As part of the Agency’s commitment to continuous service improvement and capacity building for its employees, PCAF conducted a Competency Advancement on Policy-making and Engagement (CAPE) training last September 5, 6, and 8, 2023.

The said training aims to develop the skills of PCAF employees involved in consultative activities and crafting of policy resolutions. The Human Resource Development Committee (HRDC), in coordination with the Capacity Development Section, facilitated the three-day training.

A total of 27 employees attended the face-to-face training, including three PCAF region-based coordinators from Regions I, II and IX.

Professors Simeon Agustin Ilago, Charlie Cabotaje, and Attorney Mark Anthony Gamboa from University of the Philippines in Diliman served as the resource speakers.

Prof. Ilago of UP’s National College of Public Administration and Governance (NCPAG) provided an overview of policy analysis and development to give participants a basic understanding of the nature of policy and the policy process.

Meanwhile, Prof. Cabotaje, also from NCPAG, discussed policy advocacy, elements of policy, stakeholder analysis and engagement, and the crafting of a communication and engagement plan.

Atty. Gamboa, Assistant Professor at UP’s School of Urban and Regional Planning, talked about products of policy analysis, definition, function and parts of a resolution, and the crafting of policy resolutions. He also shared guidelines and tips on drafting a policy-oriented resolution.

In his closing remarks, PCAF OIC-Deputy Executive Director Cyril L. Soliaban told the participants, “As you return to your respective operating units, I encourage you to apply the insights and expertise you have gained during this training to make meaningful contributions especially to our agency’s policies and programs. Your dedication is instrumental in sustaining the relevance and shaping the future of this agency as the participatory hub of the Department of Agriculture.” | JB