The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has laid down the criteria and guidelines for the local government units (LGUs) to be considered as ‘effective’ and ‘high- performing’ localities in their governance.

In a statement, the DILG identified “several pillars and cornerstones for local government units (LGUs) to be effective based on Republic Act (RA) 7160.’’

The DILG stated that the LGUs are held accountable to their constituents through mechanisms like regular elections, performance audits and citizen participation.

In terms of responsiveness and efficiency, the DILG noted that the LGUs should be able to efficiently deliver basic services and respond promptly to the needs of their constituents.

On the aspect of people participation and empowerment, the citizens should be given the opportunities to join in the decision-making processes and hold their elected officials accountable.

With regards to effective partnerships and collaboration, the DILG pointed out that the LGU “can leverage partnerships with civil society organizations, the private sector and other government agencies to enhance their capacity and achieve shared goals.’’

Pertaining to sustainability and development, the DILG asserted that the LGU must manage their resources responsibly and ‘promote sustainable development’ within their jurisdiction.

The DILG also explained that the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) Incentive Fund that goes to the country’s best-performing LGUs to support their respective local development initiatives   

“Makatatanggap ang lahat ng LGU awardees ng SGLG marker at incentive fund ng P4 na milyon para sa mga probinsya, P2.3 milyon para sa mga siyudad at P1.8 milyon para sa mga munisipalidad (All LGU awardees will receive the SGLG marker and incentive fund of P4 million for the provinces, P2.3 million for the cities and P1.8 million for the municipalities),’’ the DILG clarified.