Neophyte barangay captains undergo basic orientation

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Interior and Local Government-Cebu Province recently conducted a basic orientation for first-timer barangay captains in Cebu Province.

DILG-Cebu provincial director, Atty. Ian Kenneth Lucero, welcomed the 172 neophyte barangay captains during the said orientation.

Lucero, in a statement on their Facebook page, said that the orientation, which caters to the first batch of participants, was specifically designed for those who are new in public service to help equip them in performing their functions as leaders in their respective barangays.

Lucero said that the activity likewise aims to acquaint the attendees with the programs and initiatives of Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia such as SUGBUsog and Sugbo Kahanas, among others, to sustain their implementation in the communities despite the change of leadership.

SUGBUsog or Sugbuanong Busog, Luwas ug Himsog aims to enhance food production in the countryside. It also aimed to encourage non-farmers to grow vegetables in their backyard.

The Sugbo Kahanas Program, which is the brainchild of the governor, who sought to help those who lost their jobs and livelihoods by offering them free skills trainings which they could later use in finding other jobs here and abroad, or in starting their own ventures. It was first launched on November 24, 2021 at the height of the pandemic when strict lockdowns were implemented.

“United ta alang sa usa ka purpose - ang kalambuan sa Sugbo ug sa mga Sugboanon,” Lucero said as reminded the barangay captains that they are now considered public property and shall be accountable to their constituents 24/7.

Lucero thanked the governor and Liga ng mga Barangay Cebu Chapter president Celestino Martinez III for supporting their initiative.

To recall, Lucero, in partnership with the Philippine Councilors League Cebu Chapter, also initiated a one-day training for first-time legislators in Cebu with no experience in legislation last July 15 which was graced by DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., Garcia, and DILG-7 Director Leocadio Trovela. — (FREEMAN)