The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is ramping up efforts to help local government units (LGUs) improve governance and service delivery through its Regional Institutional Development Support (RIDS) program, a complementary initiative to the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG).

Launched in 2024, RIDS uses SGLG assessment results to identify governance weaknesses and provide targeted capacity development and institutional support to LGUs that did not earn the SGLG in 2023.

Data from the DILG showed that only 28.75 percent, or 493 out of 1,714 LGUs, passed the SGLG in 2023, including 28 provinces, 64 cities, and 401 municipalities. Non-passing LGUs faced challenges in key areas, particularly financial administration, disaster preparedness, and social protection.

In his message, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla highlighted the broader impact of RIDS on local governance, noting that the program provides valuable insights into how LGUs can enhance performance and service delivery.

“The RIDS initiative reflects the Department’s vision of building resilient, development driven communities,” Remulla stated. “Through focused capacity development and institutional support, RIDS enables LGUs to align their priorities with national objectives,” he added.

The DILG Secretary also said the RIDS program is designed to provide targeted support to LGUs, helping them overcome governance challenges, improve public service delivery, and align local priorities with national development goals.

“This offers valuable insights on how LGUs can strengthen governance, enhance service delivery, and address development challenges on the ground,” the DILG Chief said. “It reaffirms the Department’s commitment to equipping LGUs with the tools, knowledge, and technical support necessary to lead impactful reforms at the local level,” he continued.

Early results from RIDS have been encouraging. Several DILG regional offices reported projected increases in SGLG passers among previously non-passing LGUs.