The Ateneo de Naga University Social Involvement Council-Governance Area of Concern spearheaded by the Center for Local Governance, conducted the series of Training on Voters’ Education dubbed as Kuwentuhang Bayan: Manalangin. Manindigan. Makialam, a module which was adopted from the Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan.

The activity aims to impart to the participants especially to the 1^st time voters of their vital roles in co-building a clear and transparent society. Specifically, participants are expected to achieve the following: (1) instill basic understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of politics; (2) help participants discern not only about 2016 elections but also other socio-political issues that they are confronted with on a day-to-day basis; and (3) provide a space for participants to come-up with an action plan which will address both local and national issues.

During the Training, the participants have actively participated in the following Sessions: Introducing Kuwentuhang Bayan; An Engaged Citizen; Engaging the Nation; Towards and Beyond 2016 Elections; Our National Situationer; Politics and Engaged Citizenship; Duties of Elected Officials; and Church’s Social Teaching. The highlight was the crafting of individual Commitment Pledge by the participants and the formulation of Action Plans in line with the 2016 elections and beyond.

The trainings were conducted on 3 March 2016 for barangays Cabugao, Flordeliz and Mayaopayawan, Milaor Camarines Sur and 10 March 2016 for barangays Fundado, San Nicolas and San Roque, Canaman, Camarines Sur. It was attended by the members of the Sangguniang Barangays, Task Force on Youth Development and sectoral representatives.

The trainer-cum-facilitators were Benita Michele C. Verdadero of Center for Local Governance, Noel DL. Amador of the University Student Recruitment Office and Leonides O. Borras of the Center for Community Development together with the Student-Volunteers Thrisia A. Sarcilla from the College of Engineering and Kimberly G. Ferrariz from the College of Education.

 By Benita Michele C. Verdadero