On March 21-23, 2024, the 1st Liga ng mga Barangay (LnB) - Tarlac Chapter Provincial Congress for the year was held with the theme "Strengthening Individuals’ Knowledge, Abilities, and Development (SIKAD) towards Sustainable Local Governance” at the picturesque island of Boracay in Aklan. This momentous event brought together Tarlac's local and barangay officials, while resource persons from DILG Tarlac shared their valuable knowledge on barangay governance charting a path towards a more effective and sustainable local leadership.
The Congress was graced by the presence of distinguished officials, including:
- HON. SUSAN A. YAP, Governor of the Province of Tarlac
- HON. CHRISTIAN TELL A. YAP, District Representative, Tarlac, 2nd District
- HON. NOEL N. RIVERA, District Representative, Tarlac, 3rd District
- HON. JOSE M. SALTING JR., Liga ng mga Barangay (LnB) Tarlac President
- MR. EARL SITACA, Chief of Staff of Cong. Jaime Cojuangco
- HON. FROLIBAR S. BAUTISTA, Mayor, Municipality of Malay, Aklan
- HON. DANILO C. ASIATEN, Board Member
- HON. DENNIS NORMAN T. GO, Board Member
- HON. JOY GILBERT R. LAMORENA, Board Member
- HON. NOEL L. VILLANUEVA, Mayor, Municipality of Concepcion
- HON. ERLON C. AGUSTIN, Mayor, Municipality of Camiling
- HON. ALICE L. GUO, Mayor, Municipality of Bamban
Moreover, the activity aimed to fortify the capabilities of barangay officials in contributing to national development and delivering essential services aligned with National programs, projects, and activities (PPAs). Recognizing the indispensable role of barangays in the country's progress, the Congress emphasized the need for continuous capacity-building activities among barangay officials.
Through the guidance of DILG Regional Office III Director Atty. Anthony C. Nuyda, CESO III and DILG Tarlac Provincial Director Armi V. Bactad, CESO V, one of the vital discussions during the Congress revolved around the Seal of Good Local Governance for Barangays (SGLGB). LGOO VII Jeffrey S. Manalastas led a comprehensive discussion on the core governance areas, while LGOO VI Mon Alven A. Lagonilla, En.P delved into the essential governance areas, providing valuable insights and guidance to enhance barangay governance practices.
In her address, Governor Susan A. Yap emphasized the significance of equipping barangay officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to fulfill their roles effectively. She underscored the importance of collaboration and partnership among barangays, local government units, and other stakeholders in achieving sustainable and inclusive development.
Reflecting on the success of the event, LnB Tarlac President Hon. Jose M. Salting Jr. also expressed optimism about the future of barangays by pursuing sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Lastly, the Congress facilitated networking opportunities and strengthened ties among participants, fostering a sense of unity and collective responsibility towards building resilient and vibrant communities.
Indeed, the LnB Congress concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to apply the learnings and best practices in their respective barangays, contributing to the overall progress and well-being of their communities.