The Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) instituted by the Department of Interior and Local Government has become the "standard" measurement for local government units (LGUs) in which to measure their social, economic and administrative progress.
However, some officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) believe that environmental protection should also be included as a criteria for LGUs in receiving this prestigious award.
During the recent Kapihan sa DENR CALABARZON last December, Regional Executive Director Nilo Tamoria emphasized the significance of the initiative in driving LGUs toward better ecological management and accountability.
“The integration of environmental compliance into the SGLG reflects our collective commitment to sustainable governance. We are working closely with the DILG to ensure that LGUs adopt practices that protect and nurture the environment while fostering community development,” the official noted.
During the forum, DENR officials expressed their conviction that the inclusion of environmental compliance and stricter implementation of laws in the SGLG framework is a groundbreaking move that not only acknowledges LGUs’ efforts in governance but also reiterate their role in fostering sustainable development.
“We strongly believe that good local governance is not only about adhering to the Local Government Code. Good governance includes taking care of the environment. When an LGU is not capable of fulfilling its environmental responsibilities, it cannot truly claim to be practicing good governance,” Tamoria stressed.
He added: “Good governance is holistic—it is about addressing the needs of the present while securing the future. Without environmental responsibility, true progress is impossible.”
As the DENR and DILG finalize the inclusion of this new criterion, local leaders are urged to align their programs with national environmental goals, reinforcing their role in building disaster-resilient communities with efficient handling of sustainable resources.
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(With report from PIA)
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