COMMUNITY leaders and influencers of Parañaque City held a forum at Werco Arcade on September 29 to respond to a growing clamor to be educated on responsible governance.

Human rights lawyer Chel Diokno, who abandoned his Senate bid and instead is the first nominee of the Akbayan party-list, with civil society advocates including Ayala Alabang Parish Pastoral Council President Ricky Presa and lawyer Mari Fabian, tackled the five essential principles of democratic governance: fair conduct of elections, representation and participation, responsiveness, competence and capacity, and accountability.

Parañaque City election officer lawyer Nesrin Cali gave insights on the significance of voter education and responsibility.

Convenor Arlene Verayo said the event was a space for meaningful dialogue where key leaders, thinkers and influencers help shape collective wisdom and commitment to action to build a stronger, more inclusive community for future generations.

"Good governance is not just the responsibility of leaders but a shared responsibility for everyone," she said.

Quoting Indian author and writer Rohini Nilekani, she said, "We cannot be mere consumers of good governance. We must be participants; we must be co-creators."

Moderated by Hosea Joey Encarnacion and Mari Cusi-Tatco, the forum was attended by youth and church mission leaders, representatives from the academe and community organizations, and local government officials.