The Department of the Interior and Local Government – National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) held its first Regional Team Conference (RTC) for the year on January 28, 2025, at Ardenhills Suites, Quezon City.

Attended by DILG-NCR executives composed of the Regional Director, Assistant Regional Director, City Directors, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer (MLGOO), and Chiefs of the Regional Office Operating Units, the RTC is conducted regularly as an avenue for the top management to discuss the priority thrusts of the Department, review strategies for program execution, as well as address updates and concerns on the implementation of various programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) of the Regional and Field Offices.

In her opening remarks, Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III, expressed her gratitude to the regional and operating units for their outstanding contributions in 2024, which resulted in significant achievements for the region. 

“Another year of accolades would not be possible without your unwavering commitment, proactive leadership, and dedication. Together, we aim to sustain these accomplishments in 2025,” RD Agustin said.

A key highlight of the conference was the presence of Undersecretary Marlo L. Iringan, Undersecretary for Local Government, who provided valuable guidance on the strategic directions of the Department, aligned with the directives of DILG Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla as well as the DILG-wide Strategic Plan for 2023-2028.

In his message, Undersecretary Iringan underscored the immense responsibilities and opportunities that lie ahead for the DILG in 2025, emphasizing the department’s pivotal role, particularly in preparation for the upcoming national and local elections He also lauded DILG-NCR’s remarkable achievement in the 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), with 14 out of 17 NCR LGUs (82.35%) receiving this prestigious recognition—the highest passing rate nationwide. 

“This accomplishment reflects the collective dedication and excellence within DILG-NCR. With your high level of competency, I have full confidence that we will continue to meet and exceed expectations in the year ahead,” Undersecretary Iringan remarked.

The conference also centered on the presentation of the indicative DILG-NCR Annual Operations Plan and Budget (AOPB) for FY 2025, PPA updates and reminders from the Regional Office Operating Units, and other pressing issues and concerns raised by the participants.

Assistant Regional Director Atty. Ana Lyn. R. Baltazar-Cortez, CESO IV, facilitated the open forum of the meeting while the Division Chiefs and other key focal persons responded to the issues and concerns raised by the City Directors and MLGOO.

The conference concluded with a review of actionable items to ensure that the deliverables committed for the year will be fully accomplished.