The presenters, reactors, and former 91ÆÞÓÑPresident Dr. Eduardo Gonzalez, who moderated the online discussion

Moderated by former 91ÆÞÓÑPresident Dr. Eduardo Gonzalez, the session provided invaluable insights into various issues surrounding policy research. Distinguished speakers including Gilbert Lumantao, Director of DAP’s CFG-Policy Research Office; Merwin Salazar, Executive Director of the Senate Economic Planning Office; Novel Bangsal, Executive Director of the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Development; and Dr. Geraldo Petilla, Chief Administrative Officer of the National Research Council of the Philippines – Finance and Administrative Division, illuminated the significance of policy research in governance and national development.

Key topics explored during the session included the role of political will in policy research processes, the importance of establishing clear mandates to avoid redundancy in research outputs, and the relevance of scientific research and technological advancements in shaping the government’s policy research agenda.

Salazar emphasized how policy research shapes effective governance and national development by influencing policymakers’ understanding of issues and the implications of policy options. Bangsal highlighted increasing risks to shared prosperity, such as unsustainable economic growth, unemployment and underemployment, and increasing social inequality. He stressed the need for a calibrated approach to collaboration between the national and local governments.

Dr. Petilla elaborated on the whole-of-government and evidence-based transdisciplinary approach guiding the NRCP’s policy research priorities, emphasizing the importance of dialogue between researchers, legislators, and local chief executives. Lumantao discussed DAP’s role as a government think tank, providing research-driven technical assistance and training to aid public managers and organizations in developing and evaluating sound public policiesÌý and establishing systems integrity.

Dr. Jalton Taguibao, Associate Professor at the University of the Philippines Diliman-Department of Political Science, and Maxine Tanya Hamada, Advocacy Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids country coordinator, offered perspectives from academia and civil society. Dr. Taguibao emphasized the ubiquitous nature of policy research in the policy-making process, while Ms. Hamada stressed the importance of technically sound and politically feasible research.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Gonzalez underscored the importance of policy research, stating, ‘Policy research needs resuscitation not because smart politicians interfere, but simply because it takes hard work to design a system that both allows efficient collective decisions and protects the legitimate interests of various constituents, including the poor and the marginalized.’

The discussion aimed to initiate collaborative efforts in shaping a policy research agenda, contributing to evidence-based policymaking in government. The full video coverage of the event is available at the .

Washington, D.C., April 30, 2024 – Dr. Majah-Leah V. Ravago, President and CEO of the 91ÆÞÓÑ (DAP), played a pivotal role in an intensive in-person table-top exercise (TTX) held on April 22-23, 2024, in Washington, D.C. The event, which focused on Philippine energy security and US-Philippine alliance coordination, brought together American and Filipino scholars and experts for two days of strategic dialogue and planning.

The TTX delved into strategies for meeting the Philippines’ burgeoning energy needs while considering the broader implications of energy security on regional geopolitics and effective alliance coordination. Dr. Ravago, alongside other esteemed participants, offered comprehensive insights into the interconnected dynamics of energy stability and international relations.

Organized by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a renowned bipartisan and nonprofit policy institution, the event featured three modules:

1. Philippine Energy Investment Decisions and Tradeoffs

2. Energy Security and Geostrategic Vulnerabilities

3. Energy Security and US-Philippine Maritime Crisis Response

Each module provided a platform for rigorous discussion and scenario-based exercises aimed at addressing critical challenges facing the Philippines in energy security and alliance coordination.

Dr. Ravago’s active involvement underscored DAP’s commitment to shaping policy discussions and fostering cooperation on vital issues affecting the Philippines and its alliances. Her expertise and leadership contributed to the development of pragmatic strategies to navigate complex energy and security landscapes.

The TTX highlighted the importance of collaboration between the US and the Philippines in ensuring regional stability and resilience in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges. As energy security continues to gain prominence in international relations, forums like these play a crucial role in shaping informed policies and strategies.

Drawing 30 participants from key government agencies including the Department of Transportation, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Dr. Jose N Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium, Technological University of the Philippines, Metropolitan Manila Waterworks and Sewerage System, and the Local Government Unit of Macalelon, Quezon, the workshop served as a hub for innovative thinking and collaboration.

During the intensive sessions, participants were equipped with an arsenal of tools and techniques including Crazy 8s, Design Charettes, the SCAMPER technique, Affinity Diagrams, and storyboarding. These resources aimed to sharpen their creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to think outside the box, empowering them to ideate and develop groundbreaking solutions for enhancing public services.

