The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is reinforcing the capacity of Metro Manila’s local government units (LGUs) to develop inclusive, future-ready infrastructure through Project AGSIKAP. This initiative responds to the growing urban demands and vulnerabilities of the region and supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s call for infrastructure projects that will transform lives.

Project AGSIKAP, which stands for Apprising Government Employees’ Skills on Infrastructure Projects and Knowledge on Monitoring and Evaluation, is a flagship initiative of DILG’s National Capital Region (DILG-NCR). Since its launch in 2021, AGSIKAP has empowered NCR LGUs to better implement and monitor infrastructure projects funded by the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF).

AGSIKAP has a collaborative framework, bringing together LGUs, national government agencies, the academe, and development organizations. Key partners include the UN Office for Project Services, UN Women, the Philippine Technological Council – Women Engineers Network, and the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers.

The program has successfully supported 318 LGSF-Financial Assistance to LGUs (FALGU) projects, achieving a 94.08% completion rate—the region’s highest to date. These projects span various areas, including infrastructure, disaster risk reduction, vehicle purchases, and the installation of surveillance systems.

For FY 2025, AGSIKAP will introduce a flexible, modular approach to address the unique needs and challenges of each LGU. This year, AGSIKAP expanded its focus to include gender equality, artificial intelligence, and sustainable green practices in infrastructure development. Its first session in May 2025 in Quezon City centered on gender-responsive approaches to LGU projects.

DILG-NCR also conducts monthly online sessions to discuss various aspects of infrastructure development with Metro Manila LGUs, ensuring continuous learning and capacity-building.

The goal of AGSIKAP is to go beyond compliance, helping LGUs integrate global best practices and empower them to innovate while adhering to legal and regulatory standards. As Metro Manila faces rapid urbanization, climate change, and evolving socio-economic challenges, Project AGSIKAP continues to strengthen LGUs’ ability to deliver resilient, community-centered infrastructure.

DILG remains committed to empowering LGUs to lead with vision, capability, and accountability.

Original Article At: https://dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-Empowers-Metro-LGUs-for-Future-Ready-Infrastructure-Through-Project-AGSIKAP/NC-2025-1106