Written By: Beatriz Faye G. Carreon | Photos By: Jandawyne Francis M. Caluya

Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur – In a significant event aimed at fostering inter-regional collaboration and sharing of best practices, a delegation from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region I conducted a courtesy visit to the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Pagadian City on January 29, 2026.

The visiting officials were warmly received at the City Hall. The welcome message was delivered by City Councilor, Hon. Lance Samuel F. Co, who expressed the LGU’s enthusiasm for the exchange. The visit was also graced by the presence of City Mayor, Hon. Samuel S. Co, who underscored the importance of such dialogues in enhancing local governance and addressing common challenges faced by LGUs across the archipelago. 

Following the formal meeting, the LGU hosted a city tour designed to showcase the vibrant city of Pagadian. The tour provided the Region I delegates with a firsthand look at the city’s key infrastructure projects, public facilities, and community programs that have contributed to its growth and development as the regional center of Zamboanga Peninsula. 

The entire engagement was successfully facilitated by DILG Region IX, demonstrating the Department’s role as a conduit for inter-LGU learning. Orchestrating the seamless coordination was Pagadian City Local Government Operations Officer (CLGOO) Maribel C. Estoquia, whose efforts ensured the visit was both productive and insightful.

The courtesy visit stands as a testament to the DILG’s commitment to promoting excellence in local governance through peer learning and solidarity. It provided a valuable platform for DILG Region I to observe Pagadian City’s initiatives, while also allowing LGU Pagadian City to share its experiences and successes, thereby strengthening the network of governance innovation across the country.