Training at the New Lucena Polytechnic College became a testament to this transformative power. It was more than a skills workshop—it was an inspiring forge for hope and opportunity. The day began with prayers and introductions, but what stood out was Ms. Rosanna Constantino’s heartfelt message. Representing SEA, Inc., she shared how initiatives… Read more: Sparks of Progress: Welding Dreams into Reality in New Lucena

When people think of local government units (LGUs), they often picture stacks of paperwork, meetings, and the occasional community project. What they rarely imagine is the heart behind the system—the people who make the gears turn. For Dinah Malcontento, head of the Human Resource Department in New Lucena, the heart of governance became more evident with the arrival of SEA Inc. and its IPAT-SIAD program. Dinah smiles when she talks about it. “Before IPAT-SIAD, we were doing our jobs, sure—but something was missing. Then this program came along, and it felt like a breath of fresh air,” she shares. The… Read more: Finding Heart in Governance: How IPAT-SIAD Transformed New Lucena’s LGU Through Inner Conditioning

Ms. Simar P. Simora together with the Parents of Brgy. Jelicuon. On November 12, 2024, in Barangay Jelicuon Este, New Lucena, Iloilo, a diverse group of 30 participants gathered for a day of learning, sharing, and reflection on responsible parenthood.  As one participant aptly put it, “Parenting is like farming – it requires patience, care, and a lot of nurturing to grow good results.” It was a reminder that, just as crops need time and attention, so do the relationships and children we nurture. The Setting of the Stage: A Strong Foundation The session opened with Ms. Angela Betita facilitating… Read more: Responsible Parenthood Orientation: A Heartfelt and Eye-Opening Experience

Hon. Brgy Captain Monares together with the Barangay Council during the awarding ceremony. It’s not every day that a barangay gets to wear the prestigious badge of being a National Passer of the Seal of Good Local Governance for Barangay (SGLGB). For Barangay Bololacao, this achievement is no small feat, and much of their success can be attributed to the steady guidance and capacitation provided by the IPAT-SIAD program. To qualify for the SGLGB, a barangay needs to meet a host of tough requirements. Think of it as a triathlon: first, you have to ace all three core areas: financial… Read more: How IPAT-SIAD Helped Barangay Bololacao Shine as a National Passer of the SGLGB

Senior Community Facilitator- Municipal Cordinator of New Lucena, Rosanna Pandes- Constantino As Senior Community Facilitator at SEA Inc., Rosanna Pandes-Constantino watched The Social Dilemma with both a critical eye and a heart deeply rooted in community work. Her insights into the documentary’s exploration of social media’s impact on mental health, behavior, and relationships reflect her role as an advocate for meaningful connections and empowerment. Watching The Social Dilemma was a wake-up call—a realization of the high stakes in our digital engagement and the exploitation of human attention for profit. It’s clear to Rosanna that social media, while connecting us, also… Read more: Navigating the Social Dilemma with Mindfulness and Purpose

Brgy. Kagawads in Brgy. Buyo in a Scorecard Workshop On November 21, 2024, in Barangay Buyo, Sta. Barbara, blossomed into a day of inspiration, collaboration, and discovery. The bustling energy of 40 participants—farmers, barangay health workers, local government unit representatives, and civil society members—filled the venue with hope and determination. They came together not just as attendees but as partners in crafting a shared vision for their community through the Scorecard Workshop. The program opened with a serene prayer and meditation led by Senior Community Facilitator Sir Gideon Palmejar, setting the tone for a day of introspection and action. Hon.… Read more: Empowering Communities: Insights from the Barangay Buyo Scorecard Workshop

Life-changing experiences often come from introspection and learning how to navigate challenges with grace and resilience. During the recent Inner Conditioning Workshop (ICW), participants shared heartfelt reflections brimming with lessons, gratitude, and inspiration. Here are some of their stories: Secretary Lacdo-o “Focus on nurturing your growth, not the noise of others.” “This week, I realized that dwelling on others’ actions only saps my energy. I now choose to cherish the love and time I share with my family. Life is too short not to focus on what truly matters—blessings, love, and growth.” Ma’am Divina Gratitude unlocks creative ways to meet… Read more: Inner Transformation: Stories of Growth, Gratitude, and Grace

The members of Bita-og Gaja Women Association in action for Agri-Based Product Processing. The sound of oil sizzling, the smell of freshly fried chips, and the laughter of empowered women filled the air as the Bita-og Gaja Women Association rolled up their sleeves for an exciting day of learning and livelihood development on November 19, 2024. Hosted in the barangay of Bita-og Gaja, this training on Agri-Based Product Processing marked a transformative moment for 25 eager participants who are determined to turn local produce into profit. Setting the Stage The day began with a solemn prayer led by Ms. Webina… Read more: Crunch Time: Women of Bita-og Gaja Master the Art of Vegetable Chips

Angela Betita, a dedicated Community Facilitator, and Anne Loren, passionate Volunteer of SEA Inc., working hand in hand to empower communities and drive sustainable solutions. Sometimes, the most eye-opening moments come from staring at the screen that’s been staring back at us for years. After watching The Social Dilemma (2020), Angela and Anne Loren found themselves reflecting on their digital lives—and let’s just say, the results were more shocking than a 3 a.m. TikTok binge. Angela: Mindfulness in a Digital World “Algorithms are designed to keep us hooked—and boy, was I hooked.” Angela describes The Social Dilemma as a mirror… Read more: Breaking the Scroll Spell: Angela and Anne Loren Reflect on The Social Dilemma

Mr. Rudy Assesor, CSO Desk Officer, Municipality of New Lucena with fellow CSOs. In local governance, collaboration is key. The People’s Council, mandated under DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2021-054, is a vital body of civil society organization (CSO) representatives that ensures active community participation in decision-making. This council is not just a policy requirement—it’s a cornerstone for transparency, inclusivity, and sustainability in governance. What is a People’s Council? According to Section 5.7 of the DILG Memorandum Circular, the People’s Council is composed of CSOs recognized or accredited by the LGU. It serves as a platform for citizens to engage in… Read more: Why LGUs Need a People’s Council: Driving Good Governance through Collaboration