Module 3 of the Leaders for Excellence and Public Service (LEAP) Open Government Fellowship Program, organized by Mayors for Good Governance (M4GG) in partnership with the British Embassy Manila, was successfully held from June 4 to 6, 2026.
This module focused on advancing open governance through collaboration and partnerships with the private sector and cause-oriented organizations. The program featured a meaningful dialogue with the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines, alongside private sector partners such as GCash, the BDO Foundation, the Synergeia Foundation, and the Aboitiz Foundation.
Furthermore, the session served as a jumping-off point for developing the mayor-fellows’ capstone projects, which are the program’s final requirement. These projects aim to institutionalize their learnings within their respective Local Government Units (LGUs). The fellows were guided by Dr. Maria Fe Villamejor-Mendoza, a professor and former Dean of the National College of Public Administration and Governance (NCPAG) at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman.
As part of the module’s continuation, the mayor-fellows conducted benchmarking activities in Pasig City and Valenzuela City. They first visited the Pasig City Innovation for Circular Economy (ICE) Hub, accompanied by M4GG Convenor, Mayor Vico Sotto. During this visit, the Pasig City LGU showcased its effective solid waste management programs and recycling and upcycling initiatives.
The mayors then proceeded to Valenzuela City to observe the sustainability and orderly management of Disiplina Village in Barangay Bignay. As the largest and most modern in-city relocation site in the Philippines, it is fully equipped with an urban farm, a public school, and highly accessible LGU services. The fellows also visited the ALERT Center to learn about disaster preparedness and relief mobilization, toured the WES Arena, and engaged in a meaningful dialogue with Mayor Wes Gatchalian at the City Hall.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the speakers and organizations that shared their expertise, as well as to our mayor-fellows for their unwavering dedication and continued interest in advancing open government. Special thanks are also due to the Pasig City LGU and the Valenzuela City LGU for their warm hospitality and for sharing their experiences and inspiration with our fellow public servants.
Click here for Module 3 proper pictures.
Click here for pictures of the benchmarking activities.
