Baguio City has taken a major step toward aligning local governance with global sustainability goals through the launch of its first Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Voluntary Local Review (VLR) on June 10, 2025, reports the Philippine Information Agency.

The initiative aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the city’s SDG implementation while fostering cross-sectoral collaboration and enabling evidence-based tracking of progress.

“This VLR reflects the voices and hopes of the people and it is a reflection of what we value, what we’re working toward, and what kind of future we are willing to build together. Our goal is clear: by 2043, Baguio must be a livable, inclusive, and creative city – a place where no one is left behind and everyone has a fair shot at a better life,” said Mayor Benjamin Magalong during the launch.

United Nations Development Program (UNDP) Resident Representative to the Philippines Dr. Selva Ramachandran, who attended the event, emphasized that localizing the SDGs is key to addressing community-specific challenges and opportunities. He also underscored the role of partnerships across local governments, civil society, and the private sector in driving progress.

“This is not just reporting; it is an opportunity,” said City Planning and Development Coordinator Architect Donna R. Tabangin. “A chance to localize the SDGs to amplify the voices of Baguio’s residents and align development with both the Philippines’ national agenda and the global aspirations of the 2030 agenda.”

The city’s VLR process focuses on nine priority goals: Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), and Climate Action (SDG 13).

These goals were selected based on stakeholder consultations and an analysis of Baguio’s local development context. The VLR report also highlighted progress in sustainable urban development and climate action, while identifying areas requiring accelerated interventions.

The initiative is anchored on the city’s long-term vision, *Baguio 2043: A Livable, Inclusive, and Creative City*, and was formally launched in the presence of representatives from government agencies, barangays, academe, civil society, youth groups, and other sectors.

What do you think about Baguio’s approach to localizing the SDGs? Join the conversation and share how your community is aligning with sustainability goals.

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