When a local government unit (LGU) earns the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), it gains more than recognition. It receives access to the SGLG Incentive Fund (SGLGIF), a critical tool for strengthening public service delivery and promoting lasting change in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda for resilient, responsive, and inclusive local governance.

SGLG awardees and SGLGIF grantees are expected to sustain their commitment to excellence, in support of the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) efforts to institutionalize good governance nationwide.

From 352 LGU passers in 2022, to 493 in 2023, and 714 in 2024, the DILG has seen a steady rise in LGUs recognized for exemplary governance, resulting in more high-impact development projects funded through SGLGIF.

Eligible LGUs are encouraged to implement initiatives across key areas such as fiscal sustainability, disaster preparedness, health responsiveness, education, business competitiveness, social protection, peace and order, environmental management, tourism, youth development, and digital transformation.

The Provincial Government of Sarangani used its SGLGIF to construct a Provincial Tourism Center, boosting local tourism and supporting producers. “Ang gusto lang naman ng mga producers ay ma-offer nila ang mga products nila at magka-income sila. Isa na ito sa mga stepping stone namin para ma-capture yung mga bisitang pumupunta,” said Oliva Martos, a local producer. Jacob Adaptar of DTI-Sarangani added that the center supports MSMEs by expanding their One Town, One Product (OTOP) Hub program. “It serves as an extension of our program to exhibit products of local food processors and artisans,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Province of South Cotabato addressed IT infrastructure issues by procuring new ICT server equipment using the incentive fund. “Dati, ang server namin is tatlo. Biglang nag-down yung isa. Mabuti na lang nabigyan kami ng incentive, kaya nadagdagan kami ng dalawa pang servers,” said Ben Villones, Computer Maintenance Technologist. “Mas bumilis yung response ng system kapag gumagawa kami ng documents, automatic, may result na kaagad,” shared Junrey Paches of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC).

The SGLGIF ensures that LGUs with a proven record of good governance are empowered to scale up their efforts, turning recognition into real, measurable improvements. This demonstrates DILG’s commitment to advancing local development aligned with national priorities.

Original Article At: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/Selyo-ng-Pagbabago-DILGs-SGLGIF-Drives-Local-Progress-Better-Services/NC-2025-1140