Written by: Genephine G. Caraca | Photos by: Reeven Sheena L. Tan

Zamboanga del Norte – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region IX, through its Project Development and Management Unit (PDMU), carried out the validation for proposed projects under the Seal of Good Local Governance Incentive Fund (SGLGIF) from January 20-24, 2025. This was led by SGLGIF Regional Office Focal Engr. Alison Mayasa and Provincial Office Focal Engr. Ian S. Signar, along with ISA III Reeven Sheena L. Tan and PEO II Genephine G. Caraca.

This initiative was conducted to ensure that projects proposed by the 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance passers in the province meet the criteria of the SGLGIF. The municipalities of Gutalac, Labason, Liloy, Manukan, and Dapitan City are among the local government units (LGUs) granted access to the incentive fund, earned by demonstrating outstanding performance in governance and service delivery. The program supports the implementation of impactful and sustainable development projects to communities.

The validation process included site inspections to assess whether proposed locations are suitable, accessible, and compliant with environmental requirements. Technical assessments were conducted to evaluate the soundness of the proposed projects and their alignment with the program’s priority areas. Additionally, recommendations were made to enhance the projects’ effectiveness and emphasized the importance of all documentary prerequisites such as securing permits, completing technical plans and preparing supporting documents based on the guidelines that will be issued ,prior to implementation.

Furthermore, follow-up activities were made to provide assistance and monitoring for Locally Funded Projects, addressing any issues that arose and also offered guidance to maximize the initiative.

The DILG IX, remains committed to supporting LGUs in Zamboanga del Norte to achieve their development goals by ensuring projects are properly validated and implemented, driving progress and improving community well-being.