MANILA, Philippines - Fourteen local government units nationwide were cited Friday for outstanding local governance for initiating programs ranging from peace and conflict resolution to environmental management and health and social services.
The Galing Pook awards are annually given to only 10 programs, but 2009 was deemed a banner year for good governance by the National Selection Committee chaired by Prof. Solita Monsod.
In a statement, Rafael Coscolluela, Galing Pook Foundation chairman, said five awardees hail from Mindanao, two from Visayas and seven from Luzon.
Coscolluela said the program of each local government unit was evaluated for innovation, positive results, transferability and sustainability, people’s participation, and efficiency.
“We have often heard of aspirations for more excellence in local government. We wished not just for islands but for an entire archipelago of good governance. This year’s awardees are a proud addition to our growing contingent of outstanding LGUs,” said Coscolluela.
The 2009 Galing Pook awardees are Sarangani Province; Midsayap, Cotabato; Tabuk, Kalinga; Barangay Luz, Cebu City; Marikina City; Taguig City; Quezon City; Bayawan City; Surallah, South Cotabato; Makati City; Malaybalay City; Barangay Barobo, Valencia City; Bulacan Province; and Parañaque City.
Coscolluela said Quezon City was recognized because the city’s Parks Development and Administration Department has helped transform the city with the development of the La Mesa Eco Park, the CP Garcia Park, North Olympus Park and the Tandang Sora Shrine, among others.
The proactive participation of various government entities, NGOs, the private sector and concerned community and church leaders in these projects have transformed the cityscape.
Barangays are empowered to develop parks in a cost-sharing arrangement with the city. Beyond image-building, the parks have helped increase property values, improve the residents’ well-being and promoted peace and order.
Parañaque City was chosen for its Adolescent Friendly Reproductive Health Services (AFRHS) program that promotes and provides quality health services responsive to the needs of adolescents. They are involved in planning, implementing and evaluating different interventions.
Makati City was cited for its Waste Diversion and Reduction Program that has reduced the volume of city waste by as much as 84,196 tons of equivalent carbon dioxide emissions.
Sarangani Province instituted Kalinaw Sarangani, a program that enjoins different ethno-linguistic groups to take part in peace-building, development planning, decision-making, governance and the formation of 50 peace and development communities. The program involves culture sensitivity practices, livelihood assistance, skills development, infrastructure and other social services.
Gawad Dr. Manuel G. Roxas recognized Bulacan province for outstanding achievements in public service.
A department or a cluster of departments presents a project to the awards committee. Projects must have community participation and are aligned with the office’s mandate.