THE ATENEO School of Government, through the Ateneo Policy Center, has partnered with the Provincial Government of Iloilo and Transcending Institutions and Communities, Inc. to implement the second cohort of the Leadership and Governance in Tobacco Control Executive Course (LGTC).

A memorandum of understanding was signed earlier this week, formalizing the collaboration aimed at strengthening local leadership and policy development in tobacco control and health governance.

The LGTC Executive Course, co-implemented by ASOG Executive Education, brings together 20 local government units (LGUs) across Iloilo to promote evidence-based policymaking and the creation of sustainable, FCTC-compliant health policies.

Present during the signing were Dr. Maria Soccoro Quiñon, Provincial Health Officer II; Dr. Jennifer Oreta, ASOG Dean; and Ronald Aguilar, Transcend Board Member, along with several mayors, vice mayors, councilors, and municipal health officers from participating LGUs.

During the event, local officials pledged their commitment to advancing tobacco control initiatives in their respective jurisdictions through a symbolic commitment signing ceremony.

ASOG Dean Dr. Oreta said the partnership reflects a shared goal of empowering communities through strong local leadership, emphasizing that the four-day executive course aims to equip public officials with the knowledge and tools to institutionalize good governance in public health.