KPPC strengthens people's voice in Kalinga governance, adopts 2026–2028 roadmap

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — The Kalinga Provincial People's Council (KPPC) has finalized its three-year roadmap aimed at strengthening the participation of civil society organizations (CSOs) in local governance, reaffirming its role as the official voice of the people's organizations in provincial decision-making.

The council completed its Vision, Mission, Goals, Objectives, and Priority Programs for 2026–2028 during a post-seminar workshop held on July 9, 2026, providing a strategic direction that will guide its programs, partnerships, and participation in governance under the Provincial Government's LUMIN-AWA Kalinga development agenda.

According to Jasmine Baruzo, Provincial Desk Officer Designate of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Kalinga, the workshop was conducted to finalize the council's organizational framework, which will serve as the foundation for its future programs, projects, and activities.

Baruzo explained that the KPPC was created through an ordinance enacted by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Kalinga and serves as the province's umbrella organization of accredited civil society organizations.

She added that the council plays a vital role in promoting inclusive governance by ensuring that the voices of various sectors are represented in policymaking, development planning, and the delivery of government programs.

As the official representative of accredited CSOs, the KPPC sits in several local special bodies of the Provincial Government, including the Provincial Development Council, Local School Board, Local Health Board, and other sectoral councils and committees where policies, plans, and programs affecting the province are discussed.

Through these bodies, the council represents the interests of farmers, women, youth, senior citizens, indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and other organized community groups, ensuring that their concerns and recommendations are considered in government decisions.

The workshop was led by KPPC Chairperson Fr. George Manise, together with Vice Chairperson John Leyaley, Secretary Desiderio Macusi, Auditor Mario Garcia, and Treasurer Atty. Maria Gavino, who guided the council in finalizing its organizational roadmap for the next three years.

The completed roadmap is expected to strengthen collaboration between the Provincial Government and civil society organizations while enhancing citizen participation, transparency, and accountability in local governance.

With its updated strategic direction, the KPPC is expected to play an even greater role in helping ensure that government programs and policies remain responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people of Kalinga.