President Marcos has issued a memorandum circular (MC) that directs government agencies and encourages local government units (LGUs) to observe “Community Development Week” and “Community Development Day” to uphold and instill the "Bayanihan Spirit" among Filipinos.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed the two-page Memorandum Circular No. 41, which aims to foster community empowerment, on Jan. 3.

The MC orders the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), in partnership with nongovernment and people’s organizations, to lead the activities and programs of the annual “Community Development Week” and “Community Development Day.”

It covers all national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, government financial institutions, and state universities and colleges.

Meanwhile, all LGUs are encouraged, to extend full support for, and cooperation in, the conduct of relevant activities and programs during the annual celebration of Community Development Week and Community Development Day.

The MC takes effect immediately.

Based on Proclamation No. 316 (s. 1994), the first week of January and the 6th of January of every year are declared as Community Development Week and Community Development Day, respectively, to uphold and instill in the consciousness of Filipinos the "Bayanihan Spirit" and the value of community cooperation.

The said proclamation also aims to recognize the invaluable contributions and concerted efforts of both government and nongovernment organizations in developing local communities, people empowerment, and community mobilization.