The Department of the Interior and Local Government-National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) convened the DILG field officers and key partners from the 17 local government units (LGUs) of Metro Manila for a regional orientation on DILG Memorandum Circular 2025-060 or the “Guidelines on the Accreditation of Civil Society Organizations and Selection of Representative to the Local Special Bodies” on July 17, 2025. The orientation marked a significant step toward a more open and inclusive governance by institutionalizing meaningful people’s participation in local governance.

The activity aimed to ensure a unified understanding and effective implementation of the updated policies regarding the accreditation of civil society organizations (CSOs) and selection of their representatives in the Local Special Bodies (LSBs) across LGUs. This initiative stems from the recognition that while CSOs play a vital role in promoting inclusive governance, challenges remain in standardizing and institutionalizing their participation in local planning and decision-making, said Luigi D.C. Pilarta, Acting Division Chief of the DILG-NCR Local Government Capability Development Division (LGCDD). Pilarta noted that the circular was formulated as a result of thorough consultations, analysis, and study. Its goal is to further strengthen citizen participation and recognize CSOs as active partners in governance, not merely as observers, he added.

Further, Maria Jasmin D. Diaz, Acting Division Chief of LGCDD, emphasized that the MC is not merely a rule or regulation but an essential tool for strengthening participatory governance, which is one of the pillars of responsive and effective public service. Together with the Support for the Local Governance Program – Regional Coordination Team (SLGP-RCT), Aaron B. Bustamante led the discussion on the salient points of the MC, especially on the process, timeline, and how it became more inclusive towards CSOs representation.

Meanwhile, DILG Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III, highlighted the importance of CSO participation as a concrete step toward an open, transparent, and responsible governance. She stressed the role of the DILG Field Offices and LGUs in ensuring that the CSO accreditation and selection process is conducted fairly, systematically, and inclusively. RD Agustin also hoped that the orientation would serve as a strong starting point for deeper coordination and continuous improvement in the implementation of MC 2025-060.The DILG-NCR reaffirms its commitment to promoting people’s participation and strengthening open governance.

Through continuous capacity-building and close collaboration with LGUs, the Department remains steadfast in its vision in nurturing local governments where every voice is heard and every sector is involved in the development process.