In a remarkable display of local governance excellence, twelve out of the thirteen cities in Negros Occidental, including the bustling Bacolod City, have been recognized as recipients of the 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) award. The announcement was made by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday, highlighting the cities’ commitment to high standards in governance.
Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez expressed his gratitude to the city’s departments for their hard work, emphasizing that the award is a testament to their collective efforts. “This achievement is a true product of team effort, and each one of you deserves to be recognized and applauded. This one’s for Bacolod City,” he stated proudly.
The DILG-Negros Occidental extended its congratulations to all the winners from the province, praising their dedication to transparency, accountability, and community-focused service. “Your commitment inspires us all. Together, let us continue to set the bar for responsive and sustainable local governance,” they encouraged.
The list of awardees includes the component cities of Bago, Cadiz, Escalante, Himamaylan, La Carlota, Sagay, San Carlos, Silay, Sipalay, Talisay, and Victorias, in addition to Bacolod. Kabankalan was the only city in the province that did not receive the award this year.
Other recipients from Negros Occidental include the province itself and the municipalities of EB Magalona, Hinigaran, Ilog, Isabela, La Castellana, and Manapla.
Cadiz City, under the leadership of Mayor Salvador Escalante, was particularly commended for its dedication to excellence, transparency, and accountability. The city government stated, “This prestigious honor reflects the unwavering commitment of Cadiz City to excellence, transparency, and accountability in public service. Their dedication sets a powerful example and serves as an inspiration to communities everywhere.”
Victorias City Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez also celebrated the award, noting it as a recognition of their city’s commitment to exemplary public service and governance. “This award proves our sustained efforts toward transparent, inclusive, and sustainable governance,” he remarked.
Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II highlighted that the award is more than just a recognition; it signifies that Negros Occidental has not only met but surpassed the DILG’s standards in implementing programs, projects, and activities.
The SGLG, established through Republic Act 11292 in 2019, is designed to encourage local government units (LGUs) to continuously improve their performance across various governance areas. The award follows the “All-in” principle, requiring local governments to excel in all areas, including Financial Administration and Sustainability, Disaster Preparedness, Social Protection and Sensitivity, Health Compliance and Responsiveness, Sustainable Education, Business-Friendliness and Competitiveness, Safety, Peace and Order, Environmental Management, Tourism, Heritage Development, Culture and Arts, and Youth Development.