Mati City in Davao Oriental announced Tuesday its receipt of two prestigious awards: the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Manila and the Gawad Kalasag Seal for its Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO) in Davao City.

Mayor Michelle Rabat said the SGLG, considered the “gold standard” in local governance, highlights Mati’s exemplary performance in financial administration, disaster preparedness, social protection, peace and order, business friendliness, environmental management, and cultural tourism promotion.

“This third SGLG award is proof of Mati’s dedication to excellence and good governance. This is for every Matinian who continues to inspire us to work harder and serve better,” Rabat said in a statement.

Mati was among 96 cities recognized out of 714 awardees nationwide during the ceremony on Monday.

The city was also featured at the 2024 SGLG Incentive Fund National Expo for its Farmers’ Bagsakan Trading and Marketing Center, an initiative aimed at centralizing marketing for farmers, boosting productivity, and ensuring fair prices.

“This project underscores our commitment to fostering economic growth while empowering the agricultural sector, a cornerstone of Mati’s economy,” Rabat added.

On the same day, Mati’s City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) was recognized as Beyond Compliant at the Gawad Kalasag Seal awards, marking its third consecutive year of distinction from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

The Gawad Kalasag Seal honors local government units for exceptional efforts in disaster risk reduction and management, focusing on proactive planning, effective emergency response, and community involvement.

Mati’s CDRRMO achieved full compliance in 2022, was elevated to Beyond Compliance in 2023, and maintained that status in 2024. (PNA)