In a united effort to strengthen participatory governance, the Provincial Government of Cavite, through the Office of the Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator (OPPDC), in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Cavite, convened Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) for the Joint Organizational Meeting for Local Special Bodies held at the New Provincial Government Center, Trece Martires City on October 9, 2025.
Provincial Administrator Engr. Gilbert V. Gandia warmly welcomed participants, highlighting the indispensable role of CSOs as vital partners in shaping inclusive and responsive local governance. Engr. Lorna R. Leyran, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator, led the introduction of members of the Local Special Bodies, which include the Local Development Council, Local Health Board, Local School Board, and Local Peace and Order Council. She underscored the importance of these bodies as platforms for meaningful collaboration between government and civil society in crafting policies and programs that address community needs.
The meeting featured a series of comprehensive presentations by DILG Cavite officials. LGOO III Niรฑa Norisa C. Maranga discussed the roles and functions of the Local Development Council, followed by LGOO III Maria May M. Ambata, who tackled the Local Health Board, while LGOO II Amiel Dela Rosa elaborated on the functions of the Local School Board. These discussions equipped CSO participants with a deeper understanding of their active role in local governance structures.
Participants then engaged in an action planning session, where CSOs mapped out strategies to strengthen their involvement and ensure their voices are heard in policy-making processes. Concluding the productive activity, DILG Cavite OIC-Provincial Director Marcial A. Juangco delivered an inspiring message, reaffirming the agencyโs commitment to empowering CSOs as key partners in development, transparency, and good governance.
Through the joint initiative, the OPPDC and DILG Cavite continue to build stronger linkages between the government and civil society, paving the way for more transparent, accountable, and people-centered local governance in the Province of Cavite.