KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – The Provincial Government of South Cotabato, in partnership with municipal local government units (LGUs) and key agencies, formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the implementation of CSO Academy Batch 3, highlighting their collective commitment to strengthening civil society participation in governance.
The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from various government agencies, local chief executives, and scholars, demonstrating strong support for the program, which aims to promote more inclusive and participatory public service.
Seventeen CSO scholars will undergo a one-year program, beginning with a five-day training from March 23 to 27 in Lake Sebu. The program combines face-to-face classes, online sessions, and self-paced modules to strengthen leadership skills and community engagement.
According to Atty. Renette B. Bergado, Acting Provincial Administrator and Provincial Cooperatives Development Officer, the initiative highlights the province’s commitment to empowering civil society.
“The CSO Academy is a vital platform for developing capable and responsible leaders who can actively participate in governance and community development,” Bergado said.
She added that strengthening CSOs ensures that programs remain responsive to the needs of the people.
“By equipping our CSO leaders with the right knowledge and skills, we are building a more inclusive and participatory governance system,” she emphasized.
Through the CSO Academy, the province continues to invest in building empowered and community-driven leaders, reinforcing its commitment to transparent, accountable, and participatory governance as part of a broader effort to institutionalize meaningful citizen engagement and ensure that development initiatives are driven by the people, for the people.
