Bauko hailed among best performing LGUs
A SMALL town in Mountain Province has made its mark in the 2017 Cities & Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI).
Bauko bagged 2nd place in the national awards for government efficiency under the category for 3rd 6th class municipalities in the competition under the National Competitiveness Council Philippines (NCC).
Department of Trade and Industry - Cordillera regional director Myrna Pablo said this year is a milestone as it is the first time there is a national awardee from the region.
The highland town was lauded during the 4th Competitiveness Recognition Ceremony in Baguio City with representatives from the region cheering on.
Bauko Mayor Abraham Akilit lauded the efforts of the NCC to recognize efforts of small towns making the awards as a passion to achieve.
Akilit detailed programs of the town which centers on environment, watershed protection, livelihood skills development and infrastructure.
Pillars of the awards are anchored on economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure and resiliency.
The municipality of Baler bagged the top spot as the most com- MAYOR
petitive under the 3rd 6th class municipalities.
Mayor Nelianto Bihasa of Baler in his inspirational speech said competitiveness is attainable when the local government unit is transparent to the community it represents.
The town is the birthplace of former President Manuel Quezon and known as the surfing capital of the country.
Bihasa said the town is part of the typhoon belt but has proven to overcome the threats of natural disaster.
The chief executive said the goal is to increase investment in the surfing town and continue its vibrant tourism industry anchored on its surfing spots.