To strengthen the capacity of LGUs in administrative investigation, evidence handling, and due process compliance to further enhance accountability and responsiveness in local governance, the DILG Region III successfully conducted a three-day training program titled “Improving Local Government Capacity on Handling Citizens' Complaints and Grievances” on November 19–21, 2025, at Royce Hotel and Casino, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga.

Participated by the 7 provinces in the region, the activity reaffirmed DILG Region III’s commitment to equipping local government units with enhanced competencies in evidence handling, due process, and quasi-judicial responsibilities.

The first day focused on foundational concepts and legal frameworks, highlighted by the comprehensive lecture of Atty. Charmaine Jacqueline Evangelista on the quasi-judicial powers of the Sanggunian. Participants explored topics such as legislative and investigative authority, jurisdiction over administrative cases, due process requirements, and disciplinary procedures under the Local Government Code. An open forum allowed LGUs to clarify issues on suspension, abstentions, travel without permits, and standards of substantial evidence.

On the second day, Atty. Aloi Renz Santos delivered an in-depth discussion on integrating a Human Rights–Based Approach (HRBA) in administrative governance, emphasizing fairness, equity, and the importance of proper documentation. Participants reviewed their Internal Rules of Procedure (IRP) and joined a workshop that helped them identify due process gaps, inconsistencies, and areas needing improvement in their existing systems.

The final day strengthened participants’ practical skills in handling administrative cases through a session on Conduct of Administrative Investigation, where Atty. Santos clarified rules on evidence authentication, witness credibility, offer of evidence, objections, and procedural safeguards. This was followed by a hands-on workshop using the Investigator’s Matrix, enabling participants to analyze case elements, assess evidence, identify gaps, and formulate grounded recommendations. The day concluded with a session on Effective Decision Writing, complemented by a workshop that guided participants in drafting clear, well-structured, and legally sound decisions based on their case analysis.

The three-day activity reaffirmed DILG Region III’s commitment to supporting LGUs in implementing transparent, accountable, and rights-based administrative processes. By equipping local government units with enhanced competencies in evidence handling, due process, and quasi-judicial responsibilities, the region moves closer to fostering a governance environment where citizens’ complaints are addressed fairly, efficiently, and with utmost integrity.