To ensure the effective implementation of its flagship leadership program for newly elected officials, the Local Government Academy (LGA), in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) XII, conducted the Orientation for Capacity Development Managers on Performing Leadership and Uplifting Service Orientation (NEO PLUS+++) at Venue 88 Hotel, General Santos City.

This orientation serves as a critical preparatory activity for regional training managers and field implementers who will take the lead in cascading the NEO PLUS+++ Program across all levels of local government. Designed to foster excellence in leadership, ethical governance, and citizen-focused service, the Program aims to guide new local leaders in building resilient, inclusive, and empowered communities.

In his message, DILG XII Assistant Regional Director Engr. Samuel Camaganacan said on behalf of the Regional Director Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero, CESE, that through this program, we aim to empower leaders who can navigate complexity, lead with courage, and serve with compassion. “Let us not simply teach leadership. Let us model it. Let us not promote good governance, but let us live it in every interaction, every policy decision, and every act of public service. Because in the end, our legacy will not be measured by our positions or our plans, but by the lives we uplift, the trust we sustain, and the communities we empower” he added.

During the sessions, participants were introduced to:

1. CAPDEV Programs for DILG and LGUs LGA Programs and Fund Support;

2. NEO PLUS Program Framework;

3. Refresher Course for Re-Elected Officials;

4. Capacity Development Managers Toolkit;

5. Capacity Development Needs of LGUs;

6. Current Practices of the DILG in Communicating the SLG to its Stakeholders;

7. Executive Briefing;

8. Enhancing Persuasion Skills: Pitching; and

9. Action Planning.

Workshops and open forums also allowed participants to share insights, experiences, and challenges in program delivery, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

As the country transitions to new leadership at the local level, the DILG and LGA underscores the importance of preparing our coaches and trainers. The orientation reaffirms the Department’s commitment to strengthening the capacities of its coaches and trainers and ensuring that every NEO training reflects integrity, relevance, and service excellence.

This multi-level approach to capacity development underlines the Department’s goal of achieving empowered local government units led by competent, ethical, and citizen-oriented officials.

With this, the NEO Program is not only a training initiative but a movement for transformative, inclusive, and uplifting leadership.