For the third consecutive year, the Provincial Government of Bataan (PGB) has been recognized at the prestigious Galing Pook Awards, with the Bahay Wika program of the Provincial Tourism Office earning a spot among the Top Ten Outstanding Local Governance Programs.



The award was presented by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. together with Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla Jr and Galing Pook Foundation Chairperson Mel Sarmiento on October 25 at Malacañang to Governor Jose Enrique “Joet” Garcia, OIC Provincial Tourism Officer Danica Lolita Tigas, and Ayta Magbukun Elder Rebecca Reyes.

The Bahay Wika program is an initiative focused on preserving and revitalizing the Ayta Magbukun language and culture in Barangay Bangkal in Abucay. This effort exemplifies PGB’s commitment to inclusive governance and heritage conservation, marking it as a model for local government programs nationwide.



Also recognized at this year’s Galing Pook Awards is the City Government of Balanga under the leadership by Mayor Francis Garcia, for its Balanga Community-Based Eco-tourism Zone project, which promotes sustainable tourism through community involvement.

Bataan’s Galing Pook Award journey began in 2022 with the recognition of its Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Program, implemented by the Public and Private Partnership and Investment Center (PPPIC). In 2023, the province was again awarded for the 1Bataan Seal of Healthy Barangay, an incentive-based program of the Provincial Health Office aimed at promoting public health and wellness at the community level.

The 2024 Galing Pook Awards received 147 applications showcasing various innovative programs and initiatives from across the country. Established in 1993, the Galing Pook Foundation, honors outstanding local government programs that serve as models for effective governance and community impact.

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