The Iloilo City Government officially launched the Barangay Academy for Public Service and Development on May 14, 2026, aiming to institutionalize excellence in grassroots governance. The academy is a training program designed to help local government workers perform their duties more effectively through three main pillars: Capacity Development, Institutional Strengthening, and Cross-Cutting and Demand-Driven Initiatives.
Mayor's Vision
Mayor Raisa Treñas stated during the launch at the City Hall Annex Auditorium that the idea came from listening to the experiences, struggles, and aspirations of barangay officials and community workers. She emphasized that barangays are the true frontline of governance and the closest link between the government and the community.
Key Components
The Capacity Development pillar focuses on improving core competencies in local governance and professionalizing public service, with Budget and Fiscal Management as a key component. The Institutional Strengthening pillar aims to improve internal foundations, peace and order, and disaster risk reduction and management. The Cross-Cutting and Demand-Driven Initiatives pillar focuses on data systems, transparency, and citizen feedback mechanisms.
Support from DILG
Regional Director Juan Jovian Ingeniero of the Department of the Interior and Local Government in Western Visayas (DILG 6) lauded the program as a first of its kind in the region. He described it as a long-term intervention and investment in good governance that starts at the grassroots level. He also expressed gratitude to the city government for acting quickly on the initiative.
The event featured a ceremonial commitment signing with DILG Iloilo City Director Oscar Lim Jr., Liga ng mga Barangay President Irene Ong, City Councilor Rex Marcus Sarabia, the District Association of Barangay Captains, and barangay officials. Sarabia, chair of the City Council Committee on Appropriations, noted that improving service requires proper management of the budget.
Ingeniero challenged participants to aim for the Seal of Good Local Governance for Barangays in the next cycle.
