In a bid to drive innovation and build resilient, future-ready communities, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) – Region 10 actively participated in the 3rd Annual Local Governance Congress hosted by the Philippine Local Government Forum (PLGF). With the theme, “Going Smart: Shaping Smart ZamPen Communities of Tomorrow,” the congress focused on the role of SMART technologies in strengthening local governance across Mindanao.
The PLGF event highlighted exemplary practices by local government units (LGUs) in Mindanao that have embraced technology to deliver services efficiently while fostering inclusivity and resilience in their communities. DILG Assistant Secretary for Local Government, Atty. Jesi Howard S. Lanete, underscored the forum’s value in encouraging collaboration among local leaders. “This gathering goes beyond being just a forum; it stands as a testament to the transformative ideas that emerge when we embrace new perspectives, support one another, and share effective practices for the benefit of our communities,” Lanete remarked.
Empowering LGUs with Accessible Information
A notable feature at this year’s PLGF was the DILG10 Kiosk, an information hub designed to empower LGUs by providing a centralized resource on DILG services. The kiosk offers details on capacity-building initiatives, financial assistance, and technical support tailored to each community’s unique needs. The user-friendly, interactive design not only simplifies access to essential information but also fosters greater transparency and accountability, strengthening ties between local leaders and their constituents.
By making this information readily available, the DILG10 Kiosk aims to enhance the administrative capabilities of LGUs in Region 10, ultimately contributing to effective governance and sustainable development at the grassroots level.
Technology for Climate-Resilient Communities
Cagayan de Oro City’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer, Nick A. Jabagat, presented the city’s advancements in disaster preparedness, particularly in the context of recurring floods. He emphasized the need for continuous resilience-building efforts, noting the significant impact of past typhoons, including Typhoon Sendong in 2011 and Typhoon Odette in 2021, which underscored the city’s vulnerability to flooding.
To address this, Cagayan de Oro has adopted several technological innovations, such as enhancing its flood forecasting and warning center and improving information dissemination through an advanced early warning system. The establishment of NGA 911 was another critical step in fortifying the city’s disaster response framework. Jabagat stressed that these initiatives are vital in creating a climate-adaptive, smart community that is better equipped to handle future environmental challenges.
The 3rd Annual Local Governance Congress served as a platform for local leaders and stakeholders to exchange ideas and strategies, reflecting the shared commitment to a resilient, tech-driven future for Mindanao’s communities. Through SMART technologies, DILG-10 and participating LGUs aim to create lasting impacts that pave the way for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
