On Good Governance: NDMU and DILG-12 Partner to Unravel the Secret to Local Success

In a mission to champion good governance, Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 12 have launched a strategic research partnership. Their joint endeavor seeks to understand how local government units (LGUs) can consistently maintain the prestigious Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), transforming a one-time achievement into a model of sustained excellence.

For years, the SGLG has served as a benchmark of excellence, recognizing LGUs that demonstrate integrity and good performance across multiple governance areas. But for a select group of LGUs in SOCCSKSARGEN, the award has become a consistent badge of honor. To understand the how and why behind this sustained success, NDMU's research team, led by Mrs. Sheila B. Roma, the Project team leader and Dr. Wilter C. Friales, the lead researcher, commissioned by DILG-12, has embarked on a comprehensive study.

The research project, led by NDMU, is a deep dive into the experiences of two cities—Kidapawan and Tacurong City—and four municipalities—Bagumbayan, Columbio, Malungon, Tupi, and Maasim. These LGUs are not just recipients; they are consistent awardees, representing a model of excellence in local governance.

Unpacking the SGLG's Impact

The initial phase of the research focuses on the tangible and intangible benefits that these LGUs have reaped from the SGLG. What are the gains that transform a local government's operations after earning the seal? Beyond the financial incentives, the study aims to uncover improvements in service delivery, heightened public trust, and a more engaged citizenry. However, the seal is not a destination but a continuous journey. A critical component of the study will address the inevitable challenges of maintaining the SGLG status.

The Keys to Sustainability

The heart of the NDMU-DILG partnership lies in understanding resilience and sustainability. How do these LGUs, faced with continuous challenges, cope with the issues emerged. The study will explore their innovative strategies, leadership models, and internal systems that enable them to adapt and overcome obstacles. A key element of this resilience is the active role of citizens. Good governance is a shared responsibility, and the research will investigate how the stakeholders of the LGUs take part on sustaining the Seal of Good Local Governance for consecutive years.

Towards a Model for Sustained Excellence

The culmination of the project is the development of a unique sustainability model. Through a rigorous analysis of data gathered from interviews with local officials, community leaders, and ordinary citizens, the study aims to develop a sustainability model to describe how the Seal of Good Local Governance has been sustained by the Local Government Units which have been consistent awardees in Region 12. This model will not just be a theoretical framework; it will be a practical guide for other LGUs aspiring to achieve and sustain excellence. It will provide a clear, evidence-based roadmap on how to build a governance system that is not only good but consistently great, a testament to the power of collaboration and commitment to public service.

This joint research between NDMU and DILG-12 is more than just an academic exercise. It is a commitment to a shared future where every LGU in the region has the tools and knowledge to become a champion of good governance, with the SGLG serving as both a recognition of past success and a beacon for future progress.