As political noise flares in the country, a substantial number of governors, city mayors, and municipal chiefs throughout the Philippines gathered at Malacañang Palace on Monday for the release of the P57.87-billion Local Government Support Fund–Financial Assistance to Local Government Units (LGSF-FA to LGUs).

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said the released LGSF fund is the highest-ever allocation for the program.

“And this is just a part of the P1.393-trillion allocation for LGUs. This affirms the President’s faith in your ability to identify local needs and implement with dispatch,” he said during his speech.

Recto emphasized that the release of the funds was not meant to divide LGUs or take sides amid Vice President Sara Duterte’s announcement that she will run for president in the 2028 elections.

“In the middle of the political noise, let’s be clear on why we’re here: service, work, delivery. Amid the loud distractions, let us rise above the din and the division, to work as one for the people, who expect government agencies to perform in sync—not separate, not national or local only, but united,” he said.

“Today, we are forging stronger cooperation between the national and local governments—so that national priorities are matched with, and mobilized for, local realities. Projects and programs molded by actual knowledge of ground-level conditions are always better than those solely crafted and handed down from the heights of power,” he stressed.

Recto added that LGUs are not remote detachments of governance, as they are the frontlines of service.

“If such is the case, then all resources must be rushed to the front, to the ground where the real fight is fought, and not trickle down to them. LGUs should not be passive recipients of national projects but must be active partners in identifying and implementing them. This is why our President gave a clear directive: release the LGSF on time, so LGUs can act on time and deliver benefits to our people faster,” he explained.

He said the LGSF is anchored on the theme ‘Bawat Bayan Makikinabang’: “Not some. Not a few. But every town. Every city. Every province.”

Manifesto of support

Minutes after the LGSF release was announced, ULAP National President and Quirino Governor Dakila Cua handed over their manifesto of support to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“This manifesto reflects the unity and fortified commitment of our local government leaders across the country in advancing the goals of the LGSF program. It’s a clear affirmation that national and local governments are working hand-in-hand to deliver responsive, inclusive, and people-centered governance,” the manifesto, read by the masters of ceremonies, said.

“And we apply the same in practice. Ayon nga sa Pangulo: Dapat walang pulitika. Walang pinipiling kulay. Because the needs of the people have no party. And the response to those needs should have no color,” according to Recto.