NAGA CITY, Philippines – Mayor Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo has expressed her gratitude to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Camarines Sur for its sustained information and education campaign on the importance and benefits of converting Naga City into a Highly Urbanized City (HUC).
Speaking during the final coordinating conference on Tuesday, November 10, Robredo recognized the dedication of Comelec election supervisors and personnel in the province, who have helped prepare Nagueños for the November 21 plebiscite by explaining its purpose and encouraging residents to participate in the crucial vote.
The mayor had earlier extended a similar expression of gratitude to Atty. Maico Julia Jr., election officer, and the personnel of Comelec Naga for their assistance in the city’s HUC information campaign.
“We really appreciate their gesture that even if Naga City is not their area of jurisdiction, they have served our people with genuine care and dedication. Their commitment does not go unnoticed. We are very grateful,” Robredo said.
The conference was highlighted by the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) outlining the city government’s commitment to provide counterpart funds to the Comelec to help cover the expenses of conducting the plebiscite.
Robredo also acknowledged the Department of Education (DepEd) in Naga City, headed by Schools Division Superintendent Susan Collano, for facilitating the use of public schools as voting centers and mobilizing more than 700 public school teachers who will serve as volunteers and members of the plebiscite committees.
They will help safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
She likewise thanked the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Army, and other uniformed personnel who will man checkpoints and enforce the gun ban to ensure that voters can exercise their right to vote in peace and safety.
The mayor also recognized the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Naga City, headed by City Local Government Operations Officer Elmer Villanueva Jr., for accompanying city personnel in their barangay rounds to ensure that accurate information reaches households and that preparations are properly carried out on the ground.
The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), led by Engr. Edna Tejada, was also cited for its role in assisting voters and monitoring the electoral process, particularly the counting of votes.
Robredo described the November 21 plebiscite as a defining moment in Naga’s history, marking the culmination of years of growth and hard work while giving residents an opportunity to determine the city’s future direction.
She emphasized that the outcome would have implications extending beyond the tenure of any elected official, making every Nagueño’s participation essential.
“What we decide in this plebiscite will shape our city long after any term of office has ended. This is why everybody’s work in the barangay is very important,” she said.
The mayor thanked all participating agencies, organizations, and volunteers for making residents feel that their participation and welfare matter as the city approaches what she described as a historic decision. | via Jason B. Neola, CMO-Public Information Division head
