The Galing Pool Awards was launched on October 21, 1993 as a pioneering program that searches and recognizes innovative practices by local government units (LGUs). The awardees are chosen from a national search of local governance programs evaluated through a rigorous screening process based on (1) positive results and impact, (2) promotion of people's participation and empowerment, (3) innovation and adaptation, (4) resilience, (5) sustainability, and (6) efficiency of program service delivery and transferability.