By: Janelle Faulve
The Office of Public Affairs held a seminar on 21st-Century Service Delivery under the theme “Sustaining Excellence, Responsiveness, Versatility, and Inclusivity for Collaboration and Empowerment” on July 26. It gathered 179 participants, 27 onsite and 152 online, in a discussion on enhancing public service frameworks and strategies.
The seminar commenced at 9 AM with welcome remarks by Dr. Jocelyn Gagalang, Director of the Office of Public Affairs. She emphasized the importance of adapting to modern challenges and the pivotal role of public institutions in leading this transformation. She highlighted the seminar’s objective to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive effective service delivery.
Dr. Marvin Amoin, Vice President for Administration and Finance, followed with a message that underscored the intersection of administrative efficiency and constant learning in public service. He highlighted the need for transparent, accountable, and innovative approaches to public service, aligning with the seminar’s theme.
Prof. Renato Allen Casas, Jr., Head of Local Linkages, provided a rationale for the event. He outlined how the seminar aimed to foster a shared understanding and cooperative spirit among participants. Ms. Janelle Faulve, Information Officer II, followed with an introduction of the resource speakers.
The first resource speaker, Dr. Carina Publico, Board Secretary V, discussed “Advancing Efficient Document Handling and Coordinating,” a topic about increasing relevance in the digital age. Her discussion centered on the integration of digital tools and systems to streamline documentation processes, reduce redundancies, and enhance coordination among various departments and office units.
The morning session concluded with an interactive workshop, where participants were divided into six groups, each tasked with solving situational problems related to document handling and coordination. This hands-on exercise reinforced the insights and knowledge shared by Dr. Publico and encouraged participants to think critically and collaboratively.
After a productive morning, the seminar reconvened in the afternoon with Ms. Grace Ann Faulve, Planning Officer II, as the second resource speaker. Her presentation on “Strategic Planning and Effective Multitasking” delved into the challenges of balancing multiple responsibilities in public service roles. Ms. Faulve provided practical strategies for prioritizing tasks, optimizing workflows, and maintaining high productivity. She also included activities and presentations in line with the preparation of the Program, Projects, and Activities (PPA).
The workshop involved participants forming four groups to create their samples of PPA and Program of Receipts and Expenditures (PRE) since this is a significant task per office/unit. This task aimed to simulate real-world scenarios, pushing participants to apply strategic thinking and multitasking skills. The groups presented their outputs, showcasing innovative solutions and approaches to common administrative challenges.
Before the seminar’s closing, participants were invited to share their insights and learnings from the event. Among the online and onsite volunteers were Dr. Richard Manalastas from URS Taytay, Dr. Gemma Lavara from URS Taytay, Dr. Ma. Merle Facultad from URS Antipolo City, Ms. Paula Anne San Esteban from the University Registrar’s Office, Ms. Marisoc Cimatu from the Quality Assurance Office, Mr. Edric San Antonio from URS Morong Campus Director’s Office, Ms. Jerra Mae Baco from the URS Morong Corporate Business Affairs Office, and Ms. Daniella Padullon from the Office of the Director for Administrative Services.
Many of the participants expressed appreciation for the seminar’s comprehensive approach to addressing contemporary challenges in public service, exchanging ideas and realizations as they acknowledged the importance of continuous professional development and the need for public servants to be adaptable, responsive, and forward-thinking, noting how the sessions offered not only theoretical insights but also practical tools that could be immediately applied in their respective fields.
Dr. Jannie Manimtim, Director of the Research Development Unit, delivered the closing remarks on behalf of Dr. Marites M. Rio, Vice President for Research Development, Extension and Production (RDEP). She thanked the speakers, participants, and organizers for their contributions, highlighting the seminar’s role in fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement in public service. Dr. Manimtim emphasized that the insights gained and connections made during the seminar would significantly impact the participants’ work, ultimately benefiting the offices, University, and communities they serve.
Finally, the seminar on 21st-Century Service Delivery stands as a critical initiative in promoting excellence, responsiveness, versatility, and inclusivity in the University. It accentuated the need for a holistic approach to public service, one that integrates modern technologies, strategic planning, critical thinking, and collaborative efforts.
