COTABATO CITY (May 3, 2024) – In a concerted effort to celebrate and preserve the trailblazing initiatives driving local governance across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG-BARMM) recently orchestrated a two-day workshop. The event, titled the Compendium Development Workshop, was conducted on April 29-30, 2024, at the Paragon Hotel and Restaurant in Cotabato City, drawing together a diverse array of stakeholders from various Local Government Units (LGUs).
MILG-BARMM organized the workshop in collaboration with the Support to Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA) in line with the thrust of the Bangsamoro region towards self-governance and sustainable development.
The gathering aimed to empower LGU focal persons with the skills and insights needed to meticulously document and safeguard local governance innovations.
Under the theme of “Preserving Our Legacy, Inspiring Future Generations,” the workshop commenced with a series of invigorating speeches, notably featuring MILG Operations Management Services Director Fausiah R. Abdula. Director Abdula set the tone for the event, underlining the imperative of showcasing BARMM’s most innovative practices and advancements in local governance.
Samrah Karon-Patadon, the SUBATRA representative and Project Development Expert, lent her expertise to the proceedings, elucidating the paramount importance of documenting these transformative initiatives. With a focus on legacy preservation and knowledge transfer, Karon-Patadon emphasized how such documentation could serve as a catalyst for positive change, both within BARMM and beyond.
The resource speaker, Mohammad Abqary Ali Alon and Consultant for SUBATRA, guided participants through a series of practical exercises designed to hone their documentation skills. From crafting compelling narratives to mastering the art of storytelling and photography, Alon’s hands-on approach equipped attendees with the tools needed to effectively capture and convey the essence of local governance innovations.
Reflecting on the workshop’s significance, MILG Minister Atty. Sha Elijah B. Dumama-Alba underscored its role in inspiring excellence and innovation across BARMM’s LGUs.
She reiterated the ministry’s unwavering commitment to nurturing a culture of excellence in local governance, one grounded in transparency, accountability, and community engagement.
“The Compendium Development Workshop marks a significant milestone in our journey towards showcasing the best of BARMM’s local governance innovations,” said MILG Minister Atty. Sha Elijah B Dumama-Alba.
Added that, “Through the documentation of these transformative practices, we aim to inspire and guide fellow LGUs, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation across the region.”
The participants had the opportunity to delve into the success stories of LGUs awarded under the LGU Grant Assistance for Innovative Practices (LGAIP) from 2020-2023. These pioneering initiatives, ranging from sustainable livelihood programs to youth governance initiatives and environmental conservation efforts, served as shining examples of BARMM’s commitment to progress and prosperity.
The Local Government Supervision Division Chief Johaina J. Abdullah thanked the participants for their unwavering dedication and enthusiasm. She reiterated the workshop’s role in shaping a brighter future for BARMM.
Organizers looked forward that the skills and knowledge the participants gained from the workshop would be of great help in the operation of their respective LGU. (Sahara A. Saban, BMN/BangsamoroToday)
