The Local Government Academy (LGA), in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 5, spearheaded a crucial Stakeholder Consultation on Developing an Institutional Capacity Development Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA). Held on February 5, 2025, at Ninongs Hotel, Legazpi City, the event brought together key actors, particularly the Local Research Institutes (LRIs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) within Bicol Region, to contribute to this vital strategic initiative.

The consultation focused on developing an “Institutional Capacity Development Strategy,” a key component (Output 5) of the DRREALL-TA project. This project, implemented by Expertise France in collaboration with the Government of the Philippines, and led by the DILG, is designed to bolster local government capabilities in DRRM and CCA. The strategy will directly contribute to the upcoming Mid-Term Review of the “Enhancement of Local Government’s Capacity on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) & Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation (CCAM) Program: Operation L!STO.”

The active participation of LRIs and CSOs proved invaluable to the consultation. Their on-the-ground experience, technical expertise, and community-level insights enriched the discussions and contributed significantly to shaping a practical and effective strategy. Specifically, representatives from Camarines Norte State College, People’s Disaster Risk Reduction Network, Divine Word College of Legazpi, Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Coastal CORE, Inc., Socio-Pastoral Action Center Foundation, Inc., Divine Word College of Legazpi, Bicol University – JMRIGD, Sorsogon State University, and Caritas-Caceres, Inc. (Naga) shared their perspectives and recommendations.