In a landmark move to promote inclusive governance and sustainable community development, the City Government of Isabela, represented by Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, and The Lab, represented by Managing Director Vicente Roxas, formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during The Lab’s visit on May 20 at the Basilan Provincial Capitol, Sta. Clara, Lamitan City.
The event was also attended by Governor Mujiv Hataman, highlighting the collaborative effort between the city and provincial governments. Also present were 1st District Board Member Atty. Faigdar Jaafar, 2nd District Board Member Dr. Nur Khan Istarul, LEDIPO Chief Jaime Juanito Rivera, as well as KM Magtubo, Nisha Alicer, ML Cunanan, and Inez Quimzon from The Lab.
During the engagement, The Lab conducted a series of workshops, site visits, interviews, and consultations using the Participatory, Emancipatory Action Research (PEAR) methodology, where they shared their insights and development initiatives. These activities actively engaged local stakeholders in the installation of the Community OS and strengthened collaboration with members of the Technical Working Group.
The team also validated previously gathered data for the Social Accounting Matrix and identified potential locations for Community Management Centers. New field researchers and project leads were introduced to partner offices and community representatives, ensuring continuity and alignment in project implementation.
During the presentation, Dru Baltazar shared a proposed system for the which envisioned to serve as a centralized public address and communication platform designed to strengthen the city government’s connection with its constituents. The system will feature an automated text and message blast capability, enabling the local government to efficiently disseminate important announcements, emergency advisories, program updates, and other public information across all barangays in real time. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
