In recognition and appreciation for the efforts, selfless service, and invaluable contributions of KALAHI-CIDSS stakeholders, the Municipality of Gloria, Oriental Mindoro, paid tribute to them during the Community Volunteers (CVs) and Stakeholders Day on September 26, 2024, at the J. Punzalan Gymnasium.

The activity was highlighted by the celebration of the hard work and dedication of the CVs, honoring not only their commitment but also the inspiration they provide to others.

Further, the Community Volunteers and Stakeholders Day is an expression of the municipality’s commitment to Community-Driven Development (CDD) Institutionalization.

This is reflected in a Sangguniang Bayan Resolution declaring September 24 of every year as Community Volunteers Day.

“I sponsored and authored this resolution because I recognize the great contribution of the Community Volunteers to the Municipality of Gloria. Without them, it would be difficult for us and for the barangay leaders to complete the programs and projects, as they are known for their excellence in managing barangay projects.” said Hon. Norma R. Paz, Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Member and author of the resolution.

Present during the event were local leaders, headed by Hon. German D. Rodegerio, Mayor, and Vice Mayor Romeo Edward Alvarez, along with SB Members and Department Heads.

Also in attendance were DSWD MIMAROPA and KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Program Management Office represented by Engr. Raymond Libarra, Deputy Regional Program Manager and representatives from various National Government Agencies (NGAs).

In his speech, Mayor Rodegerio acknowledged the significance of the community in the governance process, envisioning a time where there is a transfer of authority and power to the people, enabling community participation in governance.

He also expressed appreciation to the DSWD’s KALAHI-CIDSS for empowering the people and engaging them in the development process in their communities.

At the same time, Engr. Libarra shared his admiration for the Municipality of Gloria for being one of the few to institutionalize CDD and the first to enact a resolution declaring a Community Volunteers Day.

He also congratulated the LGU of Gloria for winning in the Regional Bayani Ka! Awards, and will compete for the National Awards on October 10, 2024.

The efforts of LGU of Gloria is a manifestation of ripen acceptance of CDD in the community as Engr. Libarra also gave a brief update on the KALAHI-CIDSS successor program, PANAHON NG PAGKILOS, which excites everyone, especially the community volunteers.

DILG Provincial Director Del Rosario also expressed their admiration for the KALAHI-CIDSS system of empowering the citizenry and for the community volunteers being great partners in development.

As a gesture of appreciation and recognition, the organizers pinned ribbons and plaques of recognition were awarded to the CVs and partner stakeholders.

The DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS Municipal Coordinating Team was also recognized for their tireless efforts in promoting CDD at the grassroots level.

Since 2012, Gloria has implemented different modalities of KALAHI-CIDSS and completed 111 sub-projects, ranging from school buildings, daycare centers, barangay health stations, farm-to-market roads, seawalls and slope protections, water systems, drainage canals, post-harvest facilities, and others, with a total project cost of Php 105,880,119.03.

With the institutionalization of CDD in the Municipality of Gloria, even without KALAHI-CIDSS implementation, they were able to complete 45 sub-projects, ranging from multi-purpose buildings, barangay health stations, barangay markets, barangay access roads, and various youth-led sub-projects using the KALAHI-CIDSS processes, with funding from the 20% of the Development Fund from 2019 to 2024.

“I am very happy and proud today because all our efforts and endeavors were not in vain. We are recognized, not only in the barangay but in the whole municipality. It inspires us to do better,” said Rosalinda M. Fajilagot, CV, Procurement Team Member.

“We are very thankful and grateful. Though we didn’t expect this kind of recognition, it really boosts our morale, showing that we are valued and confirming that we did a good job. I am calling on others to join us in the development of our community,” said Arceli A. Lopez, CV, AGWASA Auditor, Operations and Maintenance Group.#