Duration
Jul 2025
Date Submitted
2nd January 2025
Foreword(s)
We are proud to present the Open Government PartnershipThe Open Government Partnership (OGP) is a multi-stakeholder initiative focused on improving government transparency, ensuring opportunities for citizen participation in public matters, and strengthen... More (OGP) Action Plan for the Municipality of Larena. This plan marks a vital step toward realizing our shared vision of a transparent, accountable, and inclusive local government. Our goal is to empower all sectors of society as we strive to become the center of commerce, educationAccountability within the public education system is key to improving outcomes and attainment, and accountability is nearly impossible without transparent policies and opportunities for participation ..., culture, and tourism in Siquijor. With strong leadership, social justiceTo address barriers that prevent citizens from having their justice needs met, OGP participating governments are working to expand transparency, accountability, and inclusion into all systems of justi..., and active citizen participationAccording to OGP’s Articles of Governance, citizen participation occurs when “governments seek to mobilize citizens to engage in public debate, provide input, and make contributions that lead to m... More, we aim to create a community marked by peace, prosperity, and sustainable development, guided by the principles of good governance.
Our ambitionAccording to OGP’s Articles of Governance, OGP commitments should “stretch government practice beyond its current baseline with respect to key areas of open government.” Ambition captures the po... is to create a governance model that responds to community needs and actively involves citizens as equal partners in decision-making. This action plan deepens our commitmentOGP commitments are promises for reform co-created by governments and civil society and submitted as part of an action plan. Commitments typically include a description of the problem, concrete action... to transparencyAccording to OGP’s Articles of Governance, transparency occurs when “government-held information (including on activities and decisions) is open, comprehensive, timely, freely available to the pub... More, accountability, and participation, ensuring a government that listens to and collaborates with its people. It is a call to action for all sectors—government, civil society, and the private sector—to unite in building a more resilient, equitable, and engaged Larena.
This plan is the result of collaboration between local government leaders, civil society, the private sectorGovernments are working to open private sector practices as well — including through beneficial ownership transparency, open contracting, and regulating environmental standards. Technical specificat..., and community representatives. Together, we have identified priorities to improve governance, increase civic participation, and strengthen public service deliveryTo ensure that citizens of all groups are better supported by the government, OGP participating governments are working to improve the quality of and access to public services. Commitments in this are....
We recognize that successful implementation depends on ongoing cooperation and accountability. The government is committed to integrating OGP principles into every aspect of governance, while civil society and the community will play a critical role in monitoring progress and holding us accountable.
Through continued collaboration, we believe Larena can become a model of inclusive governance, where every citizen plays a part in shaping decisions, and government actions reflect the people’s needs and aspirations.
Open Government Challenges, Opportunities and Strategic Vision
This subsection details the Open Government Strategic Vision in your local area that should guide the commitments for the action plan period.
What is the long-term vision for open government in your context and jurisdiction?
In Larena, one of the primary challenges in implementing Open Government principles is the limited access to technology. While many households are within reach of our local government services, there are areas where connectivity remains inconsistent due to signal dead spots, making it difficult for some residents to fully engage with online platforms. Additionally, not all citizens have the digital literacy or resources to take advantage of technological solutions.
Despite these challenges, there are significant opportunities to enhance engagement. We can leverage traditional communication channels—such as community assemblies, local radio, and printed materials—to ensure that all residents, regardless of their access to technology, are informed and can participate in governance. Civil society organizations also play a critical role in facilitating engagement and ensuring that government actions are transparent and inclusive.
Our strategic vision is to create a transparent, accountable, and inclusive local government that empowers all citizens to actively participate in decision-making. By combining digital and traditional means of engagement, we aim to strengthen transparency, accountability, and citizen participation. This vision will guide us in building a Larena that is more resilient, equitable, and responsive to the needs and aspirations of all its residents.
What are the achievements in open government to date (for example, recent open government reforms)?
The Municipality of Larena’s governance framework promotes transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, centered on the CALIBO model: Cultivate, Action, Leaders, Involve, Bayanihan, and Opportunity.
It emphasizes community participation, demonstrated by the establishment of the People’s Organization in 2023 to strengthen governance partnerships. Actions focus on inclusive programs such as Gulayan sa Pamayanan and livelihood support for farmers, women, and fisherfolk, while addressing environmental issues like forest rehabilitation.
Similarly, leaders extend leadership beyond elected officials, ensuring collaborative decision-making with stakeholders. They also encourages participation from sectors like business, youthRecognizing that investing in youth means investing in a better future, OGP participating governments are creating meaningful opportunities for youth to participate in government processes. Technical ..., and NGOs, with groups such as the Siquijor Chamber of Commerce and Siquijor State College contributing to development efforts.
Bayanihan fosters community cooperation, seen in disaster preparedness and public assemblies where residents contribute to decision-making. Opportunity turns challenges into growth, exemplified by the LGU’s collaboration with DSWD to support marginalized groups with livelihood programs.
The CALIBO framework, shaped by the Rapid Needs and Resources Assessment, supports participatory governance through the Municipal Development Council and Local Project Monitoring Committee, ensuring effective, transparent, and accountable development in Larena.