The workshop series forms a vital component of the Productivity Challenge Program led by the 91ÆÞÓÑCOE-PSP. This program is designed to cultivate a culture of innovation, increase efficiency, and elevate the quality of public service delivery by fostering consciousness, productivity, and imaginative thinking within public sector organizations.

Through initiatives like the Fastbreak Workshop Series, 91ÆÞÓÑcontinues to drive forward-thinking approaches to address the evolving needs of citizens and propel public sector productivity to new heights.

For more information on the Productivity Challenge, please visit: https://productivitychallenge.dap.edu.ph/

Tagaytay City, April 29, 2024 – The 91ÆÞÓÑ, through its Center for CES Development. launched the sixth batch of its well-regarded Public Management Development Program Phronetic Leadership Class at the 91ÆÞÓÑConference Center.

A distinguished group of 13 high-level officials representing nine government agencies participated in the leadership training program featuring a unique blend of stimulating knowledge creation activities facilitated by the Japanese expert Dr. Hideki Kawada.

Tagaytay City, April 11, 2024 – The 91ÆÞÓÑ (DAP) proudly marked the culmination of the Public Management Development Program’s (PMDP) Middle Managers Class Batch 31 – Karakoa and Senior Executives Class Batch 12 – Sikhay, as 63 scholars concluded their transformative journey during the 28th Graduation Ceremony.

Dr. Majah-Leah V. Ravago, 91ÆÞÓÑpresident and chief executive officer, reiterated the pivotal role of 91ÆÞÓÑin nurturing visionary government leaders, empowering them with the requisite skills and perspectives to drive innovation and development in their respective agencies.Ìý

The event culminated with the conferment of academic equivalencies upon the scholars, symbolizing their profound commitment to excellence and service to the nation. Notably, four scholars from each class distinguished themselves with honors, including Jerry Cruz of the Department of Education (DepEd), Wilfimell Tolentino-Macaraeg of the Development Bank of the Philippines, Erick John Marmol of the Philippine Science High School System, and Caridad Santos of the Philippine Children’s Medical Center from the SEC Batch 12. Similarly, Jeanne Marjorie Oliveros of the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries, Julia Jornales of the DepEd, Maria Veronica Eslao of the National Economic and Development Authority, and Melpe Jean Maghanoy of the Department of Social Welfare and Development of MMC Batch 31 graduated with honors.Ìý

The esteemed titles of Class Valedictorian were awarded to Enrique Gascon, Jr. of the DSWD and Mary Cherry Lynn Tabernilla of the DepEd for their for the SEC Batch 12 and MMC Batch 31, respectively. Gascon further distinguished himself by clinching theÌý Leadership Award and Outstanding Capstone Paper Award. Similarly, Fermo B. Avila of the Securities and Exchange Commission was honored with the Leadership Award for the MMC Batch 31, while Mark Anthony Viernes (DSWD), Dan Henry Ramirez of the Maritime Industry Authority, and Michelle Loyolo of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation were lauded for their outstanding Capstone Projects.

Reflecting on their transformative journey, Gascon and Tabernilla delivered Valedictory Addresses, reminiscing on shared trials and triumphs while emphasizing the paramount importance of ethical leadership, meaningful connections, and personal growth.

The solemn recitation of the pledge, led by PLTCOL Anthony Landig, chief of staff to the DILG Undersecretary, symbolized the scholars’ steadfast commitment to upholding the values of integrity, excellence, and public service.Ìý Members of MMC Batch 29 – Talaghay, Batch 30 – Sillag, and SEC Batch 11 – GaBayAniÌý welcomed the new alumni.

As a testament to scholars’ legacy, brass markers were unveiled for both batches, immortalizing their names on the hallowed halls of 91ÆÞÓÑConference Center in Tagaytay City.Ìý

Titled “Strengthening Public Accountability and Participatory Governance for Sustainable Development,” the lecture, held at the House of Representatives, attracted a diverse audience from the Philippine Congress eager to explore concepts of and local dynamics in governance. Sheena Carmina Mateo, CBILLS program manager, discussed this year’s theme, “Anchoring Sustainable Philippine Development in the Pillars of Innovative and Participatory Governance,” emphasizing the transformative potential of innovation in bolstering governance structures for inclusive, resilient, and sustainable futures.

