A New Chapter Begins: MMC Batch 34 joins MMC Batch 33 and the DAP-PMDP team at the opening ceremony, marking the start of their transformative leadership and management journey.

TAGAYTAY CITY, Philippines – The Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), through its Center for CES Development  (CCD), welcomed 40 new scholars into the Middle Managers Class (MMC) Batch 34 of the Public Management Development Program on July 11, 2024. The opening  ceremony, held at the DAP Conference Center in Tagaytay City, marks the beginning of a transformative journey for these aspiring leaders.

In her welcome remarks , DAP President and CEO, Dr. Majah-Leah V. Ravago, applauded the new batch for their commitment to excellence, leadership, and national development. “In today’s rapidly changing world, the role of middle managers is more critical than ever. You are the linchpins of our organizations, bridging the gap between strategic vision and operational execution. Your ability to lead, inspire, and innovate is crucial to our institutions’ success,” Ravago emphasized.

DAP President and CEO, Dr. Majah-Leah V. Ravago, inaugurates the MMC Batch 34 ceremony, emphasizing the PMDP’s role in empowering future leaders within government agencies.

Ravago encouraged the scholars to embrace the knowledge and relationships they will cultivate, urging them to lead with empathy, integrity, and a drive for positive change.

DAP Vice President for the Center for CES Development (CCD), Nanette C. Caparros, alongside CCD Senior Executive Development Office Director, Sheryl D. Reyes, introduced the esteemed faculty and dedicated PMDP team. This led into the Rite of Inclusion, a symbolic ceremony where each new scholar proudly stepped forward as CCD Junior Executive Development Office Director, Myda A. Nieves, called their names. With pride and anticipation, the scholars mounted their respective agency logos, signaling their official induction into the program.

MMC Batch 34 stands united, representing 24 diverse government agencies from across the Philippines. Their mounted agency logos symbolize their official induction into the PMDP.

MMC Batch 34 comprises scholars from 24 government agencies across the Philippines, from Itbayat, Batanes to Koronadal City, South Cotabato. Notably, for the first time, the program welcomes scholars from the Philippine Space Agency, Camarines Norte State College, Southern Luzon State University, and Sultan Kudarat State University.

Bernard Paul M. Mangulabnan, MMC Batch 33-Balaghan Class President, challenged the new batch to strive for excellence, urging them to live by three key phrases: “Salamat,” “Patawad,” and “Pinapatawad kita” (thank you; I am sorry; I forgive you). He shared that these phrases fostered a positive, harmonious environment in his batch, boosting morale and strengthening bonds.

MMC Batch 33 Class President Bernard Paul M. Mangulabnan inspires the incoming MMC Batch 34 by sharing his class’s core values: expressing gratitude, taking responsibility, and practicing forgiveness.

“MMC 34, as you start today, remember that each of you is not alone. Support each other, lean on each other, and celebrate milestones no matter how small they are,” Mangulabnan encouraged. “From MMC 33, we all wish you success, growth, and unforgettable memories ahead.”

MMC Batch 34 Class Representative Christopher Michael D. Parilla accepted the challenge, pledging to embody the wisdom of “salamat, patawad, and pinapatawad kita” throughout their journey. He highlighted that appreciation, understanding, and humility are the hallmarks of true leadership.

MMC Batch 34 Representative Christopher Michael D. Parilla shakes hands with MMC Batch 33 Class President Bernard Paul M. Mangulabnan, symbolizing their shared commitment to the PMDP program and the core values of effective leadership.

CSC Director Cherry Castro Berris, a distinguished PMDP alumna and inspirational speaker, addresses MMC Batch 34, sharing her experiences and imparting invaluable advice to guide them in their leadership  journey.

The scholars were further inspired by Director Cherry Castro Berris of the Civil Service Commission and alumna of MMC Batch 9 – Hiyas. She shared valuable insights from her PMDP journey, emphasizing resilience, collaboration, and curiosity as keys to success.  “Your journey will be challenging. There will be moments of self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy. These seasons of doubt will ultimately reveal your true character,” Berris advised.

Moved by  these words of wisdom, the MMC Batch 34 scholars embark on their journey, ready to become the future leaders who will shape a better tomorrow for the Philippines.

 

Watch the highlights of the event here.