Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO)
MANILA, Philippines — Makati City’s virtual queuing management system for its healthcare service, Quezon City’s integrated real-time calamity monitoring systems, and Pasig City’s pre-hospital care and emergency medical program were among the winners in the 2023 Galing Pook Awards ceremonies on Thursday.
The three cities in Metro Manila joined seven other local government units (LGUs) nationwide that were honored by the Galing Pook Foundation and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for their transformational projects.
The event, led by Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, recognized the efforts of the 10 LGUs in implementing projects that exemplified “true devolution, excellence, innovation and resourcefulness.”
“This October marks the anniversary of the Local Government Code of the Philippines. It speaks of autonomy; it speaks of devolution. And these winners, who exhibited beautiful projects, these are the epitome of true devolution, excellence, innovation and resourcefulness,” Abalos said.
In his message as read by Abalos, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. praised the winners for their innovative programs which effectively addressed local challenges and improved the lives of their constituents.
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Other winners
Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte, was honored for its Seal of Health Governance program promoting community health and fostering accountability and empowerment at the grassroots level.
Davao Oriental province was cited for its Happy Home initiative for former rebels.
General Santos City was commended for the Shari’a Atas Bitiara project facilitating peaceful resolutions to various disputes.
Iloilo province was hailed for its groundbreaking “Mobilizing Communities through People-Centered Zero Open Defecation Movement Towards Sustainable Sanitation.”
Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, won praise for its “Fish From The Mountains” initiative, promoting sustainable aquaculture.
Bataan province was acclaimed for its “1Bataan Seal of Healthy Barangay,” which incentivizes health initiatives by recognizing barangays that achieve zero cases in key health concerns.
Citizenship awards
Barangay Taloot, Argao, Cebu, was honored for its “Barangay Taloot Community-Based Integrated Approach,” which highlights the importance of community collaboration, particularly among residents.
Also honored with the 2023 Galing Pook Citizenship Awards were the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc.; Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative; Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation; Health Futures Foundation, Inc.; and Espoir School of Life for its work in behalf of community development.
The winners were selected from 166 applications submitted by various local governments across the country.
Since its inception on Oct. 21, 1993, the Galing Pook Awards seeks to celebrate community-driven progress.