Empowering Local Governance: NDMU as DILG’s Academic Partner for 2025 Regional Decentralization Conference

Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) has been formally identified by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as a Local Resource Institution (LRI) for the research component of its upcoming 2025 Regional Decentralization Conference.

On July 31, 2025, Ms. Cristy Jane Buenaflor, DILG representative, met with the university team to present the proposed project and outline the research agenda. This collaboration reinforces NDMU’s role in driving evidence-based policy and community-centered development.

The research initiative will focus on youth development, particularly on reviewing and proposing amendments to existing policies that govern the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK). The project will concentrate on critical municipalities in South Cotabato, with the goal of making youth representation more responsive, inclusive, and sustainable.

The effort is spearheaded by Mrs. Sheila B. Roma, Director of the Research and Innovation Center, together with the Social Science Department, in alignment with the university’s commitment to public service and civic engagement. Atty. Rene M. Barrion, NDMU Vice President for Administration, also attended the meeting and shared key legal perspectives on the policy review process.

Through this academic-government partnership, NDMU continues to contribute to nation-building by empowering local governance structures and advocating for youth-centered reforms.