In a culture obsessed with outputs, deadlines, and measurable results, it’s easy to dismiss a simple kamustahan as a soft pause—nice, but unnecessary. Yet during the Inner Conditioning Workshop (ICW) Weekly Kamustahan in New Lucena on January 9, 2026, that pause revealed itself as something far more essential. Under the SEA Bayanihan Governance framework—formerly known as IPAT-SIAD—Inner Conditioning proved that asking “How are you, really?” is not a luxury. It is leadership work.

Listening to Divinia, it became clear that not all New Years arrive with fireworks. She shared that she didn’t even feel the New Year because 2025 was weighed down by problems. Still, gratitude remained. ICW gave her the space to name both the hardship and the hope: that 2026 might finally bring the completion of their home on land they can truly call their own. Her story reminds us that for many, progress is not about ambition—it is about security, dignity, and being able to breathe again.

For Rod Laña, 2025 was a year of milestones—passing the board exam, getting a job, staying healthy, and learning hard lessons along the way. But what stood out was not the checklist of achievements; it was his clarity. Through ICW, Rod learned to reflect, not rush. As he looks to 2026, he speaks of new opportunities, healthier work environments, meaningful relationships, and personal well-being. His story shows how inner conditioning turns success into sustainability.

Kagawad Andrea grounded the conversation in stark honesty. She expressed gratitude for one thing above all else: being alive. Surviving the ups and downs of 2025, she now looks forward to a 2026 marked by good health for her children, stronger unity among barangay officials, and a peaceful, clear-headed community. Her reflection quietly challenges our understanding of governance—reminding us that public service begins with personal survival and inner stability.

When Mary Joy Goloran described 2025, she called it a year full of plot twists—unexpected travels, changes, and the difficult decision to let go of some responsibilities. ICW helped her see that letting go is not failure, but discernment. For 2026, she hopes for new experiences, a happier and smoother workplace, a more positive mindset, and deeper trust in God. Her story reflects how inner work allows people to navigate change without losing themselves.

There was a calm depth in Cristy Ceniza’s reflection. She spoke of gratitude for all the blessings and lessons of 2025—both joy and trials. The year taught her endurance, patience, and trust in God’s plan. As she steps into 2026, she carries hope for growth in wisdom, peace of heart, and a deeper faith. Her voice reminded the group that resilience, when rooted in reflection, becomes wisdom rather than exhaustion.

Finally, Manelyn Herbolingo articulated what many felt but could not easily name. She shared how 2025 brought lessons she never expected but deeply needed—learning to keep going despite feeling tired, confused, or discouraged. Through ICW, she found language for self-compassion. 

Looking toward 2026, she hopes for healing, new beginnings, deeper faith, and becoming a kinder, wiser version of herself. Her insight was simple yet powerful: becoming better also means being gentler with oneself.

Taken together, the voices of Divinia, Rod Laña, Kagawad Andrea, Mary Joy Goloran, Cristy Ceniza, and Manelyn Herbolingo reveal why Inner Conditioning should never be treated as a “soft” add-on to governance. The ICW Kamustahan in New Lucena showed that reflective spaces produce grounded workers, self-aware leaders, and communities capable of moving forward without losing their humanity.

In the language of SEA Bayanihan Governance, padayon does not mean pushing forward at all costs. It means moving forward with awareness, gratitude, and shared responsibility. If we want governance that lasts, we must invest not only in systems and strategies, but in the inner lives of the people who carry them.

Sometimes, the most transformative act of leadership begins not with a policy—but with a circle, a pause, and a sincere question:

“Kamusta ka gid?”