
The Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP), led by DBM Secretary Amenah “MINA” F. Pangandaman, gathered over 180 student-athletes from public and private institutions across the CARAGA Region for “OGP Sports: Bridging Athletics and Public Programs Through Open Government” on August 8, 2025, in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.
More than a celebration of sports, the event recognized athletes not only as symbols of excellence, prestige, and honor for the country, but also as influential voices in governance. Beyond their victories on the playing field, athletes participated in discussions on government programs in education, health, mental well-being, and civic engagement, through presentations from the Department of Education (DepEd) represented by Mr. Charlestone Otaza, Ms. Friezel L. Rosalejos-Saavedra from the Department of Health (DOH) , Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) represented by Ms. Jeeara Mae Kristine R. Cabalang, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) represented by Ms. Sheery Jean J. Yanoyan of Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT), and Mr. Rill L. Lagulao from the Province of Agusan del Sur representing Local Government Units (LGUs).
In her keynote address, Secretary Pangandaman underscored the importance of uniting sports and governance, stating, “Let this be the beginning of a stronger partnership… Together, let us co-create a sports sector that is open and empowering to every athlete’s journey.” Secretary Pangandaman, together with Agusan del Sur Provincial Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr., Vice-Governor Ma. Patricia Angelica T. Plaza, and the participating athletes, then took part in the OGP Quick Walk at the DOP Memorial Sports Complex Oval, a symbolic stride toward stronger ties between local leaders, the national government, and the sports community.

The program concluded with an open dialogue, providing a platform for athletes to share insights, raise concerns, and propose initiatives to further advance sports development in the region.
Through OGP Sports, PH-OGP reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, responsiveness, and citizen participation; showing that the discipline, dedication, and excellence that define athletes are the same qualities that can help shape a more responsive and effective government.
#PHOGP #DBM #OGPSports #OpenGovernment #KaagapayNgBawatAtleta #AthletesInGovernance #CARAGAAthletes
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Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah “MINA” F. Pangandaman visited Caraga Region on August 8, 2025, for a series of high-level engagements that underscored the Department’s commitment to advancing education, promoting agricultural innovation, strengthening sports development, and fostering good governance.
Her one-day working visit was marked by significant institutional milestones, constructive dialogues with stakeholders, and enhanced inter-agency coordination in support of CARAGA’s development priorities.
Secretary Pangandaman’s first engagement was at Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT), where she was warmly welcomed by ASSCAT President Dr. Joy C. Capistrano, together with faculty, staff, and students. She assessed the institution’s preparations for its transition into a State University, formally turned over newly acquired service vehicles, and toured key facilities, including the Smart Farming Facility, the Crops and Soil Laboratory, and the ASSCAT ABRI Technology Business Incubator.

A highlight of the visit was the presentation of the proposal for ASSCAT’s Seda tu’ Caraga: The Silk Innovation Center. This pioneering initiative aims to establish Caraga as a hub for high-quality silk production, providing sustainable livelihood opportunities while enhancing the region’s agricultural profile.

In the afternoon, Secretary Pangandaman gave a keynote speech in the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP) event held at the Provincial Learning Center Convention Hall, D.O. Plaza Government Center in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur (ADS). She was warmly greeted by ADS Governor Santiago B. Cane, Jr. and Vice Governor Ma. Patricia Angelica T. Plaza, along with provincial officials and stakeholders.
Addressing student athletes during the event, she emphasized the importance of creating a sports sector that is inclusive and empowering, stating:
“Together, let us co-create a sports sector that is open and empowering to every athlete’s journey.”
She further highlighted that athletic development must be complemented by access to quality education, healthcare, and holistic support for overall well-being.

Secretary Mina concluded her visit by presiding over the 2nd Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) Full Council Meeting. She reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to promoting peace, ensuring security, and fostering inclusive regional growth.
Secretary Pangandaman was joined by DBM Undersecretary Wilford Will Wong, Assistant Secretary Margaux Marie Salcedo, the DBM CARAGA Regional Director Maria Fe D. Jagna, Assistant Regional Director Jenneth C. Partosa, and DBM Technical Staff.
Her one-day visit reflected DBM’s dedication to equitable growth, transparent governance, and innovation. By strengthening partnerships with local government units, academic institutions, and communities, the Department seeks to drive sustainable development and empower CARAGA — and other regions — to achieve its full potential.
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