Lecture 1 Resource Persons during the Open Forum: (From left to right) Vice President Imelda C. Caluen (Moderator), Dr. Maria Ela L. Atienza, and Atty. Reverie Pure Sapaen

The first session opened with Atty. Reverie Pure Sapaen, director of the National Economic and Development Authority-Governance Staff, exploring public accountability and participatory governance within the framework of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. Atty. Sapaen linked these principles with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), outlining the nation’s progress, challenges, opportunities, and best practices for strengthening public accountability to help the country achieve these goals.

Dr. Maria Ela Atienza, professor at the University of the Philippines (UP)-Department of Political Science, provided a conceptual understanding of inclusive governance and democracy, globally and within Philippine political institutions. Dr. Atienza shed light on the implications of the global democratic landscape in the country, stressing the need for genuine empowerment for sustainable development.Ìý She introduced a collaborative project between International IDEA and UP, offering local indicators for assessment, recommendations, and opportunities for strengthening the Philippine political system and institutions for development. In her closing statement, she emphasized, “Sustainable development cannot be achieved without genuine empowerment of people on the ground.”

Class picture of scholars together with the invited resource speakers and for the CBILLS 2024 Thursday Talks Lecture 1 at the Romualdez Hall, House of Representatives

In the succeeding segment, 91ÆÞÓÑVice President Imelda Caluen moderated the open forum where scholars from the Philippine Congress engaged in vibrant discussions on SDG16 indicators, strategies for authentic participation, corruption mitigation, and their alignment with the Philippine Development Plan.

The CBILLS Thursday Talks Series, implemented by the DAP’s Center for Governance, highlights the Academy’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration toward achieving inclusive and sustainable development goals.

– Ziona Gilia Castro

The intensive workshop convened 23 participants who were equipped with tools and techniques essential for ideating and developing innovative solutions tailored to enhance public services. Among the methodologies used were Crazy 8s, collaborative Design Charrettes, the inventive SCAMPER technique, strategic Affinity Diagrams, and compelling Storyboards.

The participants hailed from six government agencies and state universities and colleges including the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, Siniloan Water District, Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Eastern Samar State University, and Negros Oriental State University.

The 2024 Fastbreak: 100K Transaction Hours Reduced initiative stands as a beacon within the Productivity Challenge Program. Spearheaded by the 91ÆÞÓÑCOE-PSP, this multi-year project is designed to raise awareness and enhance the productivity and innovation of public-sector organizations nationwide. Moreover, it aims to foster a culture of innovation and improve productivity, ultimately elevating the quality of service delivery.

For more information on the Productivity Challenge, please visit: https://productivitychallenge.dap.edu.ph/

18 April 2024, Pasig City, Philippines – 91ÆÞÓÑPresident and CEO, Dr. Majah-Leah Ravago, welcomed more than 100 key representatives of national government agencies, local government units, and private sector organizations to the first Smart City Convention organized by the 91ÆÞÓÑ at the Marco Polo Ortigas.

The event served as a venue for dialogue and collaboration among smart city stakeholders, highlighted by the official turnover of the Smart City Roadmap Report to the City Government of Malolos, the beneficiary agency for the pilot implementation of DAP’sÌýLinking Innovation Partners towards Accelerated Development in the Philippines (LIPAD PH) Program.

The event was graced by Department of Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum, Department of Budget and Management Assistant Secretary Clarito Alejandro Magsino, Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of Industry Planning and Innovation Director Lilian Salonga, Department of the Interior and Local Government-Bureau of Local Government Development Assistant Director Maria Angela Monica SaludÌý Mamuyac, and CLIXLogic, Inc. President and CEO Charlie Fernando.

Makati City– In a pivotal moment demonstrating their shared commitment to excellence, Dr. Majah-Leah Ravago, president and chief executive officer of the 91ÆÞÓÑ (DAP), and Atty. Marius Corpus, chairperson of the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG), came together to sign the DAP’s Strategy Map and 2024 Performance Scorecard. The signing took place during the GCG-91ÆÞÓÑPerformance Target Conference at the GCG office in Makati City on April 16, 2024

The ceremony underscores the DAP’s unwavering dedication to fulfilling its committed targets. Notable attendees included 91ÆÞÓÑofficers such as Senior Vice President Monina A.R. De Armas, Senior Executive Fellow and Vice President Alan S. Cajes, Marilyn P. Son, and Catherine S. Luzuriaga, alongside GCG officials Commissioner Atty. Geraldine Marie B. Berberabe-Martinez, Executive Director Atty. Johan Carlos S. Barcena, CESO III, Officer in Charge for Corporate Governance Office, Director Kenneth M. Rafols, CPA, and Executive Assistant for the Office of the Commissioner Enrico Gabriel R. Paguia.