The Field Office was represented by Ms. Elsa Montemor, Community Development Officer IV of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), who first met with Lianga Mayor Novelita M. Sarmen to discuss matters about the Group 3 Phase 2 program facilitation on the observed proposed sub-projects. Ms. Montemor informed the mayor that the visit was done to check and validate further the importance of a pathway canopy for one of the school facilities in the municipality.

She added that the sub-projects proposed for Phase 2 implementation will continue based on the design since it was tagged under advanced obligation in 2023. Further, she emphasized the importance of using KALAHI-CIDSS funds for poverty reduction efforts to build infrastructures needed by the communities. She also reiterated that the KALAHI-CIDSS program is not only advocating for tangible sub-projects but more importantly for the empowerment processes for the communities.

Ms. Montemor also visited Barangay Banahaw and was able to have a short meeting with the barangay officials and community volunteers. She had the chance to encourage barangay officials and community volunteers to continuously work harder for the people of the barangay to enjoy the benefits of the extended efforts under community-driven development initiatives. She commended the community volunteers for their dedication and highlighted the program’s impact in honing their skills and improving the community.

Several volunteers expressed their appreciation for KALAHI-CIDSS and their commitment for future projects. “Dako akong pasalamat sa mga proyekto gihatag sa amo sa KALAHI ug sa pila ka tuig panag-uban, sukad atong evacuation, streetlights, ug water system, ug nasugdan sa phase 2–kaning school canopy (I am very grateful for the projects given to us by the KALAHI-CIDSS, which has been with us for years, starting with th evacuation center, streetlights, and the water system –  and now for phase 2, this school canopy),” Jennifer Brital, the MIT head, said.

The visit was also maximized in the exploration of a possible organizing of a Youth for CDD group when Ms. Montemor visited North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU). She presented a proposal to engage students in community-driven development initiatives to broaden and widen their perspective of community work. The proposal aims to utilize students’ idle time by enhancing their skills and fostering community involvement. NEMSU administrators expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, recognizing its potential to equip students with valuable real-world experience and a deeper understanding of community challenges.

Ms. Montemor’s visit ignited a spark of collaboration in Lianga, but the journey doesn’t end here. Barangay officials, community volunteers, and NEMSU students are all invited to step forward, embrace the spirit of community-driven development, and contribute their unique talents for their communities. Together, they can write the next chapter of Lianga’s story, ensuring a future where every individual contributes to the growth of the community.