Three local government units (LGUs) were recognized for their exemplary use of communication and modern technology to deliver information to their constituents. These awardees are Victorias City in Negros Occidental, the Municipality of Lupon in Davao Oriental, and the Province of Bataan.
Victorias City: "Sidlak Victorias"
In an interview during DILG sa DZRH Breaktime, Victorias City Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez shared their program, "Sidlak Victorias: Strengthening Community, Building Opportunity."
According to Benitez, Sidlak is a Hiligaynon word which means brilliance, splendor, and brightness, as they wanted to 'encapsulate and show the public all their small and big wins'.
"Kahit maliit man 'yan, kailangan malaman ng publiko dahil we are accountable and transparent to them," said the Mayor.
The program focuses on four key initiatives:
1. Lungsod Lunsad Victorias in Motion – Community engagement and mobilization
2. Regular Free Mass Workout –Promoting health and wellness
3. Taxpayer Education Program – Enhancing awareness on local taxes
4. LCR Mobile Registration – Bringing civil registration services closer to the people.
Benitez highlighted their investment in upgrading the Victorias Information Office. He also emphasized that the program ensures readiness for disasters, as it allows for the quick dissemination of information to their constituents.
Municipality of Lupon: "Kinahanglan Maligdong Project ICore"
Atty. Lovella Fe M. Tacder, head of the Municipality of Lupon's Information Office, shared their initiative called "Kinahanglan Maligdong Project ICore."
"The etymology of maligdong is the word ligdong, which means upright or virtuous," explained Tacder.
She recalled that establishing the Municipal Information Office (MIO) was one of her first tasks upon assuming her position.
"During our Municipal Peace and Order Council meeting, nabanggit po kasi ng 66IB Charlie Company na they are going to the 21 barangays sa Lupon."
Tacder shared that the MIO decided to join the army's activities in the barangays to build communication officers who could help bridge information gaps.
"Since kakagawa lang po ng aming MIO, sasama po kami sa kanila so that we may build communication officers."
She also explained that not all barangays in Lupon have strong internet connectivity, which led to the creation of the Information Committee to ensure that information reaches all 21 barangays.
Ordinances were passed to establish ICOM and BICOM systems. Currently, they are planning to expand their program by setting up iCampus to reach schools.
Province of Bataan: "Kuwentuhan Tayo Bataeño"
Bataan Governor Jose Enrique Garcia III introduced their program, "Kuwentuhan Tayo Bataeño," a Facebook live broadcast held every Wednesday to engage with constituents and inform them of the province's developments.
The program started in July 2022, during Garcia's first week as governor, and has since aired 82 episodes.
"On average, episodes reach 80,000 views, depending on the topic," Garcia shared.
"Imagine, siguro kung face-to-face ito, hindi ko magagawa ito, pero through technology, through social media, mas madali nating naaabot yung ating mga kababayan at mas mabilis din natin silang naaabot," he added.
The program also invites guests from local and national agencies, such as the DICT, DepEd, and DOLE, to share information and updates on programs and initiatives.
Celebrating Excellence
The recognition of these three LGUs highlights the importance of innovation and technology in fostering transparency, engagement, and inclusivity in public service. Through their programs, Victorias City, the Municipality of Lupon, and the Province of Bataan serve as models of excellence in public communication.
