by: Charish Dane V. Boniel

Butuan City - The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Regional Office XIII, in its unwavering commitment to enhancing the capabilities of its workforce, recently conducted an In-House Capacity Development for Presentation and Facilitation Skills last October 13, 2023. The aim of the said training was to equip DBM personnel with essential skills to effectively deliver presentations and facilitate group interactions during various activities.

Regional Director Maria Fe D. Jagna emphasized the importance of conducting this capacity-building activity in anticipation of numerous forthcoming activities and technical assistance to the clientele agencies. This includes the conduct of Hisgot-Bansay for Department of Education (DepEd) Finance Personnel, the upcoming roll-out of the Budget Operations Manual (BOM) for LGUs 2023 Edition and the series of capacity building activities for the newly-elected Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials.

The training covered topics related to enhancing the skills of the participants in areas involving presentation and facilitation. The first topic, delivered by Ms. Ma. Gloria E. Liquido, PhD., Professor II and at the same time the Director of the Office of Curriculum & Instruction Development of Caraga State University, focused on "Adult Learning Principles and Methodology Correlate Understanding of One's Role in Learning Environment." Participants learned about the six key principles and several methodologies of adult learning that could help them understand how to effectively impart knowledge and engage adult learners. Understanding and actual application of these principles and methodologies would aid DBM Trese on coming up with more effective and engaging technical assistance to their clientele agencies.

The second topic, presented by Ms. Janine S. Gelaga, MAEL, Instructor I and the Communication Coordinator of Caraga State University, delved into "Essential Presentation Skills." Ms. Gelaga tackled the order of events in making presentations, which includes: 1) conducting research, which suggests having a better grasp of the topic to be presented as well as knowing the audience beforehand; 2) making visual presentation, which focuses on the clarity and conciseness in a way the audience could easily comprehend; 3) dressing appropriately as a sign of respect to the audience, to the presenter and to the presentation; 4) delivering the presentation from an ordinary into an impactful one; 5) handling participants by keeping them interested and giving them a reason to listen; and, 6) managing question and answer sessions as questions form an important part of the presentation as it allows clarification and consolidation of learning. Following these key points would help improve the delivery of engaging, informative, and memorable presentations. Practice and experience are essential for refining presentation skills over time. With the right approach, anyone could become a more effective and confident presenter, leaving a positive impression on the audience.

Assistant Regional Director Jenneth C. Partosa capped the event by stressing out DBM RO XIII’s commitment to continuously develop and empower its workforce with each employee being agile and dynamic and is able to cope up in a VUCA world. The conducted training would enable employees to fulfill their roles more effectively in their future engagements as resource persons or speakers during lectures, invitations, and other similar events.

With the acquired presentation and facilitation skills, DBM Trese staff are better prepared to contribute to the success of upcoming activities by delivering impactful sessions and engaging with various stakeholders and play a vital role in strengthening public financial management.