Aurora Province has solidified its reputation for exemplary governance and public service, receiving the 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) award from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). The accolade was presented at the Manila Hotel, marking a significant achievement for the province led by Governor Reynante Tolentino and Vice Governor Jennifer Araña.
Governor Tolentino, speaking the day after the award ceremony, emphasized the province’s commitment to maintaining its high governance standards while pushing forward with development in crucial sectors such as tourism, economic growth, and inclusive governance. He highlighted that Aurora’s placement in the competitive Cluster 4 category underscores its effective governance and resilience.
The SGLG award, Tolentino noted, plays a pivotal role in attracting investments and bolstering the local economy. He stated that the recognition enhances Aurora’s image as a model of good governance, reassuring potential investors and partners of its stability and growth potential. The province’s natural beauty, rich heritage, and strategic location are seen as key assets for advancing its tourism, trade, and infrastructure sectors.
The SGLG recognition not only serves as a badge of honor but also as a gateway to new partnerships and funding opportunities, which are essential for driving sustainable economic progress in Aurora. The province was one of 41 provinces to receive this award, with six of its eight municipalities also honored: Baler, Maria Aurora, San Luis, Dipaculao, Dingalan, and Dinalungan.
Out of the 1,724 provinces, cities, and municipalities nationwide, Aurora was among the 714 recipients that successfully passed the DILG’s stringent validation process. The province met various indicators, including Financial Administration and Sustainability, Disaster Preparedness, Social Protection and Sensitivity, Health Compliance and Responsiveness, Sustainable Education, Business Friendliness and Competitiveness, and Safety, Peace, and Order.
Governor Tolentino attributed the province’s success to the hard work of DILG-Aurora, the provincial staff, local government officials, and the support from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.