In a significant recognition of excellence in local governance, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has awarded PHP13.377 million in incentives to the provincial government of Antique and nine of its municipalities for their outstanding performance in the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) program. The ceremonial handover took place in San Jose de Buenavista, where Governor Rhodora Cadiao, along with representatives from the winning local government units (LGUs), received their awards and incentives.
The municipalities of Barbaza, Belison, Culasi, Libertad, Pandan, Patnongon, San Jose de Buenavista, San Remigio, and Valderrama were among the recipients. Jessana Carmela Tatoy, the DILG Antique SGLG focal person, announced that the provincial government received PHP3 million, while each of the nine LGUs was awarded PHP1.153 million.
Governor Cadiao stated that the provincial government plans to use its incentive to purchase an ambulance for the Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital. Meanwhile, the municipalities have outlined various projects to utilize their funds effectively. Barbaza aims to enhance its municipal children’s playground, Belison and Culasi plan to install closed-circuit television systems, and Libertad is set to construct a Level 2 water system. Pandan will focus on building a waste containment area, and Patnongon will work on river flood control measures.
Further, San Jose de Buenavista intends to buy a garbage truck, San Remigio will construct a center for persons with disabilities and senior citizens, and Valderrama will develop a tourist information and souvenir center. These initiatives reflect the diverse needs and priorities of the communities within Antique, showcasing how the SGLG incentives are being used to improve local services and infrastructure.