The Department of the Interior and Local Government has urged the 10 winners of the 2023 Galing Pook Awards to share their outstanding local governance programs with other local government units to benefit more communities across the country.
In his message during the awarding ceremony in Pasay City on Oct. 12, Interior Sec. Benjamin Abalos Jr., who represented President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., urged the winners to collaborate with the DILG and Galing Pook Foundation in helping other LGUs emulate their transformative projects
“This October marks the anniversary of the Local Government Code of the Philippines. It speaks of autonomy; it speaks of devolution. And these winners, who exhibited beautiful projects, these are the epitome of true devolution, excellence, innovation, and resourcefulness,” he said.
“That’s why I’m asking you, work with us in DILG, Galing Pook, and let’s replicate these programs to other LGUs. It’s not just about winning, it’s not just about the awards. It’s also about sharing these beautiful practices to others,” said Abalos, who himself was a recipient of multiple Galing Pook awards during his term as mayor of Mandaluyong City.
President Marcos, in his message read by Abalos, also lauded the winners for their innovative and excellent programs that address various local challenges, and improved the lives of their constituents.
“Your unwavering dedication and innovative spirit are a testament to the resilience and determination of the Filipino people.” Marcos said.
The President also thanked the Galing Pook Foundation for empowering LGUs and civil society organizations to develop programs and social innovations for improved public service delivery.
The awardees were chosen from 166 applications from different local governments in the country.
The applicants were trimmed to 17 finalists, who then made panel presentations and underwent probing questions by a board of judges led by the DILG secretary.
Launched on Oct. 21, 1993, the Galing Pook Awards has already recognized over 330 LGU programs from at least 200 LGUs in the country that have been promoted for replication to benefit more communities. – PNA
