March 8-14, 2026 | Manila, Catbalogan – UCLG ASPAC, represented by Secretary General Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi, led a series of mission to establish the role of local governments in Philippines as key actors in achieving sustainable and inclusive urban development. The mission also continued the preparation for the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF) 2026, a sub-regional initiative supporting the realisation of the ASEAN Community Vision (ACV) 2045.
Engaging Municipal Leaders at the General Assembly of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines
In the League of Municipalities of the Philippines General Assembly in Manila, a major gathering of municipal leaders from across the country, Dr. Bernadia delivered a welcoming address emphasising the importance of local governments in translating regional commitments into practical community actions. She stressed that the success of ACV 2045 depends on strong leadership and initiatives at the municipal level.
Her remarks highlighted how local governments contribute directly to ASEAN’s Political-Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural pillars through initiatives such as strengthening local economic development, expanding health and education services, improving disaster resilience, and advancing digital governance. She also presented the localisation of ACV 2045, emphasising that regional strategies can only be successful when they are integrated into local development planning and implemented by cities and municipalities.
Preparation for the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum 2026 in Manila
Hosting AGMF in September 2026, Manila City is expecting to bring together approximately 350 international delegates and 650 local participants from across ASEAN and beyond. Several key aspects of the event were addressed including logistical arrangements, delegate participation, financial responsibilities, and public safety considerations.
Discussions also explored opportunities to showcase ASEAN culture and collaboration through side activities such as an ASEAN Food Fair Festival featuring culinary traditions from the region’s eleven countries. The proposed activity would complement the forum’s networking events and closing programme.
Venue Preparation and Ground-Checking
The delegation also conducted a ground-checking visit to The Manila Hotel, a proposed venue for hosting the forum’s exhibition and related activities. The team assessed potential exhibition spaces and logistical arrangements. Tent City Hall was identified as a suitable venue capable of accommodating more than 100 exhibition booths. The site inspection provided valuable insights to ensure the venue can effectively host a large regional gathering.
Initiating a Local Economic Development Project with Catbalogan City
UCLG ASPAC and the Catbalogan City Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise collaboration on the development of ASEAN SDGs Park Project, an initiative to create a public space that integrates sustainable development, economic empowerment, and community engagement.
A key component of the proposed park is a container-based marketplace designed to support micro and small enterprises. The marketplace will consist of modular vendor spaces created from repurposed shipping containers, providing affordable commercial spaces for local entrepreneurs.
The project plans to accommodate 18 vendors, each operating within a designated container unit equipped with electricity, water supply, and ventilation systems.
UCLG ASPAC delegation and Catbalogan team also discussed procurement processes, vendor selection criteria, infrastructure requirements, and financial sustainability. The initial rental fee for vendors is proposed at PHP 3,000 per month, with revenue to be managed by the City Treasurer’s Office through a trust fund.
Once operational, the project could serve as a pilot initiative that may be replicated in other cities across the Philippines and ASEAN.
Supporting Women’s Leadership and Inclusive Governance
In the Women’s Month activities organised by the Catbalogan City Government, Dr. Bernadia highlighted the critical role of women leaders in promoting inclusive development and strengthening community resilience.
She emphasised that women’s leadership contributes to improved public services, stronger community engagement, and more inclusive economic opportunities. Empowering women in local governance also supports the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and ASEAN’s broader development agenda.
Looking Ahead The mission concluded with several follow-up initiatives aimed at strengthening collaboration between UCLG ASPAC and its Philippine partners. Through these engagements, the mission reaffirmed the central role of cities and municipalities in shaping ASEAN’s future and advancing sustainable, inclusive development across the region.
