President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called for stronger teamwork between national and local governments, saying that helping the people should go beyond politics.

In a “meet and greet” with newly elected local chief executives on Wednesday, President Marcos assured local government units (LGUs) of his administration’s full support for their programs and initiatives.

Sharing some details of the meeting, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro on Thursday said the President underscored the need for unity in governance, recognizing that politics should never taint service to the people.

“Muling binigyang katiyakan ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ang mga local government officials sa patuloy na suporta ng national government sa lahat ng mga programa ng lokal na pamahalaan — ano man ang kanilang political colors, dahil sa Pangulo, aksyon ang kailangan at ‘di pamumulitika,” Castro said in a press briefing.

Castro said President Marcos reminded the local leaders that the nation will stay on the right path when governance is anchored in cooperation and genuine love for the country.

“Ang nasabing pagtitipon ay nagpapatunay lamang na serbisyo sa taumbayan at kapakanan ng mga Pilipino ang pangunahing hangarin ng Pangulo,” Castro said.

The President specifically committed support to LGU programs focused on disaster preparedness, peace and order, and the digital transformation of local services.

The engagement with local officials is part of the Marcos administration’s aim to align national and regional efforts to ensure effective public service delivery. It also reflects the President’s ongoing commitment to a whole-of-government approach to address key issues and improve the lives of all Filipinos. | PND