Strengthening Civil Society Partnerships
BACOLOD - The Department of the Interior and Local Government Negros Island Region recently conducted the first day of its capacity-building activity for civil society organization desk officers. Bringing together delegates from across the region, the program focused on fostering meaningful collaboration and robust partnerships between local government units and civil societies. Regional Director Lailyn A. Ortiz emphasized during her opening remarks that true governance requires genuine consultation and transparency between public offices and citizens. She challenged the participants to look beyond routine administrative duties and act as true bridges connecting communities with government agencies.
Expert-Led Learning Sessions
The comprehensive learning program featured presentations from seasoned local government experts covering essential policy frameworks and operational guidelines. Assistant Division Chief Ethyl Mae Parades-Vasquez walked attendees through the core rationale of the initiative and the practical utility of the CSO Illustrative Guidebook. Regional Legal Officer Atty. Neil Andrew L. Yanson expounded on existing legal policies governing civil society involvement in public affairs. Additionally, Bacolod City Director Christian M. Naganaynay and LGCDD Chief Maria Fatima R. Daiz discussed local planning, budgeting, and effective relationship management.
Fostering Collaborative Community Engagement
The day concluded with an interactive open forum where desk officers shared field experiences and addressed operational challenges concerning civil society engagement. Organizers stressed that these dedicated officers function far beyond simple coordinators by acting as vital facilitators and catalysts for community development. Such capacity-building initiatives ensure that grassroots participation remains deeply embedded in regional administrative frameworks. Through sustained dialogue, local offices continue empowering public servants to drive inclusive and transparent governance across the region.
