ILIGAN CITY (PIA) -- As part of the culmination of the Civil Society Organizations (CSO) month celebration, the Iligan City People's Council (ICPC) showcased its services and programs through a fair held on April 30.

During the event, CSOs, non-governmental organizations, and people's organizations presented their initiatives focused on various areas such as peacebuilding, conflict transformation, disaster response, community development, human rights advocacy, health, and education, among others.

City Mayor Frederick Siao emphasized the crucial role of CSOs in contributing to government decision-making processes by providing valuable insights often overlooked by political leaders.

"Unsay mahitabo sa syudad kung magkanya-kanya ta? Makita karon with our cooperation ang intention of this admin is very noble, naa tay direction, naay development goals na gusto nato i-fulfil.  Ang maayo ani, maayong communication, cooperation, collaboration, importante kaayo sa society, nga kung walay communication, collaboration asa man paingon, lahi-lahi direction," he said.  

(What will happen to the city if we go our separate ways? Now, with our cooperation, we can see that the intention of this administration is very noble, we have a direction, and there are development goals that we want to fulfill. The good thing about this is good communication, cooperation, and collaboration, which are very important in society, because without communication and collaboration, where are we headed, in different directions.)

The mayor also pledged his commitment to a covenant of partnership for the people of Iligan City.

Councilor Maria Paz Teresa "Betsy" V. Zalsos echoed the significance of partnering with CSOs to represent the community's voice in various endeavors.

Meanwhile, Abel Moya, ICPC chairperson, stressed the importance of unity and collaboration among CSOs. He highlighted the event as an opportunity for CSOs to strengthen relationships and foster unity.

“This is also an opportunity for us, CSOs, to build and rebuild our relationships. For any other organizations, we also have dynamics. But this gathering provides us with the opportunity to reconnect, connect, and build relationships because our strength comes from within us,” he said 

Moya also affirmed the council's commitment to supporting the city in achieving the 15 Iligan Developmental Goals, which constitute a 15-point legislative agenda aimed at addressing major issues, including improving public health services, revitalizing businesses, and ensuring sufficient water supply for barangays.

CSOs, NGOs, and POs also received recognition and appreciation for their contribution development and peace of the city. (LELA, PIA Region 10 -Lanao del Norte)