The workshop brought together key regional stakeholders—including representatives from local government units (LGUs), national governments agencies, and civil society— under the Planning Committee on Climate Action and Disaster Resilience. The aim was to assess regional performance, recalibrate development strategies, and strengthen the alignment of programs with climate and disaster risk challenges.

Structured into four focused sessions, the workshop tackled the following:

Workshop 1: Validated the region’s performance in the CADR sector;

Workshop 2: Refined the regional development framework and sector outcomes;

Workshop 3: Updated the Results Matrix—key indicators, targets, strategies, and legislative agenda; and

Workshop 4: Reviewed and enhanced the regional Programs, Projects, and Activities (PPAs) for strategic coherence and implementation readiness.

Representing the Department, DILG Region 8’s Local Government Capability Development Division (LGCDD) Chief Rudith A. Roca played an active role in the validation and planning sessions. Drawing from the Department’s extensive engagement with LGUs throughout the region, she contributed insights that helped ensure local perspectives and challenges were clearly reflected in the regional planning outputs.

In a statement, DILG Region 8 Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe underscored the importance of inclusive and data-driven planning:

“Participatory planning allows us to see the real picture on the ground and to listen to those who are directly affected by climate and disaster risks. Through joint assessment of our ongoing efforts, we can better identify the gaps, challenges, and opportunities—and translate these into targeted, responsive, and sustainable interventions.”

DILG Region 8 remains steadfast in supporting local governments as they confront the growing challenges of climate change and natural hazards. Through its continued involvement in regional planning efforts, the Department ensures that local realities inform broader development priorities—advancing a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Eastern Visayas.