NAPC, KONSENSYA TI VIGAN CONDUCT ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION

(Atty. Ever Molina, Konsensya Ti Vigan president welcomes the participants.)

 The National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) in cooperation with the Konsensya Ti Vigan, held a Roundtable Discussion on the Role of Civil Society Organizations in Local Development Planning last Septemeber 24, 2012 at the Max's restaurant in City of Vigan, Ilocos Sur. The event was attended by Non-Government Organizations from different sectors such as students, media practitioers, civic organizations, interest clubs, professional groups, and the agricultural sector.

(Dr. Ferdie Lamarca of UNP shares his views on development planning.)

The First Round Table Discussion  was a breakthrough in terms of enlightening the local NGOs. The activity was an opportunity for the members of the civil society to engage in a healthy discussion among equals.

Development Planning in general and within the context of the Local Government Code (R.A. 7160) was ably explained by the facilitators. Focus was also given on Transparency, Accountability, Participation, and Predictability, the essential requisites of Good Governance. During the discussion, Civil Society Organizations were encouraged to apply for accreditation by local government units so that they can become members of local special bodies like the Local Development Council, the planning arm of a local government unit, and can have the chance to constructively engage the local government in charting the destiny of the community.

During the discussions, it was observed that students and members of youth organizations were very dynamic in their participation. Their inputs reflect the youth’s idealism. It was clear to them of their role as catalysts for change.

(Mr. Amado Valdez, President , Vigan City Press Corps asks questions during the forum)

After the discussions, it was resolved that there is a need to raise  the level of  awareness of  civil society organizations of Vigan City and empower them to actively participate in an honest-to-goodness bottom-up planning and budgeting.  The holding of a round table discussion on the role of civil society organizations is a significant step towards achieving this goal.