Iloilo City made it again as one of the finalists for the prestigious Galing Pook Awards this year.

The City Government's Iloilo City Sports Academy: A Grassroots Sports Program for Ilonggo Youth will compete in the final panel presentation and interview of the country's best governance programs on 11 October in Metro Manila.

"We are deeply honored that we are once again included in the Galing Pook Awards. This is a testament of our hard work and the city's passion to make the government's services and programs truly inclusive and accessible for everyone," Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said.

ICSA provides free training to children aged five to 15 years old to encourage them to become active in sports activities, help them develop their potential, create a healthy lifestyle and keep them away from vices.

Treñas initiated the program under the supervision of Iloilo City Sports Development Division.

It provides opportunity for those who can't afford to enroll in the sports activity they want, helping them improve their skills, excel in their field of expertise, stay healthy and gain other benefits from physical activity.

Treñas said this endeavor also serves as a training ground for promising athletes who can be molded for national tournaments.

Galing Pook aims to give recognition to the best and most innovative local governance programs that exemplify citizens' participation and deliver positive results and impact.