The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) turned over close to P34 million in incentive funds to the Negros Occidental provincial government, 12 cities and six towns who are 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance passers at rites held at the Social Hall of the provincial Capitol in Bacolod City on Friday, March 7.
The Negros Occidental provincial government received P3 million while the 12 cities received P2 million each and the six towns were given P1,153,000 each, DILG Provincial Director Teodora Sumagaysay said on Sunday.
The 12 cities that are 2024 SGLG passers are Bacolod, Bago, Cadiz, Escalante, Himamaylan, La Carlota, Sagay, San Carlos, Silay, Sipalay, Talisay, and Victorias.
The six towns are Enrique B. Magalona, Hinigaran, Ilog, Isabela, La Castellana and Manapla.
Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, in his speech, said the turnover of checks under SGLG Incentive Fund is not just a celebration of achievements but also an affirmation of dedication to transparent, accountable, and effective governance.
“This incentive fund is not just a financial boost – it is an investment in the future of our communities. I trust that each LGU will maximize these resources to implement priority projects that uplift the lives of our people,” he said.
Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez (3rd from left) receiving the incentive fund of Victorias City.*Richard Malihan photo
Victorias City has proven its unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and sound financial management by passing the 2024 Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH) standards, a statement from the city government also said.
This recognition highlights the city’s exceptional governance and adherence to fiscal responsibility, as it met all the criteria set by the DILG, it added.*