DILG tells Western Visayas LGUs: Emulate good local governance practices by 'Galing Pook' awardees
By Chito Chavez

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) urged local government units (LGUs) in Western Visayas (Region 6) to adhere to the good governance practices of the localities as exemplified by the "2023 Galing Pook Awardees."
The Galing Pook Awards program recognizes, capacitates, and promotes innovation, sustainability, citizen empowerment, and excellence in local governance through exemplary projects and initiatives.
In a statement, DILG Regional Office 6 Director Juan Jovian Ingeniero urged the LGUs to take inspiration from the award-winning projects and best practices of victorious localities during the recently held 2023 "Galing Pook" Awardees Exhibit Series Iloilo Leg.
Ingeniero also emphasized this in recognizing the role of "Galing Pook" in promoting models of good governance.
Using the Iloilo and its Galing Pook-certified project "Zero to Limpyo Iloilo: Movement for a province-wide ZOD," a comprehensive initiative aimed at eliminating open defecation, as an example, Ingeniero stressed that "Ilonggos should take pride in the fact that their local officials are actively seeking for strategic solutions to address pressing concerns in the province."
He added that service delivery of public servants should extend beyond the confines of what is comfortable, addressing the present needs of the community while simultaneously envisioning a better future for the LGU.
Former DILG Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento, who is the head of the Galing Pook Foundation, called on the LGUs to follow the exemplary practices of their counterparts while tailoring them to suit their unique community.
He also commended the Iloilo for pioneering such initiatives, not only in select municipalities but across the entire province, setting a commendable precedent for others to follow.
The former DILG chief also encouraged Iloilo to extend support to visiting LGUs, serving as a beacon of guidance and inspiration.