4 outstanding local leaders to discuss good governance

CEBU – Local government leaders who are epitome of good governance are expected to inspire other leaders, in spite of political odds, as they serve as speakers in a half-day forum on November 20 at the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center.

Isabela Governor Ma. Grace Cielo Padaca, Pampanga Governor Eddie Panlilio, Mayor Ramon Piang of Upi in Maguindanao, and Naga City Mayor Jessea Robredo of Camarines Sur are invited to share their knowledge and expertise in the “Understanding Choices Forum”.

These leaders were chosen based on their awards as best examples of political leaders who have steered local development through their leadership, values and practice of transparency and accountability which they are to pass on to other leaders.

The forum, to start at 1 p.m., will focus on “Taking Charge of Development: Mainstreaming Good Governance” and will be participated in by local chief executives, members of the civil society, and business leaders, among others.

The gathering, organized by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., is envisioned to serve as a venue where other local leaders could draw inspiration and example from the four distinguished leaders. This way, RAFI upholds its vision of touching people and shaping the future.

Meanwhile, there will be a free three-day seminar-workshop on “Risk Preparedness for Cultural Heritage” at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral Museum from November 19 to 21.

Its objectives are to create awareness on risk preparedness for cultural heritage and to understand the need for integrated emergency management in the context of heritage structures, sites, museums, and galleries.

The workshop is the first in a series of emergency preparedness on built heritage seminar in the face of natural and man-made recurring disasters, and is made possible through the efforts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as well as the National Museum.

There will be lectures in integrated emergency management, risk analysis, disaster response strategies, fire prevention, recovery, and evacuation exercises.

The organizers are inviting heritage owners or administrators, parish priest, museum curators, and custodians who have direct involvement in the protection and maintenance of their heritage structures to avail of the workshop.

Also, a visit to heritage sites in Carcar City is scheduled on the last day of the event. — Jessica Ann Pareja/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)