Candidates for e-GWEN shortlisted

CEBU, Philippines - An evaluation team has short-listed the candidates for the top 10 cities and municipalities and top 10 barangays in the expanded Green and Wholesome Environment that Nurtures (e-GWEN) program of Cebu.

The announcement of the winners will be on August 8 during the Partner’s Conference but the awarding will be on August 15 during the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo Festival of Festivals at the Cebu International Convention Center.

For three years, Capitol has been giving recognition to municipalities and barangays that have embodied good practices that make the province a livable place.

The composite team of evaluators is composed of representatives from the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., concerned national government agencies, and provincial offices.

Every year, they visited the 52 cities and municipalities three times to validate implementation by the LGUs of projects and programs on cleanliness, health and sanitation, protection and enhancement of the environment, artistry and aesthetic impact, and appreciation and promotion of culture and heritage.

Rowena Alinsonorin, RAFI executive director for integrated development, said a heavier weight is given to the last round of the validation because it is where sustainability can be seen.

 “By then it should already be a way of life,” she added.

The evaluation for the e-GWEN Best Highway, a sub-project of the e-GWEN program, will also start on August 23.

The project, which is on its first run, awards the best major thoroughfare, top 10 private residences, top 10 commercial structures, top 10 heritage sites, and the best municipal building or barangay hall along the highway.

Capitol has also enlisted the Department of Public Works and Highways for the implementation of the project.

The best among the six engineering districts in the province will also be given an award. The awarding for the e-GWEN Best Highway will be held in December. –(FREEMAN)