Amid the rising numbers of leptospirosis and dengue cases in tandem with the threat of the spread of mpox (formerly monkeypox) in the country, President Marcos has urged local government units (LGUs) to maximize the use of technology to promote public health and transform their respective communities.

Marcos said this as he graced the second day of the Local Governance Summit 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City on Friday, Aug. 23.

In his speech, the President said that with the surge in leptospirosis and dengue cases that the Department of Health (DOH) has attributed to improper garbage disposal and poor waste management, local chief executives must embrace digitalization and utilize technology to address these issues.

"It is incumbent upon us to promote these smart solutions, such as innovative technologies and strategies, so we can maximize its advantages, especially in the face of challenges that threaten the overall wellbeing of our constituents," he said.

"Local chief executives must work harder to utilize environmentally sound methods and waste minimization measures to protect public health and, of course, our environment," he added, noting that the solid waste management problem was a major factor in the flooding in the Metro Manila during the onslaught of Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon in the past month.

With this, Marcos urged the local chief executives to use technology to remind people to care for their health and arrest the spread of communicable diseases.

"I urge you all to lead aggressive information dissemination campaigns to promote a healthy lifestyle and prevent diseases, such as a campaign to remind our people, especially children, against swimming in floodwaters and to practice personal hygiene to mitigate the spread of leptospirosis, mpox, and other illnesses," he said.

"I also look to technology to provide the answers. There are so many schemes, proposals, and new technology being developed precisely to solve this problem. I urge you all to look into them as quickly and deeply as possible so we can finally solve this problem," he added.

Spearheaded by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP), the Summit seeks to enhance collaboration between national and local governments.

With the theme, "LGUs sa Bagong Pilipinas: Smart. Resilient. Driven.," the event brings together local leaders and stakeholders to explore innovative approaches and share best practices in governance and public service.

It also aims to update LGUs and stakeholders on the latest developments in governance, share best practices on digital transformation and climate resilience, and strengthen LGUs' capabilities in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Transform communities  

In his speech, President Marcos said he hoped that LGUs would look at the Summit as an opportunity to transform their communities, especially through technology.

"This is an opportunity for each of us to reflect on the huge responsibility that we all hold in our hands— the ability to transform our respective communities and the lives of those that are in those communities," he said.

"In this age of technological advancements, it has become imperative to utilize all the latest tools and strategies to explore and improve our daily operations," he added, noting that this applies to infrastructure, urban planning, and applying for a business permit.

Marcos assured the local executives that they were not alone in this mission.

"This is the moment to rise as effective stewards of your respective localities, to drive progress in your communities, [and] to nurture a culture of collaboration amongst concerned stakeholders," he said.

"The national government is always here to assist and to find ways for you in your specific communities how we can improve this situation," he added.

Marcos emphasized that the national government relies on the guidance and service of local officials to uplift the citizens' quality of life.

"I look forward that you will continue to be accountable, reliable, and efficient in bringing our people closer to the opportunities that they all deserve," he said.

"Your cooperation with the national government is invaluable for it is only with your help that we can achieve our shared aspirations. so as leaders, let us remain worthy of the trust and confidence of our fellow Filipinos," he added.