BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The city government under Mayor Benjamin Magalong has recently been recognized as a Silver Trailblazer Awardee under the Performance Governance System (PGS), affirming its sustained commitment to institutional excellence, innovation and responsive public service.
Conferred in partnership with the Institute for Solidarity in Asia, the recognition marks a significant milestone in the city’s governance journey, reflecting its successful implementation of the PGS—a strategic framework designed to translate long-term goals into measurable and sustainable reforms.
Since adopting the PGS, the city has steadily advanced through its governance milestones. It completed the development of its Transformation Plan in 2020, successfully passed the Initiation Stage in 2021, and has since progressed to the Compliance Stage, where city offices continue to strengthen the implementation of strategies aligned with Baguio’s vision of efficient and responsive governance.
As part of its efforts to institutionalize excellence, the city conducted the PGS Examination from August to November 2025 to assess employees’ understanding of the governance framework while reinforcing a culture of competence and accountability across the local bureaucracy.
Five offices achieved a 100 per cent passing rate among first-time examinees: the City Civil Registry Office, City Accounting Office, City Environment and Parks Management Office–Burnham, City Planning, Development, and Sustainability Office, and the City Library. Their achievement reflects a strong commitment to the principles and standards of the Performance Governance System.
Meanwhile, 16 offices were recognized for achieving a 100 per cent completion rate among examinees, demonstrating broad participation in the city’s governance improvement program.
These are the City Engineering Office, City Environment and Parks Management Office, Sangguniang Panlungsod, City Legal Office, City Human Resource Management Office, City Mayor’s Office, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, City Assessor’s Office, City Budget Office, City Social Welfare and Development Office, General Services Office, City Treasurer’s Office, City Health Services Office, City Buildings and Architecture Office, City Veterinary and Agriculture Office, and City Administrator’s Office.
Magalong said these accomplishments underscore the dedication of Baguio City’s workforce in advancing a culture of excellence and continuous improvement and added that the PGS will remain a key instrument in driving reforms, enhancing public service delivery and ensuring that the city’s long-term development goals are effectively implemented.
He also congratulated all participating offices for their commitment and contributions, noting that their achievements strengthen Baguio’s pursuit of innovative, transparent, and service-driven governance.-Gaby B. Keith
