MANILA: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the critical role of local chief executives in fostering real change during the 2024 Galing Pook Awards at Malacañan Palace. He urged local government units (LGUs) to continue innovating and implementing effective policies and programs to create a resilient future.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos commended the LGUs for their compassion and innovative programs that demonstrate out-of-the-box thinking. He highlighted the need for national and local governments to collaborate with the private sector and non-government organizations to achieve substantial change. The President also acknowledged the Galing Pook Foundation for its partnership in enhancing local governance standards.
The Galing Pook Awards recognize LGU programs that improve lives by creating jobs, protecting the environment, promoting rights, enhancing education, and strengthening communities. Marcos praised the LGUs’ resourcefulness and ability to find solutions without waiting fo
r national directives. He urged local officials to continue pushing for innovation in governance.
The 2024 Galing Pook Awards honored several winners, including Balanga City, Bataan, for its Community-based Ecotourism Zone, and Bataan province for a collaborative initiative in language restoration. Other awardees were Cabagan, Isabela; Kapalong, Davao del Norte; Ormoc City; Pandi, Bulacan; Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro; Quezon City; Taguig City; and Valenzuela City for various impactful programs.
For the past thirty years, the Galing Pook Awards have highlighted the transformative power of local governance in driving innovations that lead to efficient service delivery and improved community outcomes.