The Department of the Interior and Local Government Region XI successfully convened the 1st Quarter Multi-Stakeholders Advisory Council (MSAC) XI Meeting on March 31, 2026 at Luxebridge Hotel, Davao City, bringing together key partner agencies and stakeholders to advance collaborative local governance in the region.
Among the major highlights of the activity was the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing between DILG XI and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region XI, marking the official inclusion of DENR XI as a new member of the MSAC. This partnership further reinforces inter-agency collaboration in delivering responsive and sustainable development interventions for LGUs.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on the presentation of the Operational Guidelines for the Strengthening Local Governance (STRONGER) for Full Devolution Program FY 2026, with particular emphasis on the implementation of the Local Government Code Review and Amendment Program (LGC RevAmP). This initiative aims to address existing gaps and emerging challenges in local governance through proposed amendments to the Local Government Code of 1991.
Council members from Department of Agriculture XI (DA XI), National Police Commission XI (NAPOLCOM XI), Philippine Information Agency XI (PIA XI), University of Mindanao, and UP Mindanao, actively engaged in discussions and presented their proposed amendments to the Local Government Code (LGC), providing a platform for MSAC members to contribute insights and recommendations grounded in their respective expertise and field experience.
Another key milestone was the recommendation to include the National Master Plumbers Association of the Philippines (NAMPAP) – Davao Chapter as a member of the MSAC, further expanding the Council’s network that can support LGUs through technical and capacity development interventions.
The meeting concluded with reaffirmation of the MSAC’s commitment to fostering stronger partnerships and innovative solutions in support of effective, accountable, and empowered local governance in the Davao Region.