2023 Award "Best Practice in Citizen Participation"

The "DAGYAW" Town Hall Meeting in Ormoc City, Leyte, Philippines, took place in a thriving cultural, geographical, historical, institutional, and economic environment. This context sheds light on the event's significance and influence.

Ormoc City's culture is deeply rooted in Visayan traditions and influenced by indigenous people and Spanish colonization. The cultural context of "DAGYAW" inspired attendees to communicate their admiration and understanding, establishing a sense of affiliation and connection.

Geographically, the natural beauty and diversity of Ormoc City's landscapes affected the discussions and activities at "DAGYAW," emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable development in decision-making. Ormoc City has a great historical significance in the Philippines, which gives depth and purpose to the city.

Institutionally, key institutions and organizations within Ormoc City supported the event. The Office of the Majority Floor Leader, 16th Sangguniang Panlungsod, led the coordination and organization of “DAGYAW”, highlighting the importance of governance and democratic processes. Other institutions, such as the City Mayor's Office and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, contributed their expertise and resources to ensure the success of the event.

Ormoc City is a dynamic metropolitan center with a developing economy. The socioeconomic context of "DAGYAW" represented the community's hopes and challenges. It served as a forum for addressing socioeconomic gaps, promoting inclusive growth, and exploring the potential for long-term development.

The origins of "DAGYAW" may be traced back to the region's need for inclusive and participatory governance. The town hall model, inspired by democratic principles, provided a forum for dialogue, collaboration, and empowerment. Its goal was to involve residents in crafting municipal policies and projects, acknowledging the value of their input in decision-making processes.

The goals of "DAGYAW" included encouraging inclusive and participatory governance, involving stakeholders in decision-making processes, and recognizing the value of incorporating residents in influencing local policy.

Key partners such as the City Mayor's Office, the City Planning and Development Office, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government actively coordinated the "DAGYAW" technique. Civil society organizations (CSOs) actively participated, and Facebook Live was used to reach a wider audience. The technique also included resource person presentations, an open forum for discussion, and a motivational speech from Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez.

The "DAGYAW" Town Hall Meeting displayed creativity in a variety of ways. The use of Facebook Live increased the event's reach while also promoting inclusivity and openness. Quick talks and effective time management ensured focused presentations and detailed conversations. Innovative solutions to logistical and participation issues, such as scheduling, were offered.

• More information: https://ormoc.gov.ph/ (External link)