By Patricia Bermudez
STA. ROSA CITY, Laguna —The city government of Santa Rosa has begun its voluntary review of the implementation of local initiatives aligned with the country’s sustainable development goals (SDGs).
These goals are aligned with global plans on ending poverty, initiating climate action, and ensuring peace and prosperity by 2030.
Last September 18, the city government launched its first Voluntary Local Review (VLR) to measure the city’s progress, commitments, and strategies in implementing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
By design, the VLR is a key monitoring tool for the implementation of the UN SDGs in coming up with a public report on the progress of local and regional governments, which is often shared through global venues, including the UN’s High-Level Political Forum.
Mayor Arlene Arcillas underscored that the Santa Rosa VLR is key in their leadership agenda as an instrument of participatory governance.
“This achievement reflects our commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, a shared vision of a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for every Santa Rosa family.”
The local chief executive further emphasized the importance of aligning policies with the global sustainability agenda towards a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for their citizens.
“By aligning the SDGs with our local plans and programs, we show that development is not just about economic growth but also about fairness, responsibility, and caring for future generations.”
Sta. Rosa LGU’s efforts to integrate the UN SDGs in their governance agenda drew praise from the international community.
In a video message, Noriaki Yockouchi, International Affairs Bureau director of Yokohama City, Japan, lauded the inclusivity efforts in the city’s development agenda.
“We are particularly impressed with Santa Rosa’s inclusive approach to stakeholder engagement. This review will be a catalyst for its SDG efforts.”
Meanwhile, Hiroshi Ono, Executive Director of the Institute for Global Environment Strategies, pledged their support in the city’s bid towards sustainable governance.
“This VLR charts an inspiring path for modern cities and communities. We are committed to supporting Santa Rosa [City] as it accelerates its SDG implementation.”
The Santa Rosa VLR is part of the growing number of cities worldwide that are localizing the UN SDGs.
It focuses on 10 prioritized SDGs that align with their current development needs and strategic vision, namely: poverty alleviation, zero-hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action; peace, justice, and strong institutions, and; partnership for the sustainable development goals.
