The Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute, Inc. (NYLI) has been recognized by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) – Negros Island Region for its contribution to strengthening participatory governance and empowering civil society organizations to become active partners in public decision-making.
The recognition was conferred during the Regional Forum on “Empowering Civil Society Organizations for Participatory Budgeting in the Negros Island Region,” a Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP) initiative that gathered civil society organizations, government agencies, and development partners across the region to promote transparent, inclusive, and responsive governance. The forum was held on July 29–30, 2026, at the Negros Residences Function Hall in Bacolod City.
NYLI Executive Director Kevin G. Gaitan received the Plaque of Recognition on behalf of the organization for its meaningful partnership and support in advancing participatory budgeting, public accountability, and citizen engagement in the Negros Island Region.
Prior to the forum, DBM invited NYLI to deliver a message of support and commitment, acknowledging the organization’s role in encouraging civil society organizations to deepen their engagement and strengthen collaboration in promoting transparent, inclusive, and responsive local governance.
“This recognition affirms the importance of meaningful partnerships in building better governance,” said Gaitan. “At NYLI, we believe that sustainable development happens when communities, civil society organizations, and government work together to ensure that every voice is heard in shaping policies and programs that affect people’s lives.”
For nearly two decades, NYLI has worked alongside government agencies, community organizations, academic institutions, and development partners to promote youth leadership, civic participation, and citizen engagement. Through its Center for Democracy and Participation and other community-based initiatives, the organization continues to create platforms that encourage active citizenship, strengthen accountability, and empower communities to participate in governance.
As an accredited private sector representative to the Regional Development Council of the Negros Island Region, NYLI remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote transparency, public accountability, and participatory governance.
The recognition reflects the organization’s continuing commitment to working with government and communities in advancing open governance and ensuring that development planning and budgeting become more inclusive, responsive, and reflective of citizens’ needs.