DILG Cebu Province Issues Clarification on Viral Vice Mayor Awards
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Cebu Province has officially distanced itself from a viral social media post that named the Top 10 Best Performing Municipal Vice Mayors of Cebu for 2025. In a statement released on January 28, 2026, the department categorically denied any involvement with the online graphic, which has been circulating widely on platforms like Facebook.
DILG Disowns Unofficial Recognition
The DILG emphasized that while it conducts regular performance evaluations of local officials, this specific ranking did not originate from their office. The Department clarifies that it is not associated with, does not endorse, and categorically disclaims any involvement in other awards... that purport to be linked to the DILG, the statement read. This move aims to prevent public confusion and ensure that only officially sanctioned recognitions carry the weight of government authority.
Official Awards vs. Private Surveys
To help citizens distinguish between legitimate government recognition and private initiatives, the DILG listed the only 12 official awards it grants based on rigorous good governance standards. These include:
- Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG)
- Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH)
- Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) Audit
- Peace and Order Council (POC) Audit
- Local Legislative Award (LLA)
- Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance (SCFLG)
- LCPC, LCAT-VAWC, and Subaybayan Awards
- SGLG for Barangays (SGLGB)
- Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Award (LTIA)
- Bansiwag Awards for LGUs
The department stressed that any awards outside this list are not endorsed by the DILG and should be viewed with scrutiny.
Origins of the Viral Post
The viral recognition reportedly came from a private organization called Transparency Good Governance and Accountability Advocates. According to the group, their Boses ng Bayan survey involved 6,000 respondents and assessed vice mayors based on their legislative work and community service contributions. Some local officials, such as Argao Vice Mayor Orvi Ortega, expressed surprise and appreciation for being included in the list.
Public Advisory and Next Steps
Despite the positive reactions from some vice mayors, the DILG is urging the public to exercise caution. The department advised citizens to carefully examine the credibility, mandate, and track record of any group issuing awards. To address potential misinformation, the DILG Cebu Province has forwarded the matter to its national office for further guidance, ensuring that the public is not misled by unofficial recognitions. This incident highlights the importance of verifying sources in an era where online content can quickly gain traction without official backing.
