BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA

On December 17, the municipality of Pugo, La Union, was honored at the 24th Gawad Kalasag Awarding Ceremony by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Region 1.

The municipality was recognized as a Fully Compliant Awardee for its exemplary disaster preparedness programs for 2024.

Under the leadership of Mayor Kurt Walter Martin, Pugo showcased its dedication to ensuring residents’ safety in times of calamity.

Among the initiatives recognized were the training and seminars conducted by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, as well as the swift response to disasters.

The Gawad Kalasag Seal is a prestigious award given to local governments excelling in disaster risk reduction and management.

Meanwhile, the local government of Pugo, led by Mayor Kurt Walter Martin, provided various forms of financial assistance to residents.

These included livelihood assistance grants for aspiring entrepreneurs, solo parent assistance payouts, and educational assistance for students.

Additionally, octogenarian assistance was given to senior citizens aged 80 and above.

Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the aid they received.

These programs continue to inspire the local government to further improve its services.