MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued a Memorandum Circular No. 41, which directs government agencies and encourages local government units (LGUs) to observe “Community Development Week” and “Community Development Day” in a bid to uphold and instill the “Bayanihan Spirit” and the value of community cooperation.

Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin signed the MC on January 3, ordering the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), in partnership with non-government and people’s organizations, to lead the activities and programs of the annual “Community Development Week” and “Community Development Day.”

The DILG is the lead agency in the annual celebration as stated under Proclamation No. 316 in coordination with the non-government and people’s organization.

“All national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, government financial institutions, and state universities and colleges are hereby directed, and all local government units are encouraged, to extend full support for, and cooperation in, the conduct of relevant activities and programs during the annual celebration of the Community Development Week and Community Development Day,” the two-page MC stated.

The first week of January and January 6 of every year is declared as Community Development Week and Community Development Day, respectively through Proclamation No. 316, (s. 1994) in a bid to raise people’s awareness on the on Bayanihan Spirit and the value of community cooperation.

The proclamation also aims to recognize the invaluable contributions and concerted efforts of both government and non-government organizations in the development of local communities, people empowerment and community mobilization. (PND)