Mayor Honey Lacuna Highlights the Associate in Barangay Governance (ABG) Program in State of the City Address

On July 30, 2024, during the State of the City Address (SOCA) held at the prestigious Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Mayor Honey Lacuna proudly acknowledged the Associate in Barangay Governance (ABG) Program as one of Manila’s most significant accomplishments. The program, uniquely designed and implemented by the Universidad de Manila (UDM) in collaboration with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Barangay Bureau, stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to empowering its local leaders.

In her speech, Mayor Lacuna lauded the ABG program for its innovative approach to addressing the critical need for enhancing the competencies of barangay officials. She highlighted how the program equips officials with essential skills in leadership, governance, fiscal administration, and digital management, all while emphasizing ethics and integrity. The program’s unique design makes it the first of its kind in the Philippines, setting a benchmark for grassroots governance training nationwide.

Mayor Lacuna emphasized the role of the ABG program in fostering ethical and effective governance, noting its impact on improving service delivery at the barangay level and promoting sustainable community development. She also commended UDM and its partners for their vision and dedication in making the program a reality, underscoring the importance of collaboration in achieving meaningful progress.

The inclusion of the ABG program in the SOCA underscores its success and significance, further cementing UDM’s role as a leading institution in community empowerment. The program continues to pave the way for future-ready barangay leaders who are well-equipped to serve their communities with integrity and excellence. This recognition by Mayor Lacuna highlights the City of Manila’s unwavering commitment to innovation and leadership in local governance.