Tacloban: President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Thursday pledged to reinforce barangay governance across the Philippines through the allocation of the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF). This commitment was made during the LGSF turnover event held at the Tacloban Convention Center in Eastern Visayas. The President assured that more funds would be allocated to barangays in 2027, contingent upon the effective utilization of this year's LGSF.
According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos, drawing from his experience as a former governor, emphasized the challenges faced by local governments due to limited resources and insufficient national support. He articulated a vision of a "Government of All," aiming for a collaborative government structure from the national to the barangay level to ensure no citizen is left behind.
The President spearheaded the 'Sa Eastern Visayas, Bawat Bayan Makikinabang' program in Tacloban, showcasing the government's dedication to fortifying local communities amid global challenges. As part of the initiative, he engaged with Presidential Scholars under the Socio-Civic Projects Fund, observed the implementation of the Bagong Pilipinas Rice Program, and led the distribution of the LGSF.
Each of the 4,390 barangays in the region received PHP200,000, with half allocated to scholars and the remaining PHP100,000 designated for immediate barangay needs. Ariel Rex Lledo, barangay chairman of Barangay 109-A, mentioned plans to utilize the funds for purchasing a motorcycle to aid village watchmen in patrol operations.
Matag-ob, Leyte Mayor Bernie Tacoy recognized the funds as a testament to the national government's acknowledgment of community needs. He expressed gratitude for the financial assistance, which will enable continued service to the people of his 4th class town comprising 21 barangays.
Eastern Samar Governor Ralph Vincent Evardone highlighted the historic significance of the turnover, noting the direct support from the national government to barangays. He urged barangays to manage the funds effectively to ensure continued support in the future and pledged provincial government assistance to ensure proper fund utilization.
