Zamboanga City and 7 other local government units in Zamboanga Peninsula were identified as centers of the Specialized Knowledge Institute for Local Learning or SKILL, a project launched by the Department of Interior and Local Government in a bid to advance local governance and empower LGUs with enhanced skills and knowledge.
The launching of SKILL with the forging of the memorandum of agreement between the DILG-9 and the LGUs of Zamboanga City, Isabela City, Dipolog City, and the municipalities of Liloy, Bayog and Ipil – the 7 SKILL centers in Zampen, was the highlight of the 32nd Local Government Month celebration held at the Garden Orchid Hotel Tuesday, October 24.
The DILG-9 led by Director Paizal Abutazil named Zamboanga City as one of the elite LGUs in Zampen for its best practice in institutionalizing effective barangay and data governance as foundation for local development.
The DILG-initiated SKILL Centers have the potential to transform local governance in Region IX by empowering LGUs with enhanced skills and knowledge. The same also fosters collaboration and innovation, opening doors to new growth, development, and community well-being.
The 32nd Local Government Month celebration which also coincided with the 2023 Annual Local Governance Congress, was themed “LGUs of the Future: Shaping Sustainable and Innovative Local Government Units of Tomorrow” had 3 sessions – The Future of Food which discussed the sustainability of food supply; The Future Services which tackled about sustaining commerce and data governance; and The Future of the Environment which elaborated on climate actions and water.
DILG Assistant Secretary Florida M. Dijan emphasized that the commitment and efforts of local government operations officers can lead to impactful changes within their areas of responsibility. “This message highlights the importance of recognizing the potential for positive influence in everyday roles, underscoring that small actions can collectively create significant change.”
Mayor John M. Dalipe in his welcome message lauded the DILG for conceptualizing the project stressing that the prosperity and sustainability of Region 9 can only be achieved through unity and shared dedication. “It’s our collective responsibility to ensure success and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”
For his part, Director Abutazil cited the need for collective determination to improve communities. He emphasized that through sharing knowledge, ideas, and experiences, the region can develop solutions that will shape the local governments of the future. The Local Government Code Month Exhibit, which showcased best practices of the different LGUs and key national government agencies, was also a highlight during the day-long activity. (Sheila Covarrubias)