By Jerome Alangui-Muguet Polonio, Ph.D. 
La Trinidad People’s Council (LTPC) Strengthens Governance, Wellness, and 2026 Planning
The La Trinidad People’s Council (LTPC) successfully conducted a meaningful and productive Two-Day CSO Capability Building and Planning Activity, bringing together civil society organizations (CSOs), people’s organizations (POs), local leaders, and partners from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of La Trinidad. The event highlighted the importance of participatory governance, ethical leadership, and collaborative planning as foundations for a stronger and more people-centered local governance system.
The activity featured a series of orientation sessions, planning workshops, wellness exercises, and review sessions designed to enhance organizational capacity and prepare the LTPC for its 2026 programs and priorities.
Day 1: Strengthening Governance Foundations and Setting the 2026 Direction
The first day opened with a solemn prayer and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, setting a reflective and unified tone for the sessions ahead.
Understanding the Duties and Roles of the LTPC
Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Ms. Teresa Mangangey delivered a comprehensive orientation on the duties, functions, and responsibilities of the LTPC. Her presentation emphasized the Council’s role as a vital mechanism for participatory governance, ensuring that community voices are heard and represented in local development processes.
She also underscored the LTPC’s commitment to ethical leadership, reminding participants that “governance is not only about systems—it is fundamentally about values.” The session highlighted the need for honesty, integrity, transparency, accountability, fairness, and civic responsibility as guiding principles for all LTPC members.
Planning Workshop for FY 2026
A major highlight of Day 1 was the Planning Workshop for FY 2026, facilitated by Ms. Robelyn Madayag and Mr. Orlando Pacya. This collaborative session enabled the participants to identify priority programs, propose innovative activities, and validate initiatives based on the needs of La Trinidad’s diverse communities.
The workshop resulted in:
· A clear and unified Program Plan of Action for FY 2026
· Alignment of proposed activities with pressing community concerns
· A shared vision for enhancing participatory governance across the municipality
Participants engaged actively and constructively, reaffirming their dedication to strengthening people’s participation in local development.
Review of the Draft Internal Rules & Procedures
The afternoon continued with an in-depth review of the LTPC’s Draft Internal Rules and Procedures. Moderated by Mr. Jhomar Doriano and Ms. Hilda Obar, the session created an open space for clarifications, enhancements, and refinements to ensure that the final IRP becomes both practical and forward-looking. The lively exchange showcased the collective desire to establish a strong and functional internal governance framework for the LTPC.
Day 2: Wellness, Personal Strengthening, and Organizational Readiness
The second day shifted focus to the personal and emotional dimensions of leadership. Ms. Lourdes Taguiba and Ms. Jersie Subli led meaningful mental health and wellness sessions, emphasizing emotional resilience, stress management, and personal balance.
Participants engaged in reflective and team-building activities designed to rejuvenate their spirits and remind them that effective community leadership begins with personal well-being. Many expressed feeling renewed and better equipped to continue their community service roles with clarity and motivation.
Collective Gains and Shared Accomplishments
Across both days, the participants demonstrated unwavering commitment and active engagement. The capability-building initiative resulted in significant collective achievements:
· A refined and strengthened Internal Rules of Procedure
· A community-responsive and well-prepared FY 2026 Program Plan of Action
· Deeper appreciation of LTPC’s roles, mandates, and ethical responsibilities
· Enhanced collaboration and solidarity among CSO and PO leaders
· Renewed focus on personal wellness and organizational readiness
The activity not only strengthened technical competencies but also reinforced unity, mutual understanding, and shared purpose among the diverse organizations of La Trinidad.
Closing Reflections
In her heartfelt closing message, Ma’am Luth Victoria Gale Juanito acknowledged the dedication and meaningful contributions of all participants. She emphasized that the LTPC’s strength lies not only in its structure but in the people who give life to its mission.
The two-day activity concluded with renewed energy and determination. Leaders affirmed their commitment to transparent, accountable, and people-centered governance—a governance model that listens, collaborates, and uplifts.
Conclusion
The CSO Capability Building and Planning Activity stands as a testament to the thriving spirit of people’s participation in La Trinidad. Through strengthened governance mechanisms, improved internal policies, a well-defined 2026 program plan, and a renewed emphasis on wellness and teamwork, the LTPC is poised to soar higher in its mission of empowering communities.
As the LTPC moves forward, the call is clear:
Continue collaborating, continue serving, and continue building a more inclusive and progressive La Trinidad.
KEEP SOARING, LTPC!