What are the current challenges/areas for improvement in open government that the jurisdiction wishes to tackle?
The Municipality of Larena faces several challenges in open government that need addressing to improve governance and service delivery. Key issues include delayed procurement processes that hinder the timely implementation of infrastructure projects and public services. Despite planning 17 projects annually, only 5 are typically completed, leaving several unimplemented each year. The underutilization of the Municipal Development Fund also reflects inefficiencies, with fund usage falling short of the requirements for the Seal of Good Local Governance. Procurement, which should take 30 days, often extends to 60 days or more due to inadequate monitoring and a lack of technical expertise. These delays impact critical services like road maintenance, drainage, and public facilities, which are especially necessary before the rainy season, during tourism peaks, and in emergencies. These inefficiencies contribute to economic setbacks, reduced public trust, and cost overruns. Addressing these issues through reforms will help enhance transparency, build capacity, and ensure timely project execution, benefiting the community and strengthening governance.
What are the medium-term open government goals that the government wants to achieve?
The medium-term open government goals for the Municipality of Larena focus on enhancing transparency, accountability, and citizen participation. A primary goal is to streamline procurement processes by improving monitoring systems, increasing technical expertise, and ensuring timely project implementation. This will address delays and enable more efficient
completionImplementers must follow through on their commitments for them to achieve impact. For each commitment, OGP’s Independent Reporting Mechanism (IRM) evaluates the degree to which the activities outlin... of infrastructure projects and public services. Another key objective is to optimize the Municipal Development Fund’s use, ensuring the full execution of planned projects and meeting the Seal of Good Local Governance criteria.
Additionally, the local government aims to strengthen institutional capacity by developing technical skills in procurement, project management, and financial management. Promoting citizen participation is essential, with an emphasis on involving community representatives, civil society organizations, and the private sector in planning, implementation, and monitoring local projects.
Lastly, the government seeks to foster transparency and accountability through real-time project monitoring and reporting mechanisms, ensuring citizens have access to information and can provide feedback. These medium-term goals are designed to address inefficiencies, build public trust, and create a more transparent, resilient, and participatory local government.
How does this action plan contribute to achieve the Open Government Strategic Vision?
This action plan contributes to achieving the Open Government Strategic Vision by fostering a governance framework that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and active citizen participation. By addressing key challenges such as procurement delays and underutilization of funds, the plan aims to streamline processes and improve the efficiency of local government operations. The emphasis on enhancing technical expertise and monitoring mechanisms ensures that projects are completed on time and within budget, promoting accountability in government actions. Additionally, the plan’s focus on expanding civic engagement aligns with the vision of a more inclusive government, as it seeks to involve community representatives, civil society organizations, and the private sector in decision-making processes. Through these efforts, the action plan builds a more responsive and people-centered local government, where citizens are empowered to actively participate in shaping Larena’s development. Furthermore, the establishment of real-time monitoring and reporting systems aligns with the vision of open and accessible governance, allowing citizens to stay informed and involved in the progress of local projects. Ultimately, the action plan is a crucial step toward realizing the municipality’s goal of becoming a model of inclusive governance, where every sector of society contributes to and benefits from the development process.
How does the open government strategic vision contribute to the accomplishment of the current administration’s overall policy goals?
Engagement and Coordination in the Open Government Strategic Vision and OGP Action Plan
Please list the lead institutions responsible for the implementation of this OGP action plan.
- Bids and Awards Committee
- Municipal Planning and Development Office
- Office of the Municipal Mayor
- Human Resources Office
What kind of institutional arrangements are in place to coordinate between government agencies and departments to implement the OGP action plan?
The Municipality of Larena has established key institutional arrangements to ensure the smooth implementation of the OGP action plan. At the core is the Municipal Development Council (MDC), which integrates OGP principles into local development efforts. The MDC coordinates with various government agencies, ensuring alignment with the action plan’s goals of transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.
In parallel, the People’s Council acts as a bridge between the local government and the community, allowing residents to actively engage in decision-making and governance. This ensures inclusivity and enhances the municipality’s commitment to transparent governance.
To further strengthen the implementation process, the Local Project Monitoring Committee (LPMC) oversees the execution of local projects, ensuring they meet quality standards, timelines, and budget constraints. The inclusionOGP participating governments are working to create governments that truly serve all people. Commitments in this area may address persons with disabilities, women and girls, lesbian, gay, bisexual, tr... of civil society representatives in the LPMC helps promote transparency. Additionally, Technical Working Groups (TWGs) are created for specific projects, involving experts and stakeholders to address challenges and maintain the focus on OGP principles. Together, these arrangements foster efficient and accountable governance in Larena.
What kind of spaces have you used or created to enable the collaboration between government and civil society in the co-creation and implementation of this action plan? Mention both offline and online spaces.
The Municipality of Larena has created various platforms for collaboration between government and civil society in the co-creation and implementation of the OGP action plan. These include both offline and online spaces that allow active participation, feedback, and collaboration.
