As the crisp September breeze swept through the countryside, the CIT officers and SEA, Inc. staff gathered at Pinili Restaurant in New Lucena for another monthly meeting. The group exuded a sense of purpose as they prepared for a discussion-filled day. These meetings are not just about updates; they are about growth, leadership, and, most importantly, sustainability.
The meeting began with a prayer led by Ms. Analiza Pacheco, followed by a welcome message from Engr. John Suelo, CIT Vice Chairman. The start of these gatherings always feels like planting seeds—seeds of collaboration, learning, and action.
Recap from August and September’s Activities
The first agenda item covered key activities from August and September. Ms. Angela Betita update highlighted the volume of work the team had undertaken from Bookkeeping & Financial Literacy Training for CSOs, Inner Conditioning Workshop, Community Scorecard Workshop – Municipal and Barangay Level, Release of Livelihood funds, Computer Literacy @ Brgy. Bololacao, Farmers Reorganization at Brgy. Calumbuyan, PhilHealth Konsulta Orientation, PIME Team Reorganization in Brgy. Badiang and Damires, and lastly, Leadership Training @ Brgy. Calumbuyan. The progress of these activities were relentless.
During the discussion, Sir Rudy Asesor raised concerns about the potential delays in PhilHealth reimbursements to New Lucena, reminding the group of the challenges posed by bureaucracy. In response, Ma’am Rosana Constantino and Ma’am Celna Ramos pointed out that while the orientation focused on beneficiaries, more questions about implementation need to be asked—a lesson in adaptability and critical evaluation of initiatives.
Sustainability in Action: Livelihood Grants and Partnerships
Sustainability remained a key theme throughout the meeting. Discussions on the livelihood grant revealed both successes and challenges. The DATODA president shared that materials had been purchased for the Vendo Car Wash and Mini-Motorcycle Accessories, though weather delays had slowed progress. In contrast, the BADA and BFA presidents explained that they had not yet used their funds, waiting for better conditions to purchase fruit bags and area. This balance between readiness and patience resonated with the principle of sustainability.
A critical issue arose when Sir Rudy pointed out the difficulty of sourcing coconut leaves for packaging ibus (rice cakes). Engr. John’s solution—planting coconut trees now to prevent future shortages—underscored the importance of long-term thinking. “We plant today, so we don’t have to borrow tomorrow,” he said, capturing the essence of sustainable planning.
People’s Council: Elevating Community Voices
One of the most inspiring moments was the discussion about the People’s Council. SB Jocelyn Espia updated the group on the ordinance quoted “An Ordinance providing guidelines for establishing a Peoples Council prescribing its powers and functions and their participation in the local legislative process and local board councils, committees, task forces and similar work groups.” This would grant the council the power to participate in the legislative process. This development isn’t just about having a seat at the table; it’s about creating a platform for the community’s voices to be heard and acted upon. “In governance, it’s not just about what leaders do for the people but what the people can do for themselves through empowerment,” Espia remarked.
The prospect of the People’s Council gaining legislative influence sparked hope that leadership training and community efforts were building toward a future where decisions are made not for the community, but by the community.
Looking Ahead: Learning, Mental Health, and Farmers’ Day
The meeting also covered upcoming activities, including Mental Health Awareness and Stress Management for the Youth, as well as organic farming orientations. There was excitement about these initiatives, particularly the suggestion to invite key figures like Ma’am Reysa Jagunap to the Gender and Development session.
As the conversation progressed, it became clear that one of the biggest challenges was not just organizing activities, but ensuring they reached the right audience. Mr. Rudy Asesor raised concerns about the concentration of recent activities in Brgy. Badiang. Victoria Jucaban, a Barangay Kagawad from Badiang, explained that they had proactively requested these activities, sparking a discussion on how other barangays could take more initiative.
“Leadership is not waiting for opportunities but creating them,” Mr. Asesor wisely noted, his words resonating long after the meeting ended.
Sustainability Through Participation
As the meeting drew to a close, the conversation shifted to sustainability—not only in terms of projects but in terms of participation. The group discussed how to increase involvement and ensure that the momentum they had built did not fade.
The answer, as always, lies in collaboration. “Sustainability is a shared responsibility,” Rosanna Constantino of SEA, Inc. observed. “It’s not just about funding projects; it’s about fostering a mindset that will outlive any single initiative.” Her words served as a reminder that while leaders can plant the seeds, it is the community that must nurture them.
As the meeting wrapped up, reflections on the progress made were inevitable. Gatherings like these are not just meetings; they are milestones on the journey toward building a more sustainable, empowered future for New Lucena.
Quotes of the Day:
“We plant today, so we don’t have to borrow tomorrow.” — Engr. John Suelo
“In governance, it’s not just about what leaders do for the people but what the people can do for themselves.” — SB Jocelyn Espia
“Leadership is not waiting for opportunities but creating them.” — Rudy Assessor
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