Antique Provincial Board Establishes Accreditation Guidelines for Local NGOs and CSOs

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, ANTIQUE – The Antique provincial board has passed an ordinance setting forth guidelines for the accreditation of barangay-based civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) during its regular session on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, author of the Barangay-Based Organizations Ordinance of the Province of Antique, the Local Government Code of 1991 lays the foundation for CSOs and NGOs to actively participate in local governance. The ordinance provides a framework for their accreditation and involvement in Barangay-Based Institutions (BBIs). “The CSOs and NGOs may identify the BBI that they want to render their services [to] or sit as members, subject to the approval of the barangay council,” Elio said.

These organizations can engage in various community activities, including the Barangay Development Council, Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council, Barangay Risk Reduction and Management Council, and Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams. To become accredited, CSOs and NGOs are required to submit an application letter and a completed accreditation form to their respective barangays.

Elio also mentioned that selected CSO and NGO representatives might receive an allowance, depending on the availability of barangay funds. Additionally, to ensure active and effective participation, the barangay council is encouraged to implement a mechanism for replacing representatives in cases of cumulative absences or failure to perform their designated functions.

This ordinance signifies the provincial board’s effort to integrate CSOs and NGOs more effectively into local governance, promoting community involvement and development.