ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The City Government of Zamboanga once again demonstrated its strength and dedication to outstanding governance, receiving several prestigious awards during the 2024 Layag Awards of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
This annual program honors local government units (LGUs) across the Philippines for exemplary practices in governance, social services, and disaster preparedness.
This year, the city was recognized for its resilience and proactive approaches, highlighting its commitment to addressing community needs with integrity and inclusivity.
Mayor John Dalipe accepted the awards on behalf of Zamboanga City, showcasing the city’s achievements in various areas of governance.
Among the accolades received were the Regional Disaster Preparedness Index award, the Social Protection and Inclusivity award, and the distinguished 2024 Layag Award for Excellence in Local Governance, in Health, and Management of Infectious Diseases.
These recognitions emphasize Zamboanga’s capability not only in responding to local challenges but also in protecting and prioritizing the well-being of its citizens.
Meanwhile, around five barangays in Zamboanga City also received the Seal of Local Good Governance during the awarding.
Barangay Chairperson of Rio Hondo Jinnul Malik, one of the awardees, emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation of barangay officials to achieve the specific goals of their barangay.
DILG-9 Regional Director Paisal Abutazil commended the awardees and highlighted the profound impact of grassroots governance noting, “let this moment serve as a testament to the power of local governance and a reminder of our collective goal, a future where every community thrives and every citizen benefits from exceptional local service.”
He praised barangays as “the very heart of grassroots governance,” emphasizing that their active engagement is crucial in shaping resilient and empowered communities.
The 2024 Layag Awards capped off the month-long celebration of the 33rd Local Government Month, an event that pays tribute to the Local Government Code of 1991.
The code, a landmark in Philippine governance, has granted local governments greater autonomy, enabling them to address their constituents’ unique needs and making them accountable to the communities they serve. (EDT/MLE/PIA Region 9-Zamboanga City)
