The Second Forum on Local Governance and Development will focus on digital transformation in recognition of the growing complexity of local governance challenges amid rapid technological change, evolving citizen expectations, and increasing demands for transparency, efficiency, and responsiveness in public service delivery. As LGUs continue to play an increasingly central role in national development, there is a pressing need to rethink traditional governance models and embrace innovation as a core driver of institutional effectiveness.

With the theme “Reimagining Local Governance: Digital Transformation for Local Development”, the forum will serve as a venue for sharing good practices and real-world applications of digital transformation in the public sector, while encouraging stronger collaboration among local governments, technology partners, and local stakeholders. The forum will have two panels: (1) digital transformation for increased effectiveness, efficiency and transparency for LGUs and (2) digital tools and innovative communication strategies for disaster preparedness and response. Each panel has a thoughtfully curated mix of distinguished speakers from government, civil society, the international development community, and the private sector to give participants a comprehensive view of the topics.

The forum will gather 120 high-level participants from LGUs, key national government agencies, civil society organizations, academia, and development partners to discuss how digital tools and approaches have strengthened local governance, and how these practical solutions and scalable models can be adopted by LGUs across the country.