Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla met with Gov. Gwen Garcia and mayors of the cities and municipalities in Cebu during a visit at the Capitol on February 5.
Sec. Remulla, who took on the post vacated by former Sec. Benjur Abalos Jr. in October last year, is a known champion of local governance, having served as Board Member, Vice Governor and Governor of the Province of Cavite prior to his appointment at the DILG.
This strong background in local governance guided him in his decisions and direction-setting, prompting him to embark on a series of meetings with Governors and mayors across the country to be able to listen to their concerns more.
“Tama si Governor Gwen. It is only the local government that is the key to national progress. If we put academics in charge of this country, nothing will happen. But if we put the local governments in charge, give them the autonomy, and the freedom to decide, then a lot of things can happen,” Sec. Remulla said.
Sec. Remulla also took time to engage with local executives present, answering their questions and addressing concerns related to the national agency’s priorities. He acknowledged the vital role that local government units (LGUs) play in national progress, reinforcing the message that empowering local governments is key to the country’s development.
Governor Gwen, whom Sec. Remulla recognized as the leading Governor in the country, has long advocated for the autonomy of local governments and shared her appreciation for Sec. Remulla’s perspective.
“You see, that’s the difference if we have a Secretary who understands local governance because he has experienced local governance,” Gov. Gwen said.
The meeting between Sec. Remulla, Governor Gwen, and the Cebu mayors shows the ongoing partnership between the national government and local leaders to meet the country’s needs and support local governments for the country’s progress. | JMT
