The Bicol Local Governance Regional Resource Center – Multi-Stakeholders’ Advisory Council (MSAC) convenes for the Regional Partnership Forum and Meeting, at The Pepperland Hotel, January 19, 2023.

In his welcome message, Regional Director Atty. Arnaldo E. Escober, Jr., CESO V emphasized the shared hope that the strengthened collaboration of the LGRRC-MSAC will empower and enhance the performance of Local Government Units (LGUs), more so increase the number of Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) passers in the Region.

Provincial Learning Research Institutes (LRIs): Bicol University (Albay), Camarines Norte State College (Camarines Norte), University of Nueva Caceres (Camarines Sur), Catanduanes State University (Catanduanes), Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (Masbate), and Bicol University Gubat Campus (Sorsogon) presented the results of their respective Capacity Development Analytics through which performance of component LGUs in different governance areas are reflected, capacity development needs will be identified, and corresponding interventions will be enacted to ensure that the strategic direction of LGUs are aligned to the goals of the province.

Other significant highlights of the forum are the presentation on the Documentation of Best Practices for Local Services Delivery led by LGOO VI Ivy S. Ramirez, Action Planning and Strategic Plan for FY 2023 facilitated by LGOO VI Leonard Champ E. Navarro II, the presentation on Zoning Ordinance by Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) 5 Regional Director Atty. Richard L. Manila and Status Report on Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUP) by DHSUD 5 Division Chief Mary Kathleen Cristy C. Vibar, and the update on the status of Konsulta Implementation by Philhealth 5 Public Affairs Unit 5 Leri L. Ilagan.

Before adjournment, Assistant Regional Director Jhoaden G. Lucero, CESO V expressed her gratitude to everyone present and looks forward to more meaningful joint activities with MSAC partners. With the bolstered collaboration of Bicol LGRRC-MSAC, support of government agencies, and cooperation of LGUs, more SGLG passers in Bicol will be heralded.