Large communities often encounter problems concerning the
relationship among its residents. The town of Pinili, Ilocos
Norte, is no different from this. People were indifferent
towards the community responsibility, since they had their
own lives to live. Community involvement was not a big thing
for them. To encourage people’s participation, Pinili’s
25 barangays were divided into several puroks, each one
headed by one or two elected kagawads or advisers.
Each purok has a Dap-ayan or a purok center. The
purok members using their own resources, creativity, and
resourcefulness erected these meeting places. To stay in
tuned with the residents’ needs, monthly meetings
to discuss any issue, including planning for future projects,
were held regularly. Information centers for government
policies and projects were available for the members of
the purok. In addition to that, Bible studies, non-formal
classes, workshops, and trainings were also provided.
Dap-ayans are accountable for the growth of their
own puroks. Each Dap-ayan formulates its own policies and
projects that address environmental, security, and social
issues. As a result, smaller clusters of homes gave residents
more responsibility towards their community. Peace and order,
cleanliness, and settling of disputes with no extra costs
are now prevalent in Pinili. The idea that the government
is close to the people is stressed with this change.
