Pasig City, Philippines — The Senior Executives Class (SEC) Batch 13, known as “Katig,” marked the successful culmination of their Public Management Development Program (PMDP) journey with an impressive 100% success rate in their Capstone Revalida. The celebration took place on November 15, 2024, at the DAP office, featuring a vibrant Tausug-themed closing program.

Ms. Reina Carmelita Young, Director for the Advocacy and Admissions Office of the Center for CES Development (CCD), likened the “Katigs” to skilled helmsmen, expertly navigating the challenging waters of public service towards excellence.

Learning Team (LT) representatives reflected on their shared journey. Class President Cruz spoke about building a foundation of trust and understanding, while Maria Dolores C. Guevarra from LT Kislab highlighted outstanding achievements, including one scholar’s appointment to the Supreme Court and the promotion of three others as Regional Directors during their PMDP tenure.

Mr. Avelino S. De Chaves of LT Bakas emphasized the importance of servant leadership, urging humility, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity. Meanwhile, Mr. Edwin M. Mendame Jr. of LT Padayon encouraged his peers to seize opportunities for growth, affirming that DAP remains the premier government learning institution.

SEC 13 Katig scholars proudly pose as a class, with their brass marker displayed behind them

The event featured the Awarding of Certificates of Completion, led by Senior Vice President for Programs Magdalena L. Mendoza and CCD Vice President Nanette C. Caparros, and concluded with the unveiling of the class’s brass marker. A lively afterparty followed, where Tausug-themed peer awards were presented.

In her closing “Pabaon” message, SVP Mendoza underscored the critical role of breaking organizational silos and fostering cross-agency collaboration. She reminded the scholars of their commitment to shaping a better future, citing the wisdom of former NEDA Secretary Cayetano W. Paderanga Jr.:

“Remember, you embarked on this Program not for yourself and certainly not for the money. It’s been so long that we have done things the wrong way, thus, it’s time to make a change. Our mission is to serve, and we bear the responsibility to shape a better future for generations to come. This is not about pleasing the government or your superiors—it’s about building a legacy for your children and grandchildren.” 

The “Katigs” now eagerly anticipate the formal conclusion of their PMDP journey at the One DAP Graduation on January 31, 2025.

A lively song by SEC13 Katig happily concluded the night for everyone

The Public Management Development Program (PMDP) has extended the application deadline for its Middle Managers Class Batch 35, which is set to begin on January 20, 2025. Aspiring leaders can now apply until December 6, 2024. Additionally, applications for the Senior Executives Class Batch 14, starting February 17, 2025, will be accepted until December 5, 2024. Both classes offer a unique opportunity for participants to accelerate their leadership journey, network with other high-performing leaders, and gain the knowledge and skills to excel at the highest levels of government.

These programs are fully funded by the government. For more information, visit https://pmdp.dap.edu.ph or contact the PMDP admissions office at pmdp.admissions@dap.edu.ph, 0969-586-7046, or (02) 8631-0921, locals 125-127.