The Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), in collaboration with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), successfully hosted the Capacity Development Exposition (CapDev) 2025 at the Dr. Bruno Gymnasium on August 27–28, 2025. With the theme “CAPDEV 2025: Connecting Aspirations, Promoting Development, Empowering Voices,” the exposition brought together brilliant minds, innovators, and development partners to advance capacity building in local governance.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Mel Senen S. Sarmiento, President of the Galing Pook Foundation. He spoke on change and transition management for local government units after election emphasizing its critical role in ensuring continuity and stability in governance. Sarmiento encouraged leaders to “get on the balcony,” pause, and look at the bigger picture to gain perspective. He underscored that leaders must learn from the past while addressing present problems in order to build a stronger foundation for the future. Recalling history, he highlighted how good governance requires both reflection and forward thinking, urging local leaders to embrace transitions as opportunities for innovation and growth.
WMSU President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena welcomed the various participants in the university. She emphasized that the exposition was more than an exhibition. The university is honored to facilitate the celebration of ideas, innovations, learning that inspire and connect. Dr. Ochotorena is grateful that the university is the community space where government agencies, state universities and colleges, and development partners can share best practices, ignite inspiration, and foster meaningful collaboration in public service and community development.
The event gathered a wide array of participants with some strong lineup of exhibitors who showcased their programs, services, and innovations, including DILG regional offices from CAR, NCR, Regions I, II, III, V, VI, X, XI, XII, MIMAROPA, and the Negros Island Region. Academic institutions such as WMSU, Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU), and Universidad de Zamboanga (UZ), along with organizations like Nagdilaab, actively took part. Government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture (DA IX), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE IX), Department of Science and Technology (DOST IX), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR IX), TESDA Region IX, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and several local government units from Bukidnon, Carmona City, Zamboanga Peninsula, Lakewood, Midsalip, Labangan, Zuellig Family Foundation, Philippine Commission on Women, Local Government Academy, Local Government Units of Dumalinao, Dipolog, and Liloy, ADZU, LGRRC IX.
Another key feature of CapDev 2025 was the series of breakout sessions held in dedicated rooms across the WMSU campus. These sessions provided an interactive space where participants engaged in capacity-building workshops, leadership development activities, and soft-skills training designed to strengthen governance at the local level. LGU representatives, barangay officials, and development partners took part in discussions that allowed for deeper exchanges of best practices, problem-solving strategies, and innovative approaches to community challenges. On the second day, the best practices of different LGRRCs were discussed by their representatives.
Hon. Khymer Adan Olaso, Mayor of Zamboanga City, underscored the importance of equipping LGUs with the tools, skills, and knowledge needed to strengthen capacity building. Breakout sessions provided hands-on training, focusing on both technical and soft skills essential for responsive and adaptive governance.
Paisal O. Abutasil, CESO III, Regional Director of DILG IX, also highlighted the importance of CapDev in strengthening the backbone of local governance. He stressed the need for LGUs to deliver quality services, ensure peace and order, and foster inclusive growth while responding swiftly to the evolving needs of their constituents. He pointed out that CapDev provides the framework to transform challenges into opportunities, bridging gaps in resources, technical competence, and systems. According to him, effective governance is not only achievable but also replicable when supported by collaboration and continuous learning.
The event also showcased the creativity, innovation, and talent of WMSU students through various competitions. In the Digital Poster Making Contest, Gwynette Jade E. Magsanay was runner-up. For the Photography Contest, Shariba Masillam emerged as champion. The Infomercials Contest was dominated by WMSU entries: Team Nadzla Bacundo, Elvin Myles Elisma, and Ahmad Rasha Jalil won first place, while Team Ahlamayesa Bazan Mangkobang, Gabriel Antonio Bazan, Ken Vinzel Delabia, and Thea Sophia Bueno placed second. These achievements display the culture of excellence nurtured at WMSU.
Through this landmark exposition, WMSU and DILG reaffirmed their shared mission of advancing good governance and preparing local governments to become more resilient, innovative, and future-ready. (Atty. MA Tamon)
