The DILG has always recognized the role of civil society organizations and non-government organizations in advocating and promoting good governance and people’s participation at the local level. In accordance with this advocacy, the late DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo saw the need to call for stronger linkages, not only with CSOs and NGOs but also with faith-based organizations. Hence, the UGNAYAN NG BARANGAY AT SIMBAHAN (UBAS) emerged as another strategy in strengthening partnership between the Church and the government towards the delivery of basic services to the people.

To formally introduce the UBAS project, the DILG V invited all partners and stakeholders in a Forum on August 30, 2014 to discuss the operational framework of the UBAS project and roles and responsibilities of the DILG, the Church and the Barangays.

The Diocese of Legaspi was recommended by Congresswoman Leni Robredo as pilot for the implementation of the UBAS project in Bicol, considering the institutionalized partnership between the Diocese and the different barangays of Albay in the implementation of various Diocesan projects.

Present during the UBAS Forum were Most Reverend Bishop Joel Baylon from the Diocese of Legaspi together Fr. Jovic Lobrigo, Fr. Rex Arjona of the Social Action Center (SAC), Liga Presidents from Albay and representatives from the Laity.

During the Forum, OIC-Director Elouisa Pastor gave the overview on what UBAS is all about. Msgr. Joel Baylon for his part signified strong support to the project. He said that while we adhere to the principle of separation of the Church and the State, the UBAS project is an avenue where the Church and the State can work together to ensure delivery of basic services to the people. Barangays leaders likewise welcomed the UBAS initiative and expressed support to the project.

To prepare for the formal launching of the UBAS project, a Technical Working Group (TWG) was formed composed ofMr. Olivio D. Ramirez, Chief, LGMED/DILG, Fr. Rex Arjona (SAC), Ms. Jo Angeles (DILG Central Office) and oneLiga Representative. The Provincial Convenors Groupwas also formed with– DILG Provincial Director as Chair, SAC as Co-chairand Provincial Liga Representative as member.The Regional Convenors Group was organized as an advisory body withRD Elouisa T. Pastor as Chair, Bishop Joel Baylonas Co-Chair, Regional Liga ng mga Barangay President (Albay) and Fr. Jovic Lobrigo as members.

Earlier before the Forum, Congresswoman Leni Robredo had a brief meeting with DILG regional and provincial officials headed by Director Elouisa Pastor and church officials headed by Msgr. Joel Bailon.

To formalize and seal the partnership between the DILG, the Church and the Barangays, UBAS will be formally launched on 8 November 2014. It will be highlighted by a Covenant signing/Manifestation of Commitment. – (Planning Officer III Ma. Grace Joy U. Tango)