Gov. Ann Hofer Advances to National Awards Stage as Zamboanga Sibugay Tops Governance Survey

Daphne Santuyo

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay — Zamboanga Sibugay continues to gain recognition for excellence in governance as it not only topped the latest regional survey on public trust and performance, but also secured a prestigious national awards berth for its provincial leadership.

The province emerged as the top-performing in the Zamboanga Peninsula in the latest “Boses ng Bayan” Governance Survey conducted by RPMD Foundation Inc., with Governor Dulce Ann Hofer leading the rankings. She recorded an impressive 83.6 percent Index of Governance (IOG), supported by an 83.5 percent trust rating and an 83.7 percent performance rating.

The strong showing reflects sustained public confidence in the provincial government, with observers noting that the close alignment between trust and performance scores indicates that constituents are experiencing real, measurable benefits from government programs and services.

Further elevating the province’s standing, Governor Hofer has also advanced to the national level of the 2026 Gawad Lingkod Bayani under the Gawad Lingkod Bayan ng Pangulo category, following a rigorous regional evaluation conducted by the Civil Service Commission.

She stands as the only nominee in the region to successfully pass the regional assessment in her category, earning a place among the country’s most outstanding public servants to be evaluated at the national level.

The Gawad Lingkod Bayani is among the highest honors bestowed on government officials and employees in the Philippines, recognizing exemplary performance, integrity, and commitment to public service. Final evaluation will be conducted by the National Committees on Awards, composed of government officials appointed by the President, members of the Civil Service Commission, heads of constitutional bodies, and distinguished private citizens.

The dual recognition from both an independent governance survey and a national-level awards program highlights Zamboanga Sibugay’s growing reputation as a province driven by results, accountability, and responsive leadership.

As the province continues its development trajectory, these milestones affirm that strong governance, public trust, and measurable performance remain central to its progress, positioning Zamboanga Sibugay as a leading example of effective local governance in the region.