Published on: November 16, 2023 | Written by: Eunitte Jay D. Bacay

Zamboanga City – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) IX, in celebration of the 32nd Local Government Celebration, remarkably pronounced the highlight of the week-long event, entitled ‘Layag Awards Night,’ at Garden Orchid Hotel, Zamboanga City on October 25, 2023. This significant awarding ceremony honored the remarkable Local Government Units (LGUs) for their unwavering dedication and ceaseless efforts in Zamboanga Peninsula.  

The Layag Awards Night aimed to highlight the best practices, accomplishments, and innovations of the Local Government Units that have charted a course of exemplary performances and groundbreaking achievements in various aspects of local governance. This ceremony aimed not only to recognize outstanding LGUs but also to inspire and motivate others to enhance their performance within the local government system. This collective effort fosters a more promising future for Zamboanga Peninsula by promoting mutual learning and inspiration. These awards are intended to recognize and honor local governments’ contributions to the provision of responsive, effective, and efficient services to their local communities. 

The award ceremony has conferred various awards upon deserving and compliant recipients:

Social Protection and Inclusivity Award (SPIA) – This award honors LGUs that demonstrate a strong commitment to social protection, community empowerment, and addressing diverse constituents’ needs. The SPIA aims to encourage LGUs to enhance basic service delivery, serve as a performance measurement platform for social protection, and recognize socially protected LGUs in Zamboanga Peninsula. 

Regional Disaster Preparedness Index (RDPI) – A performance measurement tool used to assess compliance with disaster risk reduction standards and emergency preparedness. 

Sangguniang Kabataan Award for Leadership and Administration (SKALA) – Aims to recognize outstanding SK Federation Councils for their effective management. It also serves as a platform for sharing best practices and success stories among SK Federated Councils in the region, ultimately encouraging excellence in service among young leaders. 

SubayBayani Awards – Acknowledges and honors Local Government Units (LGUs) for their exceptional performance in implementing various projects and programs, focusing on those funded through the local government support funds. 

Peace and Order Council Audit Top Performer Awards – Reflecting the significance of maintaining an environment where our communities can thrive and prosper, this award acknowledges that peace and order are not just ideals but attainable realities. It signifies the tireless efforts and exceptional achievements of the organization, which has consistently excelled in promoting the security, safety, and well-being of our citizens.  

Local Legislative Awards – Aims to promote effective and responsible governance at the local level by encouraging legislative bodies to contribute to desirable environmental outcomes. 

Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) – Aims to encourage and recognize local government units that deliver quality public service to their constituents, effectively manage resources, and uphold transparency and accountability in their operations. 

Layag Awards for Local Governance Stakeholders – Aims to recognize the tireless efforts and dedicated support of DILG IX’s partner National Government Agencies, Local Resource Institutes, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). 

Layag Awards for Excellence in Local Governance – Highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating innovative  practices developed by Local Government Units. 

The Layag Awards Night underscores the importance of good governance and the positive impact it has on the lives of the people in the region. This event not only celebrates achievements but also paves the way for continuous improvement and growth in the realm of local governance. 

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