2018 has been an exciting and fruitful year for the Department of the Interior and Local Government -Zamboanga Peninsula Region. With the advent of numerous challenges in the implementation of our programs, projects, and activities – DILG IX has remain steadfast in its commitment to deliver seamless quality service to its local government units.

Over the past twelve months, we saw our hard work result in the achievement of several important milestones in the conduct of various vital activities of the department. These milestones represent significant progress in attaining our vision to provide services that are effective and efficient geared towards championing local governance.

We have effectively provided an avenue for our local government units, national government agencies, people’s organization, and the private sector to discuss issues on the peace and order situation in Mindanao through the regular quarterly meeting of our Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC). This venue provided a deeper understanding on the part of our LGUs, partner agencies, and POs on alleviating conflict and addressing crucial issues in the war against criminality and terrorism.

2018 has also been a year of reaping positive gains from previous intensified projects such as the Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) programs which have impacted communities and numerous LGUs attaining drug-cleared and drug free certifications.

We have also provided numerous capacity building programs for ease of doing business and disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation; and have successfully conducted monitoring activities for locally funded projects such as Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig Para sa Lahat (SalinTubig) and Assistance to Municipalities (AM) programs.

In its commitment to provide quality service, DILG IX has also secured a Quality Management System (QMS) ISO 9001:2015 Certification last year through the efforts of its regional and field personnel.

Looking ahead, 2019 is shaping up to be a spectacular year for DILG IX, as we continue our efforts to accelerate and improve the implementation of the different programs, projects and activities of the department.

I would like to personally thank the DILG IX regional and field personnel who, through their dedication and support, has had a hand in the department’s success. I look forward to your continued support and hard work as we usher in new successes for 2019. May God bless us all!