The six CSOs from New Lucena didn’t just attend a training on November 21, 2025—they stepped up, leveled up, and strengthened their role in local governance through the Capacity Development Program for CSOs by DILG. Indi lang ini basta seminar; isa ini ka commitment to better service, better systems, and better communities.

Mr. Jigger Labergue set the tone by reminding everyone that good governance stands firmly on three essential pillars: transparency, accountability, and participation. When these pillars work together, development becomes real—hindi drawing, hindi plano lang, kundi totoo nga progreso. And in Iloilo Province, they’ve seen firsthand how communities grow stronger when people are involved, informed, and empowered.

The CSOs also dove into lessons on devolved functions, regulatory powers, and their vital role in Project Monitoring and Evaluation. Meaning?

They are not extras in the governance story—they are partners, watchdogs, and catalysts ensuring projects genuinely reach the people they’re meant to serve.

To ground everything in purpose, Section 16—the General Welfare Clause—reminded them of the heart of LGU work:
To promote the welfare of all.

A simple but powerful reminder that every meeting, every signature, every project exists because people deserve quality services and better lives.

Understanding the executive and legislative powers under Sections 444, 446, and 447 also helped the group see the clear roles of the Sanggunian and the Executive. Kay kung klaro ang papel sang tanan, mas smooth ang dalagan sang governance—hindi “Sino bala dapat mag-decide sini?” kundi “Let’s work together and get this done.”

Then came Mr. Raymundo Palanog’s session on LDC Operations, where the CSOs finally saw where they fit in the bigger picture. They understood how they collaborate with the LDC, the Local Chief Executive, the LPDO, department heads, and the Sanggunian across planning, implementation, and monitoring.

In short, they’re not spectators—they’re co-pilots in shaping development.

Today’s discussions weren’t passive lectures—they were interactive, enlightening, and empowering. The CSOs left the room more informed, more confident, and more ready to engage meaningfully in building a better New Lucena.

So here’s to stronger CSOs, stronger partnerships, and stronger communities.

Madamo gid nga salamat—and let’s continue championing people-centered development!