In Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, over 40 passionate representatives from 27 civil society organizations recently came together for a workshop that was anything but ordinary. Led by SEA staff under the guidance of Ms. Avha Hilario and spearheaded alongside CSO Desk Officer Ms. Ailene Arquelles Miot, the strategic planning session became a space for reflection, collaboration, and inspiration.

The methodology? Appreciative Inquiry—a strengths-based approach that invites participants to explore collective successes, uncover synergies, and dream boldly about the future. In a room buzzing with experience and ideas, stakeholders discovered a simple yet profound truth: effective impact begins with thoughtful planning. Many admitted that their organizations often leap into initiatives without pausing to craft a clear vision or mission. One participant captured the sentiment perfectly:

“We have learned so much in this workshop, something we can bring back to our organizations. We realized we’ve forgotten the importance of planning before doing the plan.”

Through this shared awakening, participants collaboratively drafted a mission and vision that reflected both individual and collective values. Unity, clarity, and renewed focus weren’t just abstract concepts—they became tangible, actionable outcomes of the session.

The workshop also set sights on a bigger goal: the formation of a People’s Council—a body that would ensure Sibagat’s citizens have a genuine voice in municipal development plans. As Ms. Miot emphasized, while the Vice Mayor, Mayor, and Department of the Interior and Local Government advocate for inclusive mechanisms, Sibagat needs a council empowered by and reflective of the people’s voices. The commitment was clear: this is more than bureaucracy; it’s about real representation, accountability, and participatory governance.

But the day wasn’t just about vision statements and frameworks. Participants left energized with a deeper understanding of intentional, strengths-centered strategy-making—a mindset they pledged to embed in their organizations moving forward. It wasn’t merely planning for planning’s sake; it was planning with purpose, with impact, and with people at the center.

This workshop did more than teach new tools—it reawakened purpose, affirmed commitment, and sparked a collective movement toward inclusive governance in Sibagat. In a world where civic engagement often feels fragmented, this gathering proved that when diverse voices unite, guided by clarity and shared values, communities don’t just plan—they transform.