The provincial government of La Union recognized and awarded cash incentives to local government units (LGUs) for exemplary emergency response.

The top five LGUs recognized are San Fernando City, Naguilian, Bacnotan, Balaoan, and Burgos towns.

“The evaluation included a desk review of the submitted Project Summary Briefs and supporting documents, on-site validation, and a final deliberation,” according to the provincial government in a statement on Monday.

San Fernando City LGU, as the Gold Awardee, received PHP1 million worth of capacity-building initiatives, structural projects, or equipment; while Naguilian got PHP750,000 as Silver Awardee, and Bacnotan received PHP500,000 as Bronze Awardee.

“To further strengthen local capacities for disasters, Balaoan received the Basic Water Rescue Training Package, while Burgos received the High-Angle Search and Rescue Training Package,” the provincial government said.

The province also awarded Plaques of Appreciation to all participating LGUs in recognition of their valuable involvement and commitment to advancing disaster resilience across La Union.

It said the provincial government recognized LGUs with exemplary, sustainable, innovative, and ecologically adaptive practices in disaster risk reduction and management.

“It highlights programs and projects that effectively address local disaster risks, promote community participation, produce measurable results, and offer the potential for sustainability and replication in other communities,” it added. (PNA)