DEVELOPING UPDATES: LGU Kapalong Triumphs at 2024 Galing Pook Awards

by Nicholas Sam C. Gabito

Fri, Oct 25, 2024 5:55 AM

Taguig City, Metro Manila — In a remarkable achievement for local governance, the Local Government Unit of Kapalong has been named one of the 10 winners of the prestigious 2024 Galing Pook Awards. The announcement, made on October 24, 2024, at the Samsung Hall in SM Aura, Taguig City, recognized Kapalong's innovative entry: the Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences, and Technology (KCAST): The First Local College in Region XI.The Galing Pook Awards, established in 1993, honor outstanding local government initiatives that promote innovative and effective governance. The awards aim to recognize exemplary local governance practices that significantly contribute to positive community outcomes and sustainable development, encouraging municipalities to adopt similar initiatives.Under the dynamic leadership of Municipal Mayor Maria Theresa Timbol, Kapalong distinguished itself among 147 official entries. After a rigorous selection process that narrowed the entries down to 47, site validation took place, further reducing the number to 18. Kapalong ultimately earned its place among the finalists following a challenging oral defense held at Landbank Plaza in Manila on October 23, 2024.In her comprehensive and impactful presentation, Mayor Timbol vividly illustrated KCAST's transformative role in the community, especially in Barangay Gupitan, an Indigenous Peoples community historically underserved in education, with tangible examples of improved educational access and outcomes. “Our mission is to bring education to marginalized areas and empower individuals through knowledge,” she stated.KCAST, established in 2005, is more than just an educational institution; it represents a beacon of hope and resilience for the local population. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern agricultural practices, KCAST has produced 4,649 graduates since 2009, with numerous success stories showcasing how this approach has significantly increased their employability, fostering personal growth and professional development.Highlighting the personal stories of change, Mayor Timbol shared the journey of Maria, an Ata-Manobo woman who transformed her life through education at KCAST. Graduates like Maria are now contributing to their communities as educators, farmers, and entrepreneurs, thereby significantly contributing to improve their respective communities.KCAST's commitment to culturally sensitive education has fostered pride and ownership within the community, aligning with national development goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in quality education and food security.The recognition at the Galing Pook Awards is a testament to Kapalong's dedication to sustainable development and peacebuilding, exemplified by initiatives such as community sustainability projects and peacebuilding programs. Mayor Timbol emphasized, “This award is not just for us; it’s for every individual in Kapalong who believes in the power of education and community.”The final oral defense involved the participation of the members of the Galing Pook Technical Working Group, including Arnel L. Panimbo, MPA-LG, the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Officer; Dr. Rodrigo C. Licayan, Jr., KCAST College President; and Dr. Ronel G. Dagohoy, Vice President for Research and Extension. Dr. Dominic M. Dizon, the Public Schools District Supervisor of DepED-Langilan District, and Maria Corina R. Timbol, the Municipal Administrator, were present during the final oral defense to provide their expertise and support.In a further celebration of this achievement, a presidential awarding ceremony will take place on October 25, 2024, at Malacañang Palace, where Kapalong will be formally honored by the President of the Philippines.As the Galing Pook Awards continue to celebrate local government initiatives that bring about positive change, Kapalong’s success underscores the potential of local governance in addressing education disparities and fostering community empowerment, offering valuable lessons for other municipalities on effective strategies for promoting inclusive education and community empowerment.LGU-Kapalong's distinction as the sole local government unit from Mindanao to secure a spot in this year's Galing Pook Awards highlights its exceptional efforts in promoting inclusive education and community empowerment.The prestigious award has solidified Kapalong's reputation as a trailblazer in innovative and impactful governance practices. This recognition serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the local government officials and the community as a whole.

Municipality of Kapalong

Quezon St. Maniki (Poblacion), Kapalong Davao del Norte, 8113

DEVELOPING UPDATES: LGU Kapalong Triumphs at 2024 Galing Pook Awards

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Quezon St. Maniki (Poblacion), Kapalong Davao del Norte, 8113

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