DILG Camarines Sur honors LGUs forexcellence in governance, public service

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Camarines Sur Provincial Office has recognized local government units (LGUs) in the province for demonstrating exemplary leadership and effective governance.

The recognition was made through the Luminary Isarog Awards held at the DTC Hall in the Provincial Capitol Complex in Pili, Camarines Sur, which highlights the LGUs’ accomplishments on peace and order, anti-drug abuse, child protection, and programs addressing violence against women.

DILG Provincial Director Ray Caceres said the recognition aims to acknowledge LGUs that consistently exemplify outstanding public stewardship and showcase commendable public service. He enjoined them in continuously sustaining their gains.

It also aims to highlight the commitment of these LGUs to transparency, accountability, and responsive public service

“Kailangan nating bigyan ng parangal or recognition ang mga LGUs na nakakakuha ng mataas na mga marka sa mga audits or performance indicators kasi nagpapakita ito na may mga ginagawa ang LGUs,” Caceres said.

(We should recognize LGUs that score high in audits or performance measures, since it is proof that they deliver on their mandate.)

He noted that LGU performance ratings in the province have steadily improved over the years. From only a handful of LGUs attaining high-functional ratings in key governance audits in 2022, nearly all LGUs in Camarines Sur achieved the distinction in several indicators during the 2024 assessment period.

Caceres said the program also serves as a platform to showcase innovations and best practices that contributed to the strong performance of LGUs.

“Over and above these certificates ay pagbibigay namin ng pugay sa mga innovations, best practices ng LGUs kung bakit nagkaroon sila ng mataas na performance rating,” he added.

Among the awardees is the municipality of Libmanan. Mayor Son Marfil said the recognition reflects the collective efforts of public servants, partner agencies, and community stakeholders in improving local governance.

Marfil said compliance with DILG standards helped streamline government transactions and ensure the timely implementation of public services and development projects in the municipality.

“Malaki ang pagbabago. Number one po doon, nagiging smooth ang lahat ng transactions at on time po ang delivery natin ng services and development projects sa Libmanan,” he said.

(There had been remarkable changes; foremost, all transactions are running smoothly, and the delivery of services and development projects is on time.)

The official also attributed the town’s achievement to the effective implementation of its annual investment program and strict adherence to DILG guidelines and standards.

While the recognition program is conducted annually and the key indicators remain the same, Caceres said this year’s event introduced distinct award titles under the Luminary Isarog Awards to highlight outstanding governance performance.

Caceres said DILG will continue working with LGUs, the provincial government, national government agencies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders in advancing local governance initiatives and delivering quality public services to their communities. (Nicole Frilles contributed to this story/ PIA 5-Camarines Sur)

Awardees and guests pose during the Luminary Isarog Awards of DILG-Camarines Sur at the Provincial Capitol Complex in Pili, Camarines Sur. The award recognized local government units, national government agencies, and partner organizations for their governance performance and support to public service initiatives.