BAGUIO CITY – Eight Local Government Operations Officers (LGOOs) in the region have officially started their LGOO apprenticeship journey of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to equip them with the necessary core, functional and leadership competencies that will prepare them to assume the roles and responsibilities of higher LGOO positions.
“The Department recognizes the immense potential these eight Cordillera LGOOs hold. They embody the values of integrity, accountability, and service, which are the bedrock of effective local governance. Their journey is not just about personal growth and professional development; it is about contributing to the betterment of our region and our nation as a whole,” said Araceli San Jose, Regional Director of DILG CAR.
She said that during the apprenticeship program, the trainees will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the intricacies of local government operations. “They will learn from experienced mentors, gain hands-on experience, and acquire practical skills that are crucial for effective governance. This program is designed to nurture their talents, refine their abilities, and equip them with the tools they need to become exemplary leaders in their respective fields,” she added.
RD San Jose also said that the LGOOs have been selected for this apprenticeship journey because of their exceptional potential, passion for public service, and commitment to making a difference.
She also called on the trainees to embrace the opportunity with enthusiasm and determination, open to new ideas, absorb knowledge like a sponge, and seek guidance from facilitators.
“Remember that this is not just a job; it is a calling to serve our communities with utmost dedication and sincerity. As you embark on this apprenticeship journey, keep in mind the significance of your role. The decisions you make, the actions you take, and the relationships you build will have a direct impact on the lives of the people you serve,” she said.
“The Apprenticeship Program for Local Government Operations Officers II and III is a mandatory requirement for LGOOs to be promoted to higher positions,” said LGOO V Shaquille L. Buraga who also serves as the apprenticeship coordinator for the Cordillera’s 55th batch.
He explained that the training is being administered by the Local Government Academy (LGA), the training arm of the department in collaboration with DILG bureaus, services, and regional offices, adding, “the Program supports the DILG’s primary mandates of effective supervision and capacity development of local governments through the development of corps of competent personnel.”
Buraga also said that for LGOOs to qualify for the program, they should have performed the functions of their position as LGOO II or III for at least 6 months prior to the cut-off date specified by the LGA.
Likewise, the apprentice must be able to pass the requirements of each program component namely: General Orientation, Foundation Course, Supervised Field Work, Competency Assessment, and Revalida to be eligible for a Certificate of Completion.
Also, 156 apprentices from other DILG bureaus, regional/provincial offices have met the minimum requirements for participation in the program and will undergo training from May 2 to December 5, 2023 employing a flexible learning approach which is a combination of online learning and traditional in-person classroom instruction.
At present, the LGOOs are as follows: DILG Apayao LGOO II Nilo Campo; DILG Baguio LGOO III Sesvir Lopez; DILG Kalinga LGOO III Engelbert Jack Gamatero; DILG Abra LGOO II Krystel Navarro; DILG Baguio LGOO III Joe Pablo Gernale; DILG Ifugao LGOO II Clifford Pataueg; DILG Benguet LGOO II Lala Geron; and DILG Abra LGOO II Allen John Tuanquin.
They are currently participating in Component 1 of the training known as the program’s Foundational Course: Local Government Dynamics. By PMTG
