During the 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) presentation of validation results on September 10, the Local Government Unit of Isabela City, led by Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, received a strong recommendation for the prestigious SGLG award.
The City Government of Isabela has scored a perfect 10 out of 10 in the recent national audit – with no issues nor concerns in any of the governance areas – as conducted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) National Validators led by DILG III Regional Director Atty. Anthony Nuyda and LGOO VI/ADC Aldwin Reyes, bringing the local government closer to receiving the prestigious Seal of Local Good Governance (SGLG) for a second year in a row in 2024.
Accompanying the national SGLG Audit team were DILG IX Regional Director Paizal Abutasul, DILG IX Zamboanga City Director Ginagene Vano Uy and DILG IX LGMED LGOO V Mae Ann Tuden.
In order to attain the most-sought award, LGUs must pass all 10 areas of governance criteria which include the following: Financial Administration and Sustainability; Disaster Preparedness; Social Protection and Sensitivity; Health Compliance and Responsiveness; Sustainable Education; Business-Friendliness and Competitiveness; Safety, Peace and Order; Environmental Management; Tourism, Heritage Development, Culture and Arts, and Youth Development.
The validation process involved a comprehensive review of the city’s governance practices, including an in-depth document review, a preliminary assessment, and interviews with key stakeholders. The validators posed general questions that delved into critical aspects of governance such as strategic planning and implementation, monitoring and evaluation processes, and the effectiveness of stakeholder engagement and communication.
Mayor Turabin-Hataman expressed her gratitude and pride in the recognition, emphasizing that the recommendation is a testament to the collective effort and commitment of the entire local government. She acknowledged the contributions of all stakeholders, including city officials, employees, and the community, whose collaboration and support have been instrumental in reaching this level of excellence.
In 2023, Isabela City was the only City SGLG Awardee in the entire Region IX and this singular accomplishment achieved only through the relentless push of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
