The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) recognized outstanding local government units (LGUs) in Central Luzon for exemplary achievements in environmental management.

DILG Regional Director Anthony Nuyda praised the winners, saying, “Pagmaya 2024: Pagkilala sa mga Natatanging Pamahalaang Lokal sa Larangan ng Kalinisan at Kapayapaan” reflects a collective respect for barangays and LGUs committed to cleaner, safer communities.

The event featured awards in three categories. In the Fisheries Compliance Assessment (FishCA), coastal LGUs were recognized for protecting municipal waters and meeting Fisheries Code standards. Recipients of PHP 200,000 each included Macabebe and Sasmuan in Pampanga, and Balanga City and Samal in Bataan.

Under the Manila Bayani Awards and Incentives, which assess compliance with Manila Bay cleanup and waste management laws, Guiguinto, Bulacan; Floridablanca, Pampanga; and Doña Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan took top places in the municipal category. For cities, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija won first place, with San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, and Mabalacat City, Pampanga as runners-up. First-place winners received PHP 300,000, second place PHP 200,000, and third place PHP 100,000.

In the Barangay Environmental Compliance Audit (BECA), Barangay Babo Sacan in Porac led the municipal category, with Barangays San Antonio, Bagac and Bulihan, Plaridel placing second and third, respectively. In the city category, Barangay Pagas, Cabanatuan City won first place, with Barangays Kaypian, San Jose del Monte, and Lote Pto. Rivas, Balanga City as runners-up. First, second, and third place winners received PHP 150,000, PHP 100,000, and PHP 80,000, respectively.

Five other LGUs received cash incentives for strong nominations, including barangays Pesa, Bongabon; Matayumtayum, La Paz; Lourdes Sur East, Angeles City; Malpitic, City of San Fernando; and San Jose, Tarlac City. The BECA awards honor barangays excelling in waste management, community gardens, and maintaining public awareness on cleanliness.

DILG’s Bureau of Local Government Supervision Director Debbie Torres emphasized that environmental management is key to building healthy and safe communities.