In a direct appeal to accredited and recognized Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez called the local groups to take a more proactive approach in addressing urgent community concerns, particularly the surge in youth-related violence.

The call came during the CSO Agenda Setting and Local People’s Council Formation Workshop held Tuesday, October 15. In his speech, the mayor underscored the need for CSOs to not only raise awareness about these issues but also to provide practical solutions.

“It is essential that CSOs act as a bridge between the community and the local government, not just by bringing problems to light but by offering solutions that can help us address these concerns effectively,” Mayor Romualdez said.

He also stressed the importance of community-led initiatives in curbing behavioral problems among the youth. “We are witnessing frequent riots involving children, especially in the northern barangays. It’s time for us to come together and create programs that will help change these destructive behaviors and guide our children toward a more positive path.”

Romualdez likewise reminded CSOs that their role should go beyond mere accreditation for financial support. “Don’t just get accredited to access funds. Make your organization sustainable so that you can be a long-term partner in helping communities and the local government.”

The mayor concluded his speech by pointing out the need to promote resiliency in all aspects of life, noting the positive traits of the Waray-Waray people. “Let us celebrate our resilience, not just by being brave but by showing the world the best of our culture—the strength, kindness, and unity of the Waray-Waray spirit, not aggression.”

This push for greater CSO involvement aligns with the city government’s efforts in bolstering alliances with stakeholders to be able to have a collective and solution-oriented direction to tackle key issues affecting communities in Tacloban.

According to EnP. Janis Claire S. Canta, City Planning and Development Coordinator and Officer-In-Charge of the City Information Office, the workshop was conducted by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Cities for Enhance Governance and Engagement (CHANGE), in partnership with the City Government of Tacloban.