The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is intensifying its push for decentralization, strengthening local autonomy and empowering local government units (LGUs) to lead governance reforms, sustainable resource management, and community development across the country.

Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to further strengthen local governance and maximize the gains of decentralization, the DILG has expanded its initiatives to equip LGUs with the policy tools, research support, and institutional platforms needed to lead reforms at the local level.

Through its Decentralization and Local Governance Reform Advocacy Program (DLGRAP), the Department has convened national forums, research conferences, and capacity-building initiatives that place LGUs at the center of policy innovation and local development.

Among the key activities was the forum on Sustainable and Equitable Administration of Waters, Aquatic Resources and Development in Aklan, which culminated in the adoption of the Boracay Declaration and Call to Action. The declaration reflects the collective commitment of local governments to protect coastal resources while ensuring that development remains inclusive and beneficial to local communities.

The forum also examined the implications of the Supreme Court ruling in BFAR vs. Mercidar Fishing Corporation, highlighting the need for clearer policies on municipal water jurisdiction and stronger protection for municipal fisherfolk.

To further strengthen evidence-based policymaking, the Department conducted 20 decentralization conferences nationwide attended by representatives from government, civil society organizations, and academic institutions.

A total of 86 research studies were presented covering key governance issues such as fiscal autonomy following the Mandanas-Garcia Ruling, the professionalization of barangay officials, digital governance, and youth participation through the Sangguniang Kabataan. These studies will be compiled into thematic publications this year to guide policy development and future governance reforms.

DLGRAP also strengthened youth engagement through the National Youth Summit 2025 themed “KASIKAT: Empowering Our Roots, Shaping Vibrant Governance,” highlighting Indigenous Peoples’ representation and youth leadership in local governance.

Meanwhile, the Department launched a Barangay Merger Toolkit in Ormoc City to guide LGUs exploring barangay consolidation as a strategy to improve administrative efficiency and improve public service delivery.

This year, the DILG, through DLGRAP, will further expand stakeholder engagement through Talakayang Maihayag sa Bayan on Decentralization, a multi-sector platform that will surface reform proposals and policy recommendations from decentralization studies. The Department will also convene the 2026 ReDeCon to consolidate support for key reforms identified in last year’s commissioned research.