Bridging Academia and Governance: SLSU-MCC Promotes Fiscal Accountability in Brgy. Canturing

Maasin City, Southern Leyte — Upholding its mission to advance good governance and community empowerment, the Southern Leyte State University – Maasin City Campus (SLSU-MCC), through its Public Administration Department, successfully spearheaded a two-day capacity-building program titled “Enhancing Fiscal Transparency: Building Trust Through Open and Accountable Governance” on August 27–28, 2025, at Barangay Canturing, Maasin City.

The initiative aimed to strengthen public awareness on fiscal transparency, emphasizing the crucial role of openness and accountability in government financial management. It sought to help barangay officials and residents understand how transparency promotes trust and ensures that public resources are used efficiently and responsibly.

Throughout the two-day program, participants engaged in a series of interactive workshops, discussions, and case presentations facilitated by SLSU-MCC faculty members. These sessions covered key topics such as participatory budgeting, proper documentation of public funds, and citizen engagement in local fiscal monitoring.

In his message, Mr. Malachy Dagami, the activity leader, emphasized that fiscal transparency is not only a government responsibility but also a shared commitment between public officials and citizens. “When people understand where their taxes go and how funds are spent, it builds trust and strengthens democratic participation,” he said.

Barangay officials expressed their appreciation for the initiative, noting that the training helped them better grasp the importance of transparency and accountability in day-to-day governance. The workshops also provided practical tools that they can apply in managing barangay projects and funds more effectively.

This extension activity forms part of SLSU-MCC’s continuous efforts to bridge academic expertise with community needs, reinforcing its core values of service, integrity, and social responsibility. Through programs like this, the university remains steadfast in promoting responsive and transparent local governance across Southern Leyte.

The event also strengthened the partnership between SLSU-MCC and the local government of Maasin City, highlighting their shared commitment to cultivating a culture of openness, accountability, and citizen empowerment at the grassroots level.