The Zero Extreme Poverty Philippines 2030 (ZEP2030) coalition recently held its 8th General Assembly last November 24, 2023, under the theme, “Local Convergences: Unblocking the Constraints towards ZEP2030 Goals.”

The Keynote Speaker, South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo, Jr., who also serves as Vice Chair for Government Sector of the National Anti-Poverty Commission, Chairman of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, and the National President of the League of Provinces of the Philippines, underscored the significance of collaborative efforts among the government, private sector, and civil society. Emphasizing the pivotal role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in bringing grassroots issues to the forefront, Governor Tamayo advocated for their increased involvement in Local Development Councils. He also disclosed the government's forthcoming initiative to establish CSO academies aimed at bolstering the capacity and engagement of civil society entities in local government planning.

The assembly also featured a panel discussion on achieving collective impact in addressing poverty concerns. Panelists included Ms. Maricel Genzola, Executive Director of the Foundation for the Development of the Urban Poor and ZEP2030 Quezon City Local Convenor; Ms. Felisa R. Castro, President of Kusog han Kababayen-an han Salcedo (KAKASA) in Eastern Samar; and Mayor Edreluisa O. Caloñge of Mabuhay, Zamboanga Sibugay. The discussion centered around the pivotal role of CSOs in ensuring the effective utilization of government resources, fostering community-government ties, and facilitating collaboration between the government and civil society for the successful implementation of projects and programs at the grassroots level. The panelists also shared insightful strategies employed in their collaborative projects, aimed at addressing poverty-related challenges in their respective areas.