WELCOME REMARKS OF ATTY. ROLAND G.

TUMANDA
2nd VIS-MIN Convention of Regional/Local Chief Executives and Resident Ombudsmen Grand Regal Hotel, Lanang, Davao City September 11, 2013

COURTESIES --------A pleasant afternoon to us all! It is with great pleasure, honor and pride that I welcome every one of you here as we formally open the 2nd Vis-Min Convention of Regional/Local Chief Executives and Resident Ombudsmen. The holding of this event, which came to be here in Davao City after the consultative meetings of counterparts and partners of AROGA- Mindanao, is a timely one considering the scandal that recently mired an all-too important part of our government. This is the sort of upheaval that hampers the promotion of a transparent, competent and accountable service to the public and a negation of the required integrity of every public servant. Thus, this convention aims for the dissemination of the knowledge and experiences relative to the promotion of competence, transparency and integrity in public service. It will also be a means whereby these said knowledge and experiences will serve to inspire all of us participants to be improved and effective public servants for the benefit of our people. This is in concurrence with the advocacy espoused by the current Aquino administration on good governance. Anchored on the theme; Effective partnership of Regional/Local Chief Executives and Resident Ombudsmen towards the matuwid na daan, the annual activity is categorically divided into five sessions, four of which will be given by Hon. Humphrey T. Monteroso, Hon. Ret. Brigadier General Loreto T. Rirao, Hon. Victoria Faller Esber and Hon. Pelagio S. Apostol, four essential speakers whose knowledge and experiences on their assigned topics will warrant expert and encompassing discussions thereon. These topics will be on several issues and concerns on Public Accountability, Disaster Risk Management, the Anti-Red Tape Act and the Partnership of LCEs and Resident Ombudsmen. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, let me express, in the behalf of the AROGA Region XI, our most sincere wish that the sound and intellectual discussions and agreements resulting from this 3-day activity will positively contribute to the success of this event. Once again, I welcome you all. Thank you and God bless.