SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) -- The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the city government of San Fernando, La Union, joined forces to enhance local governance through the Cities for Enhanced Governance and Engagement (CHANGE) project.

The official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) took place at the People's Hall on Feb. 28.

The CHANGE project aims to build a more responsive local government through three key objectives: decentralization, enhanced local government legitimacy and effectiveness, and citizen empowerment through active participation.

Its transformative potential is a catalyst for change that will empower the city government to be more responsive, efficient, and democratic as democracy conditions a society to thrive and attain development.

The MOU for CHANGE was signed by San Fernando City Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto, USAID Philippines Deputy Director Eric Florimon-Reed, Anacleto Zamoranos from the Local People’s Council, and other city government officials.

San Fernando City Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto emphasized the city's commitment to inclusivity, stating, "We aim to become a progressive city, but we strive to build one where no one is left behind."

He highlighted the importance of ensuring that all residents, regardless of background or belief, have a voice in shaping their community.

Florimon-Reed, USAID Philippines deputy director, echoed the significance of citizen engagement, stating, "Through the CHANGE project, we support the city's trust toward good governance and active citizen participation. A citizen-responsive government is crucial for any country's growth."

This alliance concludes the reinforcement of both parties' commitment to execute, catalytic, sustainable, transparent, and equitable reforms in pursuit of shared goal of achieving resilient, broad-based, inclusive economic growth and good governancy.

The city government commended USAID's dedication to fostering positive change globally and improving the well-being of all citizens.

Zamoranos also assured that the People's Council will remain committed to upholding the mandate of good governance for the sake of the constituents of the city.

This partnership adds San Fernando City, La Union to USAID's existing network of 16 partner cities across 10 Philippine regions, including Batangas, Legazpi, Tacloban, Iloilo, Masbate, and Zamboanga.

For decades, USAID has collaborated with various countries, communities, and individuals to build resilient and democratic societies. (JCR/AMB/SGR, PIA La Union)