Implementation of the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) and LGU Performance in the Municipality of Maramag Bukidnon: Basis for Sustainability Plan

This study examined the implementation of the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) and its relationship with local government unit (LGU) performance in the Municipality of Maramag, Bukidnon, as a basis for developing a Sustainability Plan. A quantitative, non-experimental, descriptive-correlational design was employed involving 208 LGU officials, department heads, and personnel selected through modified stratified sampling. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Results revealed a high level of SGLG implementation (M = 3.48, SD = 0.15), with environmental management receiving the highest assessment and financial administration the lowest. LGU performance was rated very high (M = 3.50, SD = 0.15), particularly in operational transparency, responsiveness to community needs, and institutional sustainability. No significant differences in SGLG implementation assessments were identified according to educational attainment, institutional position, or training participation. Furthermore, no significant relationship was established between SGLG implementation and LGU performance (r = −0.017, p > 0.05). The findings indicate that favorable governance implementation ratings were not significantly associated with perceived institutional performance. The study recommends strengthening financial accountability, service delivery, stakeholder participation, and institutionalizing the proposed Sustainability Plan. Its single-municipality scope and perception-based, non-experimental design limit generalizability and causal interpretation. The study contributes to evidence-based local governance planning and institutional sustainability, supporting SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).