The Department of the Interior and Local Government Region XI (DILG XI) has officially opened the second batch of the Transformative Leadership for Elevated Governance: Refresher Course for Re-elected Local Officials, this time gathering newly-elected officials (NEOs) and returning leaders from Davao del Norte — Tagum City, Panabo City, San Isidro, New Corella, Talaingod, Carmen, Kapalong, and Santo Tomas — and Davao de Oro — Nabunturan, Maco, Montevista, Compostela, Maragusan, and Mabini.
This two-day learning activity, part of the continuing Newly Elected Officials (NEO) Program, aims to strengthen leadership capabilities, foster collaborative governance, and align local priorities with the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028.
Similar to the first cluster’s sessions, the opening day covered key governance and development topics from the morning plenary, including Philippine Governance and Public Accountability, and the Philippine Development Plan and its pillars of economic growth, poverty reduction, food security, and social cohesion for sustainable development.
In addition, Day 1 featured sessions designed to sharpen the personal and institutional leadership approaches of local officials. Regional Director Rene V. Carbayas of PIA XI delivered an engaging discussion on leadership branding, social media communication, and public speaking, underscoring the vital role of Barangay Information Officers in ensuring accurate, timely, and transparent public information.
Ms. Brenda Dimas, AgriBOOST Project Supervisor of Butuan City, shared their best practice in food security and agribusiness, highlighting how their integrated approach has driven inclusive and sustainable community growth while fostering strong partnerships between local farmers, entrepreneurs, and government stakeholders.
Meanwhile, Engr. Virgil A. Fuentes of DICT XI presented Digital Governance and Smart LGUs, encouraging local leaders to embrace innovative technologies to improve efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement in service delivery.
These sessions represent just a portion of the rich exchange of ideas, best practices, and strategic insights lined up for the two-day activity. With the combination of governance fundamentals and practical innovations, the refresher course equips officials not only to lead but to transform their localities into more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready communities.
The program continues tomorrow with specialized sessions and interactive workshops, further solidifying the commitment of local leaders to elevated governance through transformative leadership.