On October 4, 2024, at the Bololacao basketball court in New Lucena, 24 dedicated barangay officials and CSO members gathered for an engaging and insightful training session on parliamentary procedure. Though fewer than the target of 30 participants, the group’s energy and eagerness to learn were undeniable. The training, a collaboration between SEA Inc. and the local barangay, aimed to equip these leaders with the tools to conduct meetings with structure, fairness, and transparency.

Welcoming Message and Introductions

The event began with a prayer led by Barangay Secretary Noemie, followed by a warm welcome from Punong Barangay (PB) Monares. In his message, he expressed gratitude for the participants’ cooperation, stating, “I am thankful for your cooperation in this activity. I hope we will listen attentively to our resource person because this is very important for us as barangay leaders.”

Participants introduced themselves and shared their roles within their respective barangays. Ms. Angelic then introduced the resource person for the session, Ma’am Aleanne Jessa Moncada, whose expertise in parliamentary procedure set the tone for an informative and interactive session.

The Basics of Parliamentary Procedure

Ma’am Moncada kicked off the training by defining parliamentary procedure as the simplest, most democratic way to conduct meetings. This system ensures that all voices are heard, decisions are made fairly, and misunderstandings are avoided during sessions. Ma’am Moncada emphasized that parliamentary procedure is essential in any organization, especially in barangay governance, where structured decision-making is critical.

One key takeaway was the principle that all barangay council members (Kagawads) must have an equal voice during meetings. Discussions are focused on one agenda item at a time, and only one person speaks at a time to maintain order. The presiding officer, typically the PB, recognizes who may speak, ensuring proper courtesy is observed.

Ma’am Moncada reminded the group, “Always remember that before our name, we are ‘Honorable,’ and we must always act with that honor.” She also highlighted the importance of protecting minority opinions, ensuring that even in a majority-rule system, dissenting views are heard and considered.

Key Questions Raised and Clarified

The participants were eager to clarify specific situations they encountered in their barangay meetings. For example, Barangay Secretary Noemie asked whether it was permissible to share copies of minutes with schools that request them. Ma’am Moncada affirmed that it is acceptable as long as the purpose of the request is clear.

Kagawad Monahan asked if the SK Chairman could vote in the event of a tie. Ma’am Moncada explained that yes, the SK Chairman is a member of the barangay council and has voting rights, though they operate within their structure with SK Kagawads.

PB Monares inquired about what to do when participants speak without being recognized. Ma’am Moncada advised that it depends on the barangay’s Internal Rules and Regulations (IRR). She added that all improper interactions should be addressed according to the IRR.

Another question came from Kagawad Solinap, who asked if the barangay could amend its IRR. Ma’am Moncada confirmed that amendments are possible but must follow proper guidelines, be supported by meeting minutes, and be formalized through a resolution.

Takeaways and Reflections

By the end of the session, participants expressed gratitude for the valuable lessons learned. Kagawad Jennifer Torre from Janipaan Oeste said, “We are very thankful to learn about parliamentary procedure, and now we know that we can amend our IRR by making sure to follow the guidelines.”

Kagawad Karen Laguardia added, “I will share this knowledge with my co-BLGU members, and thank you for giving us additional skills.”

Kagawad Elvalyn praised the impact of the training, stating, “Because of SEA, we now know how to make resolutions and ordinances and the proper way of conducting meetings through parliamentary procedure.”

Ensuring Sustainability and Future Plans

This training marks a significant step forward in enhancing the efficiency and fairness of barangay governance in New Lucena. The participants not only gained essential skills but also a renewed sense of responsibility as community leaders. By mastering parliamentary procedure, they are now better equipped to conduct meetings that are orderly, transparent, and democratic.

Moving forward, SEA Inc. plans to continue supporting barangays with additional governance training, focusing on creating sustainable practices that strengthen the relationship between local officials and their communities. Regular refresher courses on parliamentary procedure and hands-on workshops for crafting resolutions and ordinances are on the horizon, ensuring that these leaders continue to grow in their roles.

With empowered barangay officials at the helm, the future of governance in New Lucena looks brighter, more accountable, and more inclusive.

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