Cebu Province receives 3rd award for good governance

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Provincial Government continues to bag awards for good governance, as Governor Hilario Davide III accepted the Seal of Good Local Governance award for the third consecutive cycle.

The award was handed by DILG Secretary Ismael Sueno, Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, and Undersecretary Austere Panadero last October 27 during the Philippine Local Governance Congressheld at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Pasay City.

Out of 1,672 LGUs assessed, 306 qualified for the award. National government agencies, civil society organizations and the private sector participated in the assessment proceedings.

Of these 306 LGU-awardees, Cebu Province was one of a few who have won in the previous cycle.

Cebu Province has been a recipient of the Seal for three consecutive years since the award was first launched in 2014.

For this year's awards criteria, a local government unit must pass all three core assessment areas: 1.) good financial housekeeping, 2.) disaster preparedness, and 3.) social protection;and must pass in at least one essential assessment area identified as1.) business-friendliness and competitiveness, 2.) peace and order, and 3.) environmental management.

The award entitles the province to several opportunities, including access to the Performance Challenge Fund, facilitation of loan approval through the issuance of Good Financial Housekeeping Certification, and other program windows subject to specific program guidelines.

Just two months ago, Davide was also among 10 governors who received a special citation from President Rodrigo Duterte for their compliance in his campaign against illegal drugs.

Sueno also indicated his expectations for the Cebu provincial government's commitment to sustain its remarkable performance in line with DILG's "tapat at mahusay na pamahalaang lokal" slogan.

In an official statement, Governor Hilario Davide III said, "It is with great pride and humility that I accept this recognition of excellence in governance on behalf of the Sugbuanons who are responsible for this award. We thank God for this blessing and let us continue to work hard and serve the public. Padayon kitang tanan sa pagtinabangay. Padayon ang atung kalambuan sa matag Sugbuanon."  (FREEMAN)