Re-launched Kapihan sa Aklan in March

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Beginning March, the most-talked-about issues and concerns in Aklan and the communities will be tackled over a cup of coffee.

Johnny Dayang, convenor of Kapihan sa Aklan, said the multi-sectoral forum will be re-launched on February 28 at 5 p.m. 

It will have its first regular weekly forum, to which the public is invited, on March 1 at 8 a.m.

Both events will be held at NVC Hotel Carmen at Pastrana Street in Kalibo, Aklan.

Kapihan sa Aklan is spearheaded by Aklan Media Forum in partnership with Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) and Federation of Provincial Press Clubs of the Philippines (FPPCP).

Dayang said a distinguished panel of speakers will discuss pressing and relevant issues and will engage in meaningful and insightful interaction from all sectors – the civil society, political, academe, the government and business every Saturday.

A steering and advisory council also provides invaluable insights, guidance, and overall oversight for the series of forums of Kapihan sa Aklan, he said.

On March 1, the weekly forum opens the topic on Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) Economic Integration in the year 2015 for a better grasp on its potential impact.

Way back six years ago or on March 23, 2008, the Kapihan sa Aklan was envisioned as an uninhibited and free-flowing swapping of views to gauge public sentiments and feel the real pulse of the people. 

It also serves as a feedback mechanism for the government to enable it to strengthen the delivery of vital services to the people and forge stronger and closer rapport.

Kapihan sa Aklan also has been a venue for civil society and the government agencies to elaborate their plans and to discuss different issues that everyone felt matter to them and to the community.