DILG aids NCR LGUs in monitoring, building worthy infra projects
By Chito Chavez
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has capacitated the Metro Manila local government units (LGUs) in developing inclusive and future-ready infrastructure projects.
Under the Apprising Government Employees’ Skills on Infrastructure Projects and Knowledge on Monitoring and Evaluation (AGSIKAP), the initiative is in response to the growing urban demands and vulnerabilities of the region that supports the call of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, Jr. for the implementation of “infrastructure projects that will transform lives.’’
Project AGSIKAP, is the flagship initiative of the DILG National Capital Region.
“Since its launch in 2021, AGSIKAP has empowered NCR LGUs to better implement and monitor infrastructure projects funded by the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF),’’ the DILG noted.
The DILG confided that AGSIKAP has a collaborative framework, bringing together LGUs, national government agencies, the academe and development organizations.
Further, the DILG revealed that the project’s key partners include the UN Office for Project Services, UN Women, the Philippine Technological Council-Women Engineers Network and the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers.
In a statement, the DILG stated that the program has successfully supported 318 LGSF-Financial Assistance to LGUs (FALGU) projects, achieving a 94.08 percent completion rate-the region’s highest to date.
It added that these projects span various areas, including infrastructure, disaster risk reduction, vehicle purchases, and the installation of surveillance systems.
For fiscal year 2025, AGSIKAP will introduce a flexible, modular approach to address the unique needs and challenges of each LGU.
In the current year, the DILG disclosed that the AGSIKAP expanded its focus to include gender equality, artificial intelligence, and sustainable green practices in infrastructure development.
With the initial session conducted last May 2025, which centered on gender-responsive approaches to LGU projects, the DILG-NCR also has conducted monthly online sessions to discuss various aspects of infrastructure development with Metro Manila LGUs, ensuring continuous learning and capacity-building.
“The goal of AGSIKAP is to go beyond compliance, helping LGUs integrate global best practices and empower them to innovate while adhering to legal and regulatory standards,’’ the DILG explained.
With the National Capital Region (NCR) facing “rapid urbanization, climate change and evolving socio-economic challenges,’’ the DILG assured that the “Project AGSIKAP continues to strengthen LGUs' ability to deliver resilient, community-centered infrastructure.’’
The DILG also vowed to remain committed to empowering the LGUs in leading with vision, capability and accountability.