XU-GLI and DILG help LGUs design communication strategies on water and sanitation using good governance principles.

Photo Source: Vicki Francis/Department for International Development

By Wilson J Hormeguera

Xavier University-Governance and Leadership Institute (XU-GLI) partnered with the Department of Interior and Local Government Region 10 (DILG-X) for a seminar-workshop on Human Rights-based Water and Sanitation Governance and Strategic Communication held on November 3-6 at Hotel Koresco, Pueblo de Oro, Cagayan de Oro City.

The seminar-workshop was based on the human rights standards that seek to guarantee all, especially those from the vulnerable sectors, safe, accessible, affordable and acceptable water.

Participants included the Sangguniang Bayan Members for Health and Sanitation, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinators, Municipal Engineers, Municipal Health Officers, Rural Sanitary Inspectors, and Municipal Local Government Operations Officers of the local government units of Godod, La Libertead, Manukan, Imelda, Kabasalan, Roselier Lim, and Mabuhay in Region 9; Baloi, Magsaysay, and Conception in Region 10, Caraga, Davao Oriental in Region 11; Kidapawan, Surallah, Polomolok, and Isulan in Region 12; and Sta Josefa and Las Nieves in Region 13.

The four-day affair discussed how the application of good governance principles, known as the PANTHER principles, can help ensure the delivery of water and sanitation services to the communities.

PANTHER stands for participation, accountability, non-discrimination, transparency, human dignity, empowerment, and rule of law.

Using these principles, the participants crafted a communication plan that would address the “what,” “whom,” “how,” and “when” of water and sanitation in the context of the human rights-based approach, which they can implement in their own communities.

XU-GLI’s engagement as a member of the Regional Water and Sanitation Hub is part of XU’s Research and Social Outreach agenda on governance, health and sanitation.