By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan, June 20, 2025; Philippine News Agency
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1252580
MANILA – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said Friday all free training courses under the 2025 Newly Elected Officials Performing Leadership for Uplifting Service (NEO PLUS) Program will begin next month.
In a statement, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the NEO PLUS Program is designed to support newly elected local leaders in carrying out their fresh mandate.
The program kicks off with the holding of executive briefings by DILG field officers and local government unit (LGU) transition teams on July 1.
He said these briefings would guide newly elected officials through the leadership transition process and set priorities for their first 100 days in office.
The program also includes the Course on Strategic Leadership for Good Governance for first-time elected officials, while returning officials will undergo a refresher course on Transformative Leadership for Elevated Governance.
The NEO PLUS is a three-year capacity development initiative led by the DILG’s Local Government Academy (LGA) aimed at equipping local officials with the tools and skills to lead effectively and responsibly, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen local governance and public service delivery.
The LGA is currently completing training and orientation for capacity development managers across all 17 regions in preparation for the program rollout.
Participants include elected local officials, such as governors, vice governors, mayors, vice mayors, council members, and designated local functionaries.
The DILG continues to urge newly elected leaders to take part in the NEO PLUS Program to strengthen their leadership capacities, promote effective local governance, and ensure a responsive and citizen-centered public service.
Barangay tanods strengthen school safety
Meanwhile, the DILG lauded the barangay tanods (village police) for their vital role in ensuring a safe environment around schools as they manage traffic, watch entry points, and offer visible support to parents, teachers, and students.
“Our barangay tanods are in schools to ensure the safety of students. They are in the streets to ensure the safety of the community. Their presence offers a sense of protection and comfort,” Remulla said in a separate statement.
Remulla also encouraged local governments to continue investing in capacity building and recognition for tanods, equipping them with radios, vests, and standard training.
He said this supports the Department of Education’s goal of ensuring safe learning environments through joint efforts between education and security agencies.