DILG XII Regional Director Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero played a significant role in the recent Local Governance Summit held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City last August 22-24, 2024.

With Mahintana Foundation Inc. Executive Director Liza D Hora, Director Mahinay-Sero served as one of the esteemed panelists during Session 5 of the Summit entitled, "Innovative Strategies to Encourage CSO Participation in Local Governance."

This session, sponsored by USAID Philippines Cities for Enhanced Governance and Engagement (USAID-CHANGE) is part of the five breakout sessions discussing various topics on Local Governance such as Smart Infrastructure and Design, Climate and Disaster Resiliency, Health and Safe Communities, and Transparency and People's Participation.

During the session, Director Sero emphasized the critical role that CSOs play in local governance and shared the successful initiatives implemented by DILG Dose to bolster CSO engagement. Highlighting the Department's commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships with CSOs, Director Sero introduced the Department's CSO Academy, an initiative under the Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC), in collaboration with Mahintana Foundation Inc. and the Department of Budget and Management. 

The CSO Academy serves as a platform for capacity-building and knowledge-sharing, equipping CSOs with the skills and tools necessary to participate in local governance processes effectively. Through this initiative, SOCCSKSARGEN has been able to create a more inclusive and participatory local governance landscape, ensuring that the voices of CSOs are heard and considered in the decision-making process.

This is also a response to the growing need for stronger and more proactive involvement of civil society in local governance. 

Director Sero also ensured the Academy's sustainability as the LGRRC finalized the Academy's Operations Manual which establishes the procedures for administration, academic programs, community engagements, and public relations of the Academy. The Manual also provides the functional delineation of the roles and responsibilities of the Executive Board, other CSO Academy members, partners, and stakeholders.

Some 280 participants, including Local Chief Executives (LCEs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), representatives from National Government Agencies (NGAs), and other local government officials attended the said Summit.