TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 8, through the Eastern Visayas Local Governance Regional Resource Center (EV LGRRC), entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Washington Global Institute (WGI), which took place at the Peace and Resilience Center, DILG Regional Office 8, on January 21, 2025.
The said partnership aims to empower local government units (LGUs) in Eastern Visayas and represents DILG 8’s dedication to enhancing local governance and establishing LGUs as important forces behind community change and good governance.
The significance of this collaboration was emphasized by Arnel M. Agabe, Regional Director of DILG 8, who highlighted both the immediate benefits and the long-term transformation it promises for LGUs. “This collaboration is not just about implementing programs or projects, it’s about creating bridges of understanding, exchanging valuable insights, and developing strategies that will reshape governance and ultimately improve the quality of life for our communities,” said RD Agabe.
Accordingly, working with the WGI, a reputable non-profit with headquarters in the US, allows them to share their experience in creating capacity development programs that are specifically designed to give local governments the skills and resources they need to effectively address governance issues. During said event, Dr. Tahir Shad, President of WGI, stressed the significance of collaborating closely with LGUs in order to increase their influence on local communities. “We bring a wealth of expertise to engage with LGUs and provide them with the necessary skillsets, knowing that LGUs have the most direct impact on people’s lives,” said Dr. Shad.
Furthermore, the event also included a presentation by Pamela A. Grafilo, Program Director for Asia and the Philippines from WGI, who shared successful initiatives from other regions, including best practices, which are anticipated to be useful models for improving governance in Eastern Visayas and providing local LGUs with real benefits. The said event was also joined by DILG 8 officials, who include Assistant Regional Director Atty. Darwin N. Bibar, Provincial Directors Danilo Laguitan of Southern Leyte and Judy Batulan of Samar, division chiefs, and other personnel from DILG. (By Gwen Maurillo / EV Mail JAN. 20-26, 2025 issue)
