On October 27, 2024, DILG Tarlac participated in the conduct of the 2024 2nd Semester Barangay Assembly, with San Nicolas, Victoria, Tarlac as its Provincial Showcase Barangay. With the theme “Talakayan sa Barangay: Aktibong Diskusyon ng Pamayanan Tungo sa Masigla at Maunlad na Bagong Pilipinas,” the assembly served as an essential platform for transparent governance and community engagement at the grassroots.
As mandated by the Local Government Code of 1991, the assembly provided the community an opportunity to hear the Barangay’s semestral report on its various programs, projects, and activities (PPAs), alongside the pressing issues within its jurisdiction. The residents were informed of key developments, with presentations from Punong Barangay Paul Joseph Tabangay on the status of barangay PPAs, and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation President Carl Lewis Rendon on the utilization of SK funds. Updates on DILG-initiated programs were also discussed, highlighting the importance of community involvement in governance.
DILG Tarlac Provincial Director Armi V. Bactad, CESO V, emphasized the significant role of barangay assemblies in fostering transparency, accountability, and active citizen participation. PD Bactad described barangay assemblies as an opportunity for the residents and the barangay officials to listen, exchange insights, and collectively identify solutions to address local needs. As a resident of Barangay Nicolas herself, she encouraged residents to participate actively, noting that this engagement forms the foundation of a well-informed, empowered, and progressive Victoria.
Punong Barangay Tabangay expressed his gratitude to the residents for their support and engagement, emphasizing that their commitment and active involvement empower the barangay to function with integrity and responsiveness. He highlighted that community support is instrumental in ensuring the effectiveness and success of governance initiatives, strengthening the barangay’s role in the continuous pursuit of good governance.
Also in attendance were DILG Tarlac’s Cluster Leader Jeffrey S. Manalastas, MLGOO Precious Ava E. Guevarra, En.P, alongside other DILG Tarlac personnel; the Municipality of Victoria’s local elected officials led by Mayor Rex Villa Agustin, Vice Mayor Tristan Reevo Guiam, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and Barangay San Nicolas council members and personnel.
The success of the 2024 2nd Semester Barangay Assembly in Barangay San Nicolas underscored the power of community-driven governance, where local leaders and residents come together to shape a stronger, more resilient future. By fostering transparency and building mutual trust, the assembly reinforced the role of each resident as an active stakeholder in their barangay’s progress, where every voice contributes to the shared vision not only of a progressive Victoria but more importantly, a prosperous Philippines.
