Representing DILG Secretary Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr., Regional Director Juan Jovian E. Ingeniero, CESO, delivered a message during the Opening Ceremony of the 2023 Galing Pook Awardees Exhibit Series Iloilo Leg at SM City Iloilo Event Center, Iloilo City.

The exhibit showcased the 10 Outstanding Local Governance Programs of the 2023 Galing Pook Awards, with a special feature on Iloilo Province and their groundbreaking initiative, Zero to Limpyo Iloilo: Movement for a Province-wide ZOD.

In his message, RD Ingeniero recognizes the role of Galing Pook in promoting models of good governance. He also emphasized that Ilonggos should take pride in the fact that their local officials are actively seeking for strategic solutions to address pressing concerns in the Province. RD Ingeniero also believes that service delivery of public servants should extend beyond the confines of what is comfortable, addressing the present needs of the community while simultaneously envisioning a better future for the LGU.

The ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Mel Senen S. Sarmiento, former DILG Secretary and current Chairperson of the Galing Pook Foundation. In his inspiring address, Mr. Sarmiento urged local government units (LGUs) to emulate the exemplary practices of their counterparts while tailoring them to suit their unique community. He commended the Province of Iloilo for pioneering such initiatives, not only in select municipalities but across the entire province, setting a commendable precedent for others to follow. Mr. Sarmiento’s remarks underscored the transformative potential for provinces nationwide, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing. He further encouraged Iloilo Province to extend support to visiting LGUs, serving as a beacon of guidance and inspiration.

Present also during the opening ceremony are DILG Iloilo Provincial Director Engr. Carmelo F. Orbista, LGMED Chief Maricel M. Bechayda and Province of Iloilo Governor Hon. Arthur R. Defensor, Jr.
The Galing Pook Award program not only recognizes, capacitates, and promotes innovation, sustainability, citizen empowerment, and excellence in local governance but also encourages the public to demand similar, initiatives from their local government units to nominate for the award, advocating for the creation of more resilient communities across the Philippines.#