The City Government of Malaybalay, through the City Budget Office hosted the Second Monday Convocation program held at the City Hall Parklot in Casisang, Malaybalay City on October 9, 2023.

Led by City Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran , along with the attendance of Vice Mayor Estelito Marabe and, city officials, employees, and representatives from various national agencies, the event aimed to present the significance of participatory budgeting in achieving good governance.

Under the theme, “Participatory Budgeting Results Good Governance,” the convocation invited guest speaker, Rudylia C. Parrel, Regional Director of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM)-Region 10.

Director Parrel emphasized the importance of active citizen participation through Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the planning phase of government programs, projects, and activities. She highlighted that while citizens may not make final decisions, their input and recommendations play a pivotal role in ensuring that government initiatives are responsive to the needs of all, especially the vulnerable sectors of society.

This approach fosters commitment among stakeholders and promotes transparency, accountability, integrity, partnership, sustainability, and the overall national interest. Moreover, it helps break down barriers that may exist between the government and citizens, she added.

Director Parrel stated that participatory governance is the new approach to bridge the gap between local government and its citizens, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and engagement.

Mayor Pabillaran echoed this sentiment in his address, calling for a genuine change in governance that eliminates the barriers of indifference between the government and its citizens. He stressed that it is a shared responsibility for citizens to be informed and actively participate in examining the plans and programs of their barangays and the city government as a whole.

The event highlighted its commitment of creating a more transparent, accountable, and responsive government for the betterment of its people.