PCCED launches Barangay Good Governance Project in Bohol
The Philippine Center for Civic Education and Democracy (PCCED) recently launched its newest project on barangay good governance in the municipality of Jagna, Bohol.
The project, “Promoting Democratic Values in the Barangays of Jagna” is a two-year initiative that aims to provide capacity building for barangay authorities as well as civics and participation training for citizens.
The project also includes the State of Local Democracy Assessment (SoLD) where stakeholders in the municipality can evaluate the quality of local democracy in their area by celebrating its successes as well as crafting a reform agenda to address some of its democratic deficits.
The launch was attended by municipal officials headed by Mayor Fortunato Abrenilla, the Punong Barangays, Barangay Secretaries, members of the Lupon Tagapamayapa, representatives from Civil Society Organizations and the Department of Education – Jagna District composed of the school heads and social studies teachers.
In his remarks, Mayor Abrenilla underscored his administration’s commitment to strengthening citizen participation in governance.
“Democracy is best achieved when people participate in governance,” Mayor Abrenilla explained, “I am thankful to PCCED, Agencia Vasca and Zabalketa for partnering with us on this noble endeavor.”
Reynald Trillana, PCCED Executive Director, explained that the project will help develop a “culture of shared governance between the local authorities and the people.” He explained that while it is important for government officials to ensure transparency, it is also crucial for people to acquire the “knowledge, skills and habits” of participating in governance.
After the launch, PCCED program manager Raiza Cusi and Project Officer Myttee Palo facilitated small worskhops with the different sectors in order to solicit their inputs in the different project components.
“Promoting Democratic Values in the Barangays of Jagna” is a two-year (2) project in partnership with Zabalketa, Gobierno Vasca, the Local Government Unit of Jagna and the Department of Education – Bohol Division.
