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Local Government Units Shine at the Digital Democracy Awards

U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, MBC Chairman Edgar Chua, and DICT Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue present the Digital Democracy Champion award to fourteen (14) city LGUs for their exceptional implementation of Digital Democracy initiatives.

[Manila, November 15, 2024] – The first-ever Digital Democracy Awards brought together distinguished local government leaders, private sector representatives, and development partners at the Hilton Manila on November 15, 2024, to celebrate the transformative power of digital governance. Hosted by Makati Business Club (MBC), in partnership with USAID and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), the event recognized outstanding local government initiatives that foster innovation, transparency, and citizen participation through technology.

Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson graced the occasion, delivering inspiring messages on the importance of collaboration and participatory governance in shaping a more inclusive democracy.

FROM LEFT: DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla and U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson graced the first Digital Democracy Awards on November 15, 2024.

The awards honored six local government units (LGUs) in key categories for their exemplary contributions to digital democracy:

  • People’s Participation Award: Quezon City for their ‘Usapang QC’ initiative, which bridged communication gaps and engaged over 430,000 residents.
  • Citizen-Led Policy Award: Naga City for translating citizen feedback into impactful policies, exemplifying the power of participatory governance.
  • Leadership Award: Batangas City Mayor Beverley Rose Dimacuha, for her exceptional vision and hands-on leadership in advancing digital initiatives.
  • Outstanding Public Communication Award: Tagbilaran City for their innovative and creative communication strategies, including social media campaigns and community engagement efforts.
  • Data Stewardship Award: Muntinlupa City for their responsible handling of citizen data and dedication to advancing smart city initiatives.
  • Digital Trailblazer Award: Isabela City, Basilan for their groundbreaking ‘IsaTV’ program, which brought educational content to a wider audience and redefined digital accessibility.

In addition to these winners, 14 LGUs were recognized as Digital Democracy Champions for their dedication to advancing citizen participation and transparency in governance. These city LGUs include: 1) Cagayan de Oro City, 2) Victorias City, 3) Himamaylan City, 4) Iligan City, 5) Quezon City, 6) Isabela City, Basilan, 7) Masbate City, 8) Tagbilaran City, 9) Batangas City, 10) Muntinlupa City, 11) Naga City, 12) San Fernando City, La Union, 13) Tagum City, 14) Zamboanga City.

The judging panel included DICT Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue, Bill Luz of Livable Cities Philippines, and representatives from the DILG, who carefully reviewed and evaluated the entries.

The Digital Democracy Awards marked a significant milestone in promoting technology-driven governance and empowering local governments to serve their communities better. It served as a platform to showcase how collaboration, innovation, and citizen engagement are driving the evolution of governance in the Philippines.

For more information on the Digital Democracy Awards and the winning initiatives, visit mbc.com.ph/digital-democracy/

 
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