In a decisive move to ensure a strong, coherent, and unified narrative for the full implementation of the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP) Localization in 2026, the Support to Local Governance Program (SLGP) convened a high-impact workshop focused on crafting a comprehensive communication plan and message board.

Held on April 30, 2026, at the SLGP-PMO Conference Room, SRA Annex Building in Quezon City, the activity brought together key communication and program officers from across national and regional offices to align messaging, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and clearly articulate the value and progress of PH-OGP Localization.

Setting the tone for the workshop, Support for the Local Governance Program Manager Richard L. Villacorte underscored the critical role of strategic communications in driving reform outcomes. He emphasized that a well-defined communication plan is vital in ensuring that the objectives, milestones, and impact of PH-OGP Localization are effectively conveyed to stakeholders at all levels. He likewise expressed his appreciation to the participants for their active engagement and commitment to advancing open governance.

The workshop was facilitated by the Decentralization and Local Governance Reform Advocacy Program Management Officer Anne Pauline Bereber, and Public Affairs and Communication Service Assistant Division Chief Eve Castino-Quilas. Through guided sessions and collaborative exercises, the resource persons led participants in developing a strategic communication plan anchored on coherence, consistency, and alignment across governance levels.

Participants included DILG-NCR Regional Information Officer Ronald Portales and Development Management Officer II Albert Benaso, alongside representatives from the SLGP, DILG MIMAROPA, and DILG Region III, reflecting a whole-of-government approach to strengthening open governance communications. Guided by the resource speakers, the participants crafted strategic approaches designed to influence behavior and perception, translating these into actionable strategies, appropriate communication channels, and detailed implementation plans. These included the identification of platform-specific tactics to ensure message reach, resonance, and sustainability across national, regional, and local levels.

To ensure accountability and results-driven execution, the framework also integrated mechanisms for scoring, evaluation, and performance measurement. Participants established indicators of success, developed monitoring tools, and outlined feedback mechanisms to assess the effectiveness of communication efforts and ensure that targets remain attainable, measurable, and aligned with program goals.

A key output of the activity was the formulation of a message board that clearly defines the core narrative, key messages, and audience-specific messaging strategies—ensuring that communication efforts resonate effectively with local government units, partner institutions, and the public.

As PH-OGP Localization advances toward full-scale implementation, this initiative reinforces DILG’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement—ensuring that every message contributes to building a more open, inclusive, and participatory governance landscape across the Philippines.