MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL (PIA) — As part of its continuing efforts to strengthen public service and national consciousness, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-10 conducted an interfacing session with officials and residents of Barangay Mialen, Oroquieta City.
The activity was led by DILG Regional Director Bruce A. Colao, who underscored the department’s aim to make governance accessible to all communities, including those in geographically isolated areas.
“We are here in front of you to show that the support of the government reaches even the farthest barangay. No community should feel beyond the government’s reach,” Colao said.
He also reiterated DILG’s advocacy for peace and order through programs such as the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP).
City Mayor Lemuel Meyrick M. Acosta addressed the community, sharing his own experience to encourage residents to contribute to the development of their locality. He emphasized that while the village may be small in size, limitations arise only when individuals underestimate their own capacity to contribute to progress.
Representatives from partner law enforcement agencies, including the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Oroquieta City local government, also took part in the activity. Their presence signified a collaborative approach to supporting peace, order, and development.
The program concluded with a flag retreat ceremony, a gesture reinforcing commitment to civic duty and national identity. Colao highlighted the importance of flag ceremonies as required by Republic Act No. 8491, also known as the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, and Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 19, series of 2012.
He said these ceremonies are not only symbolic but serve as consistent reminders of the presence and accountability of government at the barangay level.
Punong Barangay Crisanto P. Miculob expressed his gratitude for the visit, noting the significance of the government’s presence in their community.
“Daghan gyud kaayong salamat (Thank you very much),” he said. (DILG Misamis Occidental/PIA Misamis Occidental)
