The Municipal Local Government Unit (MLGU) of Tiwi, Albay has institutionalized the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) through an ordinance.
The Municipal Ordinance No. 14-2024 also known as an Ordinance Institutionalizing the CDD Principles and Practices in the Municipality of Tiwi, Albay was enacted on October 14, 2024 as the LGU appreciates the CDD principles and practices introduced by the KALAHI-CIDSS program in the identification, prioritization, implementation, operation and monitoring of community projects in the municipality.
Mayor Jaime C. Villanueva emphasized that the LGU has been practicing the principles of people’s participation, transparency, and accountability but, it was only until the implementation of the KALAHI-CIDSS that the true and deep meaning of these principles came to a full implementation.
“The 29 subprojects and 23 subprojects that were implemented in two phases under the program are a living testament that community participation is a salient driving force in community development. It also showcased the practice of transparency and accountability,” Mayor Villanueva stated.
He also believes that these manifestations have to continue hence, there is a need to institutionalize in the LGU through a local legislation.
As specified in the ordinance, the municipality will implement the CDD principles and practices in the programming of the 20% Barangay Development Fund and 5% Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund including the implementation, operations and maintenance of the programs, projects, and activities.
An allocation of not less than 20% of the Municipal Development Fund will cover the implementation of Barangay CDD projects indicated in the Barangay Development Plans or Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plans as long as that the identification and prioritization of projects have underwent CDD principles and processes.
The ordinance also authorizes the designation and/or hiring of staff that shall assist the communities in executing CDD principles and practices, assess the impact of CDD projects, and document lessons learned at the barangay.
It also encourages all the departments, agencies, and local officials to assist in implementing CDD programs, projects, and activities and to collaborate with the communities to address their needs and aspirations.
Regional Director Norman S. Laurio also commended the LGU for taking the initiative to support the institutionalization of CDD approach.
“This progressive move shows the unwavering commitment of the municipality in empowering the communities, promoting Bayanihan in the local governance, as well as ensuring inclusivity. By incorporating the CDD approach in the local development process, the LGU also ensures that the voice of the people remains an integral part of development planning and decision-making,” he shared.
He added that the ordinance demonstrates the importance of grassroots participation in attaining sustainable and equitable development. It also serves as a model for other LGUs to follow.