True governance is not just about holding office; it is about sharing power.

In Barangay General Delgado, the concept of empowered governance took center stage during a comprehensive orientation on Participatory Planning and the Barangay Development Council (BDC). The session transformed the municipal hall into a hub of collaboration, uniting the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) with the vital heartbeat of the community—Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).

The Gathering: A United Front

The event demonstrated that an empowered community is an inclusive one. Diverse sectors sat side-by-side, including the AKGENDEL Women, Farmers, ERPATs, Volunteers, and Senior Citizens. Their presence signaled a shift from passive observation to active coalition building.

To ensure that every voice was equipped to contribute effectively, a pre-test examination was administered. This was a crucial step in empowering participants, validating their current knowledge while identifying areas where technical understanding of the BDC could be deepened.

The Framework Empowerment Through Knowledge

The orientation provided the tools necessary for genuine empowerment. By bridging the gap between technical policy and community needs, the session ensured that the attendees were not just present, but prepared.

By the end of the activity, participants expressed a profound appreciation for the learnings gained. They realized that knowledge of the BDC is the key to unlocking their potential as co-authors of the barangay’s development story.

Partners in Progress

The defining sentiment of the day was a realization of ownership. Participants emphasized that their value lies not just in attending meetings, but in actively engaging in the BDC and other Local Special Bodies.

This serves as a powerful testament to the barangay’s direction: a move away from top-down management toward a model of empowered governance where the community is a co-equal partner in progress.