TACLOBAN CITY — The municipality of Tanauan, Leyte has passed the 2026 Regional Local Governance Champions (RLGC) validation of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), recognizing the local government’s performance in key areas of governance and public service.
Mayor Gina Merilo announced the achievement on Oct. 8 following the conduct of the regional validation in Tanauan, describing the result as a major milestone for her administration and the municipality.
“When I took office as your mayor, one of my highest personal goals and biggest dreams for our community was to earn the RLGC validation for good governance. Today, I am beyond proud to share that we passed!” Merilo said.
The RLGC assessment evaluates local government units based on 10 key governance areas, including financial administration and sustainability, disaster preparedness, social protection and sensitivity, health compliance and responsiveness, and sustainable education.
It also covers business-friendliness and competitiveness, safety and peace and order, environmental management, tourism and heritage development, culture and arts, and youth development.
Merilo attributed Tanauan’s successful validation to the collective efforts of local government employees, partner agencies, civil society organizations and residents.
“This achievement proves that when we lead with transparency, accountability, and genuine dedication, real progress follows,” she said.
The mayor thanked the LGU personnel, department and section heads, the DILG municipal office led by Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Cleo Palencia and her staff, civil society organizations, national government agencies and residents for their support.
“This is a victory for all of us. Onward to a better and brighter governed future!” Merilo said.
The RLGC validation is part of the DILG’s efforts to recognize local governments that demonstrate good governance, effective service delivery and compliance with national standards under the Bagong Pilipinas governance framework.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
