The local government units (LGUs) in Bicol are projected to reach 99 percent compliance rates with the Full Disclosure Policy by this year, said Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Director Atty. Arnaldo Escober, Jr., during the 10th episode of Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on July 30, held at DILG Regional Office Training Hall in Legazpi City.
The Full Disclosure Policy mandates the timely uploading of crucial documents to ensure transparency. In 2023, compliance spiked to 95 percent, up from 55 percent in 2022.
“We are proud of our LGUs for their commitment to transparency and accountability. This significant increase in compliance rates is a testament to their dedication to good governance,” Escober stated.
Escober also highlighted the success of the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) program. In 2023, 17 LGUs in Bicol received the SGLG award, a significant increase from nine (9) recipients in 2022. This program recognizes LGUs that excel in various aspects of governance, including financial administration, disaster preparedness, and social protection.
The increased number of awardees reflects the DILG’s successful technical assistance and capacity-building efforts aimed at improving local governance practices. The DILG has conducted over 100 training sessions and workshops for LGUs, focusing on areas such as financial management, project planning, and community engagement.
Jail decongestion
Meanwhile, JSSupt. Elena B. Rocamora, the regional director of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), outlined the bureau’s achievements in reducing overcrowding in jails and enhancing the welfare of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs).
BJMP Bicol successfully decongested jails by releasing 5,908 PDLs through the Early Release Program, providing for the release of inmates who have served a significant portion of their sentence and meet certain criteria. This also aims at transferring inmates to less congested facilities.
“Ang aming pagsusumikap na bawasan ang siksikan sa mga kulungan ay lubos na nagpabuti ng kalagayan ng mga PDLs, na nagbibigay-daan sa amin na magbigay ng mas mahusay na mga programa para sa kanilang rehabilitasyon,” Rocamora remarked.
Rocamora also highlighted the successful implementation of the “Katatagan, Kalusugan, at Damayan ng Komunidad” (KKDK) program, which focuses on drug rehabilitation and community support for PDLs. Out of 639 graduates, many have reintegrated into their communities successfully, showing a positive impact on their rehabilitation process. The program includes counseling, vocational training, and community service, aimed at equipping PDLs with skills and support for their reintegration.
Newly constructed fire stations
FCSupt. Ricardo C. Perdigon, the regional director of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), shared that BFP constructed and turned over 10 new fire stations in underserved areas, enhancing response times and coverage.
“Ang pagtatayo ng mga bagong fire stations ay mahalaga upang mapahusay ang aming kakayahan na tumugon sa mga emerhensiya ng mabilis at epektibo. Sa kabila ng mga hamon, patuloy kaming nakatuon sa pagtiyak ng kaligtasan ng publiko,” Perdigon emphasized.
BFP also conducted more than 150 fire drills and safety seminars in communities, schools, and businesses to raise awareness and preparedness. Additionally, BFP has recruited 300 new firefighters to address personnel shortages, with ongoing training programs to ensure they are well-prepared to handle emergencies.
Mental health matters
Nydia Delfin, the area officer of the National Youth Commission’s (NYC) Bicol, discussed the commission’s initiatives to support and empower the youth, particularly in addressing mental health issues. NYC’s Kumustahan Mental Health Camp, which reached over 1,000 participants in the past year, provides a platform for young people to discuss their mental health challenges and access professional support.
“Mental health is a critical issue among our youth, and our programs are designed to provide them with the necessary support and resources,” Delfin stated.
Delfin also mentioned NYC’s active role in preventing teenage pregnancy through educational campaigns and partnerships with the Department of Health (DOH) and local stakeholders. NYC has launched 20 new programs under Executive Order 41, focusing on reproductive health education and accessible health services for adolescents. | Jeric Quidoles