By Wilson J Hormeguera

Aimed at enhancing the competency of local legislators through various strategies and instruments, Xavier University – Governance and Leadership Institute (XU-GLI) held a training course on local legislation on January 28-30 at XU-AVR.

To provide quality local legislation as one of the keys of local development, the training highlighted the three major functions of the legislators: representation, law-making, and oversight functions.

Following the framework of local legislation, the training had sessions on “Multi-stakeholders’ Dialogue” by Engr Gail de la Rita, “Affective Politics through Social Media” by Robert dela Serna “Dealing with the Local Chief Executive” by GLI director Dr Dixon Yasay, “Crafting Quality Ordinances” by former Cagayan de Oro City councilor Ian Mark Nacaya, “Evidence-based Legislation” by Engr Dexter Lo, “Quasi-judicial Function of Legislation” by Foster Anayron, “Cost of Development” by Wilma Rugay, “Issues and Concerns of Local Legislation” by Bruce Colao, and “Performance Review” by Dr Yasay.

Among the participants were vice mayors, legislators and legislative staff from the LGUs of  Caraga; Manay, Cateel, and Banaybanay  of Davao Oriental;  Tagbina and San Miguel of Surigao del Sur; Las Nieves and Santo Tomas of Davao del Norte; Opol of Misamis Oriental; and the cities of Tagum, Bislig and Tandag.    

During his welcome message, XU president Fr Roberto C Yap SJ underscored “Local Legislation for the Poor” inspired by Pope Francis’ visit in the Philippines.

Department of Interior and Local Governance (DILG-X) director Atty Rene Burdeos stressed on the importance of continuing learning in public service during his keynote message.

XU-GLI continues to engage in the competency building of the public sector as part of the Governance theme under Research and Social Outreach (RSO) cluster.