The commencement of the month-long Civil Service Month celebration in Davao de Oro took place today, September 4, at the Provincial Capitol Lobby, calling to foster dynamic public servants. The event began with a thanksgiving Mass led by Reverend Fr. Fernand Bagnaan from Queen of Apostles College Seminary.
Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga, in her message, highlighted that with this celebration, it is crucial for employees to understand and remember the notable distinction between work and service.
She stated, "When we say work, it means you perform a task that is principally because you are being paid for it, but when we speak of service you don't even need any remuneration para ihatag ang serbisyo kay dili kana purely trabaho, kay ang pagpanerbisyo gikan kana sa gugma".
Under the 10-year theme "Transforming Public Service in the Next Decade: Honing Agile and Future-Ready Servant-Heroes," the celebration's central theme was "Dynamism." This highlighted the significance of digital transformation, innovation, excellence, and the persistent commitment to public service, as conveyed in a virtual message by CSC Chairperson Atty. Karlo Nograles.
“I call upon my fellow public servants to live up to and embody dynamism, especially in the delivery of public services. To support our vision for 2040, the Civil Service must be prepared to meet the evolving demands of the digital age, fully embracing the shift from a transactional to a strategic mindset." Nograles said.
Guest Speaker CSC-FO Acting Director Leilani C. Parel also reminded fellow public servants that the primary objective for which they have been entrusted with their current roles is "to provide excellent public service and to bring about customer value" as they navigate their daily routines and responsibilities.
Moreover, the ComVal Capitol Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CCMPC) and the Provincial Employees Union of Compostela Valley (PEUCV) have received Php 30k each in recognition of their consistent support during the annual celebration.
Governor Gonzaga closed the ceremony with her assurance to always pray for the employees' continued enthusiasm and commitment to pledging good public service to Dabawenyos.
"After all, we know our role, our task, that this is for the love of public service. And when we render true public service, ang tanan katawhan will truly appreciate that our government works" she genuinely voiced.
(Jaynus Fernandez, Photos by Albert Dayao)