THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said on Wednesday it launched an inclusivity program meant to reinforce its commitment to “protect the rights of vulnerable groups and empower them as active contributors to national development.”
The initiative is called Local Initiative in Governance and Social Protection (LINGAP), the DILG said.
“In line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for a more inclusive Philippines, LINGAP harmonizes the department’s programs that promote diversity, address the concerns of vulnerable sectors, and strengthen Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion or GEDSI at the local level,” the agency explained.
It emphasized that every child, senior citizen, single parent, woman, person with disability, and every member of the marginalized sector “has the right to dignity, respect, and social protection as an essential foundation for nation building.”
During the launch, DILG Assistant Secretary Ester Aldana underscored the importance of empowering vulnerable groups, saying; “Investing in the vulnerable strengthens the nation at large.”
As the Department’s umbrella initiative for diversity and social inclusion, LINGAP recognizes the role of local governments at the frontlines of promoting inclusive governance through sustained advocacy and community engagement.
The DILG also recognized the City Government of Carmona for its local initiative for persons with disability, which received international recognition during the Global Inclusion Awards in Paris. The Department highlighted that this achievement shows how Filipinos can lead global conversations on inclusion and social protection.
Carmona City Mayor Dahlia Loyola shared their KALINGYAKAP program, referring to Comprehensive Approach, Responsive Education, and Rehabilitation program, the Community-Based Inclusive Development initiative, and the Integrated Shelter and Support Services, as among the city’s best practices.
Stakeholders affirmed their commitment to inclusive governance and social protection efforts by signing the tree of commitment, symbolizing their unified support for the LINGAP program.
“With LINGAP, the government aims to reach more disadvantaged communities, strengthen support for marginalized sectors, and deliver essential social services to Filipinos who need them the most,” the DILG said.
