Pasay City, Philippines — Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) President and CEO, Dr. Majah-Leah V. Ravago, was officially sworn in as Vice Chair of the Career Executive Service Board (CESB) on November 5, 2024. The oath-taking ceremony, led by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin from the Office of the President, was a highlight of the 2024 Career Executive Service Lifelong Learning for Leadership Congress (CESCON) at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
This appointment is rooted in Presidential Decree No. 1, which mandates that the President of DAP serves as an ex-officio member of the CESB. This decree, enacted in 1972, was designed to ensure that the DAP, as a leader in public sector training and development, plays a vital role in the governance and management of the Career Executive Service. The law’s rationale underscores DAP’s mission to develop competent and ethical leadership across the civil service, with the DAP President’s involvement in the CESB ensuring alignment on policies that enhance leadership quality and promote effective governance.
As Vice Chair, Dr. Ravago will collaborate closely with CESB Chair Dr. Urdujah G. Alvarado and other board members to strengthen CESB’s mission of fostering a skilled, ethical, and professional bureaucracy. This partnership aligns with the objectives of the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, aiming to enhance leadership competencies in the public sector and foster a culture of excellence.
CESCON’s opening day, themed “Pag-ibig sa Bayan, CESerbisyong May Dangal,” emphasizes lifelong learning and values-driven leadership, reflecting the CESB’s commitment to elevating public service standards. This two-day event gathers government leaders and experts for discussions focused on inspiring dedication to national progress.
Dr. Ravago, an esteemed economist and academic recognized as a 2016 Outstanding Young Scientist in Economics, brings her expertise in energy economics, natural disaster management, and development economics to CESB. She has led various initiatives, including USAID-funded programs and advisory roles for government agencies, and expressed her enthusiasm to drive collaborative and impactful leadership initiatives in her new role. Her appointment as CESB Vice Chair strengthens DAP’s dedication to building a professional and ethical bureaucracy, fostering leadership rooted in integrity and patriotism.
