RAFI, UP-NCPAG Advance Good Governance Through Bugsay Executive Course
Strong local leadership remains at the heart of responsive governance and sustainable development.
Across the country, local government units (LGUs) play a critical role in delivering services, shaping policies, and engaging communities. Yet as challenges grow more complex, there is a growing need to strengthen leadership practices, build shared learning spaces, and support leaders in navigating both local and global realities.
In response, the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), in partnership with the University of the Philippines – National College of Public Administration and Governance (UP-NCPAG) through its Center for Leadership, Citizenship and Democracy (CLCD), and with support from the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev), continues to advance platforms that elevate leadership and governance in the Philippines.
Central to this effort is the launch of the Bugsay Leadership & Governance Executive Course, a leadership development initiative designed to strengthen the practice of governance among local leaders. The course aims to foster a culture of excellence, deepen leadership competencies, and support the scaling of effective governance approaches that build public trust and deliver meaningful results for communities.
“Local leadership matters, and meaningful change comes from leadership that is personally committed, governance that involves stakeholders, and communities that are engaged with a clear purpose,” said Amaya A. Fansler, RAFI President and COO.
The Executive Course builds on RAFI’s broader work of enabling communities by investing in leadership that is collaborative, adaptive, and grounded in real-world challenges. It provides a space for leaders to learn from experience, reflect on governance practices, and develop strategies that respond to the needs of their constituents.
Leaders’ Forum
As part of this initiative, RAFI and its partners convened for a Leaders’ Forum on April 28, 2026 at Crimson Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City. The gathering brought together more than 20 Cebu mayors from across the province, along with key partners and national speakers.
The forum served as a platform for peer-to-peer exchange, bringing together local leaders to share experiences, surface common challenges, and explore solutions across key areas such as health, education, technology, community engagement, and youth development. It also created space to reflect on how global developments, including the ongoing Middle East conflict, may influence local governance and decision-making.
The event opened with welcome remarks from Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cynthia “Cindi” Chan, followed by a message of support from Cebu Governor Pamela “Pam” Baricuatro, who underscored the importance of collaboration and the sharing of best practices among local government leaders.
Featured speakers included Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who discussed transforming local governance for social impact; Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, represented by Mendry-Ann Lim, City Information Officer and Gender and Development Focal Person, who spoke on community engagement; and Congressman Javier Miguel Benitez, former mayor of Victorias City and current representative of the 3rd District of Negros Occidental, who shared insights on the role of technology in local economic development and accountability.
Sessions on sectoral priorities were also highlighted, including a talk on health by Del Carmen, Siargao Mayor Alfredo “JR” Coro II, who emphasized strengthening access, equity, and resilience in community health systems, and a discussion on education and youth engagement by Iloilo Board Member Jason R. Gonzales, focusing on shaping and equipping the next generation.
The discussions were enriched by reactions from local leaders, including Consolacion Mayor Teresa P. Alegado, San Remigio Mayor Mariano Martinez, Oslob Mayor Ronald Guaren, San Francisco, Camotes Mayor Alfredo “Al” A. Arquillano Jr., Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano, and Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony V. Gullas Jr.
Moving Forward
Through these conversations, the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), together with its partners, aims to strengthen collaboration among local leaders, highlight effective governance practices, and promote continuous learning through leadership development programs such as the Bugsay Executive Course.
By investing in leadership and governance, the initiative underscores a broader commitment to building institutions that are responsive, inclusive, and capable of delivering lasting impact.
As communities continue to face evolving challenges, the need for strong, values-driven leadership remains clear. Through initiatives like the Bugsay Leadership & Governance Executive Course, RAFI and its partners continue to support leaders in shaping solutions that move communities forward.
