Manila: The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Ilocos Norte is urging civil society organizations (CSOs) to apply for accreditation to enhance their representation in local governance through Local Special Bodies (LSBs).
According to Philippines News Agency, the DILG, in partnership with the provincial government, convened representatives from various CSOs at Centennial Arena to discuss the accreditation process and its significance. DILG provincial director Gerald Gallardo emphasized the importance of raising awareness about civil society participation in local governance and orienting participants on accreditation guidelines.
The conference, attended by approximately 45 CSOs from the province, served as a platform for these groups to offer feedback on local government units' plans, programs, and policies. Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos expressed her support, assuring participants of the provincial government's readiness to consider their advocacies and concerns.
The initiative corresponds with the execution of Memorandum Circular No. 2025-060, which provides guidelines for CSO accreditation and the selection of LSB representatives. These include Local Development Councils, Local School Boards, Local Health Boards, and Local Peace and Order Councils.
CSOs interested in accreditation must submit a letter of application, a board resolution indicating their intent for accreditation and LSB representation, a certificate of registration or valid accreditation from a national agency, and a list of current officers. Organizations operating for at least one year are also required to provide minutes from their previous annual meeting, a certified accomplishment report, and a financial statement. The application deadline is August 30.