Offline, the Municipal Development Council (MDC) serves as a key venue where government representatives and civil society organizations (CSOs) come together to discuss development priorities, assess ongoing projects, and shape local policies. Public consultations and community assemblies are regularly held in barangays, ensuring that residents have direct input into the governance process. These face-to-face interactions foster trust, promote transparency, and provide a space for citizens to voice their concerns and ideas.
Online, the Municipality of Larena Facebook page and the official municipal website are used to share information about the action plan, solicit feedback, and engage with a broader audience. The People’s Council also maintains digital communication channels to ensure continuous collaboration between local government officials and residents. These online platforms help overcome barriers related to physical distances and promote transparency by providing easy access to information and updates. Together, these spaces facilitate inclusive and transparent governance, ensuring that all stakeholders, both offline and online, are actively involved in shaping the future of Larena.
What measures did you take to ensure diversity of representation (including vulnerable or marginalized populations) in these spaces?
Who participated in these spaces?
In the collaborative spaces created for the co-creation and implementation of the OGP Action Plan, a diverse group of stakeholders actively participated, ensuring a wide representation from various sectors. Government officials, including the mayor, local department heads, and staff from different municipal offices, played an integral role in both offline and online consultations. Civil society organizations (CSOs) representing women, youth, farmers, fisherfolk, and persons with disabilities shared their insights and recommendations.
Religious organizations, cooperatives, and Parents-Teachers Associations (PTAs) were also crucial contributors, providing valuable perspectives on how to ensure that government programs are inclusive and responsive to the needs of different community groups. Private sector representatives from local businesses offered feedback on how government initiatives could foster economic growth and local development. Additionally, barangay residents participated through public forums and consultations, making sure grassroots voices were heard.
The Municipality of Larena Facebook page was utilized to disseminate information to a wider audience, ensuring that the community remained informed about ongoing initiatives and progress. Although not a platform for meetings, it served as an essential tool for transparency and public awareness, complementing offline interactions and fostering a more informed and engaged community.
How many groups participated in these spaces?
10
How many public-facing meetings were held in the co-creation processCollaboration between government, civil society and other stakeholders (e.g., citizens, academics, private sector) is at the heart of the OGP process. Participating governments must ensure that a dive...?
2
How will government and non-governmental stakeholders continue to collaborate through the implementation of the action plan?
Please describe the independent Monitoring Body you have identified for this plan.
Provide the contact details for the independent monitoring body.
What types of activities will you have in place to discuss progress on commitments with stakeholders?
To discuss progress on commitments with stakeholders, the Municipality of Larena will ensure active participation through several activities. Public assemblies will be held twice a year in each barangay, where the LGU will attend to provide updates on the OGP Action Plan. These assemblies will serve as platforms for government officials to present progress, address challenges, and engage directly with residents, civil society organizations (CSOs), and local businesses. The LGU’s presence at these assemblies ensures that the community remains informed and can actively contribute to discussions.
Additionally, the Procurement Oversight Team (POT) will hold monthly meetings with government departments and CSOs to review procurement processes, ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of projects.
The Municipal Development Council (MDC) will also organize regular meetings with stakeholders, including CSOs and community representatives, to monitor the impact of the action plan. Through these activities, the LGU will maintain open communication, fostering collaboration and ensuring that Larena’s development is guided by the needs and feedback of its citizens.
How will you regularly check in on progress with implementing agencies?
To regularly check on progress with the implementation of the OGP Action Plan, the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) will provide monthly progress reports on the status of procurement activities and other ongoing projects. These reports will be reviewed by the Procurement Oversight Team (POT) to ensure compliance with procurement regulations and timelines. Regular meetings will be conducted between the BAC and the POT, where they will assess project milestones, identify potential issues, and discuss necessary adjustments to ensure alignment with the action plan.
In addition, the LGU Management will schedule quarterly progress reviews to evaluate overall project performance. This includes checking on the completion of identified action plan commitments, ensuring projects are progressing according to the established timelines, budgets, and objectives. These regular check-ins will provide accountability, foster transparency, and ensure that the action plan’s goals are being met effectively.
How will you share the results of your monitoring efforts with the public?
To share the results of our monitoring efforts with the public, the LGU of Larena will use the official Facebook page as a primary platform for disseminating key updates. This will include regular posts summarizing the outcomes of monitoring activities, such as progress reports from the Bids and Awards Committee and updates on the implementation of the action plan.
In addition, during public assemblies, held twice a year in each barangay, the LGU will present monitoring results directly to residents. These assemblies provide an interactive space where citizens can ask questions, share concerns, and provide feedback on the government’s progress. This face-to-face engagement ensures that the community stays informed and involved in the decision-making process.
To further ensure transparency, barangay meetings will be leveraged as an opportunity to distribute printed progress reports and summaries of key activities, ensuring that even those with limited internet access can stay informed. This multi-channel approach will help foster trust, maintain accountability, and strengthen the collaboration between the LGU and the community.
Endorsement from Non-Governmental Stakeholders
- Nino M. Monticod, Lyco President, Larena Youth Care Organization
- Luijay John T. Idayan, Pyc Coordinator, Parish Youth Council Larena
Commitments
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