Category: News and Events

Policy Research and Legal Services (PRLS) actively participated in a comprehensive 3-day training on project management, procurement process flow, and Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS) Foundations and key concepts, held from October 28-30, 2024 (Rabi’ al-Thani 14-16, 1446 AH), at Paragon Hotel, Cotabato City.

Key Expert 1, Parliament and Team Leader of SUBATRA, Mr. Reginald M. Pastrana, led the discussions on Project Management, emphasizing the role of E-governance in enhancing transparency and efficiency in modern project management practices. During the session, each division was also able to draft its own project management plan, ensuring that strategies were tailored and aligned with division’s objectives. Ms. Glaiza A. Biaoco, Supervising Administrative Officer of the Procurement Division, thoroughly covered the procurement process flow, sharing valuable insights into developing streamlined and effective workflows within procurement. Additionally, Jehan Y. Mitmug-Umpa, EnP, Chief of the BTA Planning Division, presented an in-depth overview of the Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS) Foundations and key concepts, focusing on the significance of SPMS in aligning individual and organisational performance with broader strategic objectives.

This training highlights PRLS’s commitment to continuous professional development and to equipping its team with essential skills.

Policy Research and Legal Services (PRLS) actively participated in the five-day program titled “Learning Sessions on Bangsamoro Governance and Mandatory Executive Coaching,” from October 2-6, 2024 | 29 Rabi Al-Awwal to 3 Rabi Al-Thani 1446 AH, at Limketkai Luxe Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. The event, spearheaded by the Policy Research and Legal Services (PRLS) and the Office of the Secretary General (OSG), in partnership with the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Human Resource and Management Division (HRMD) and the Development Academy of the Bangsamoro (DAB), brought together key officials and technical staff from the Support to Operations (STO) offices, the Office of the Parliament Speaker (OPS), and General Administrative Support (GAS).

Key topics covered included the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Act, the significance of research in parliamentary processes, and parliamentary practices, structures, rules, and procedures. Discussions on moral governance and its role in promoting ethical leadership, along with a comprehensive presentation of the Bangsamoro situationer, provided valuable insights into the region’s current socio-political challenges. These sessions were designed to enhance the leadership capacity of participants and equip them with the tools necessary for effective legislation and governance within BARMM.

This event aimed to strengthen the understanding of governance principles, parliamentary procedures, and the unique legislative context of BARMM. With a focus on capacity-building, the program provided essential knowledge for stakeholders in the Bangsamoro region to foster transparent, ethical leadership and drive meaningful reforms.

Policy Research and Legal Services (PRLS) participated in the forum titled “Securing a Future for All by Growing a Resilient Middle Class,” held on 25th September 2024 | 22 Rabi Al-Awwal 1446 AH at the Em Manor Hotel and Convention in Cotabato City. This significant event was conducted by the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA) in collaboration with the BARMM Regional Statistical Committee.

The forum aimed to raise awareness about Development Policy Research Month (DPRM) and introduce the newly crafted 1st Bangsamoro Development Policy Research Agenda (BDPRA). This agenda outlines critical areas for policy research and development within the region, focusing on enhancing socio-economic growth and financial inclusion. Mr. Vincent Casil, Chief of the Legislative Research Division (LRD), led a discussion on the challenges and opportunities surrounding these important topics in the Bangsamoro context.

Participating in this forum demonstrates a strong commitment to building an inclusive and resilient middle class in the Bangsamoro region. These discussions play a vital role in developing policies that tackle the specific challenges of the community and support long-term development.

As part of the Supreme Court of the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to reform the Shari’ah justice system, Dr. Nassef M. Adiong, together with Ms. Asmin P. Abdullah, SCL, from the Policy Research and Legal Services–Legislative Measures and Legal Assistance Division (PRLS-LMLAD), and Mr. Gurhan Adan, SCL, from the Policy Research and Legal Services–Legislative Research Division (PRLS-LRD), participated in a focus group discussion (FGD) in Davao City from August 10 to 12, 2024. These discussions were part of the Institutional Review and Assessment of the Philippines’ Shari’ah Justice System (IRA-SJS), a Supreme Court initiative aimed at evaluating and improving Shari’ah courts.

The IRA-SJS is a cornerstone project of the Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI 2022-2027). This initiative seeks to align the Shari’ah justice system with the principles of justice, equity, efficiency, and inclusivity. The review also aims to provide evidence-based recommendations to enhance the system’s overall functionality, with a particular focus on addressing the needs of marginalized groups.

PRLS’s participation in the FGDs involved engaging with various stakeholders to assess the integration of innovations within the current Shari’ah justice framework. The event brought together representatives from the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, Shari’ah court judges, members of the academe, Shari’ah counselors, and local government officials to discuss key issues within the system.

The discussions included a modified SWOT analysis to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats faced by the Shari’ah justice system. Stakeholders examined various aspects, including the system’s impact on marginalized communities, the effectiveness of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and the competencies required of Shari’ah judges and practitioners. Participants also explored the feasibility of establishing additional Shari’ah courts and a Shari’ah High Court, as well as legal amendments necessary to improve the system.

PRLS played a key role in documenting the discussions with Shari’ah Counselors-at-Law, which will contribute to policy recommendations for the Supreme Court. These recommendations are expected to enhance the responsiveness and inclusivity of the Shari’ah justice system while ensuring its alignment with national and global standards of judicial innovation.

The Supreme Court’s initiative underscores its commitment to improving the Shari’ah justice system’s overall performance, making it more accessible and effective for all Filipinos, particularly those in the Bangsamoro region

Policy Research and Legal Services, under the leadership of Dr. Nassef Manabilang Adiong, Ph.D., has been honored with the “Most Enhanced Internal Control Development” award by the Baseline Assessment of Internal Control System (BAICS). Additionally, Atty. Hisham Nazz A. Biruar, CPA, Attorney V, received the “Outstanding Internal Audit Responsiveness” award. These awards were presented during the BAICS Culmination Program at the Grand Summit Hotel in General Santos City on July 17, 2024 | 11th of Muharram, 1446.

Both offices showed great dedication, resulting in significant improvements in their control environments from initial requests to validated walkthroughs. Under Dr. Adiong’s leadership, Policy Research and Legal Services has demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing processes and ensuring compliance with rigorous standards. Their significant improvements in internal control documentation set a high standard for other departments, reflecting their hard work and consistent progress.

Similarly, the efforts of Atty. Biruar and his team in the Legislative Measures and Legal Assistance Division have been recognized for their quick and thorough responses to the Internal Control Questionnaire and the interim BAICS report. This recognition highlights their efficiency and thoroughness in internal audit processes.