Innovative, creative solutions to social problems

Let us not rely so much upon the government to solve every problem in our society. Let us do our fair share by proposing innovative and creative solutions to social problems. Simply put, let us not depend on government-centered solutions.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government usually issues a memorandum circular to local government units (LGUs), especially after national and local elections regarding guidelines on accreditation and recognition of civil society organizations and selection of representatives to the local special bodies. This, in a nutshell, is an embodiment of empowering us by getting us involved in the crafting of plans and programs, projects, activities, and services of the LGUs through our membership in local special bodies like the local health board, local school board, local peace and order council, local development council, local prequalification, bids, and awards committee, and people’s law enforcement board.

The selection of representatives to these local special bodies is usually scheduled on the first to the second week of September, and their reconstitution and convening is usually on the third week of September.

It is expected that after the accreditation period, LGUs should have an updated directory of civil society organizations, containing a list of organizations operating within their turfs which are accredited or recognized by their respective sanggunians. With the accredited civil society organizations, the local special bodies of the LGUs, with all intents and purposes, shall be operational, thus giving us the opportunity and responsibility to work in tandem with the government in solving problems besetting our society.

Let us grab this golden opportunity to engage with the government on matters affecting our lives as citizens.

REGINALD B. TAMAYO,Marikina City