By Kathlene Joyce Ramones   SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union,Philippines — The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) attained national recognition on December 29, 2025, when the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) named the province as the first Volunteerism Local Learning Hub (VLLH) in the Philippines. The designation honors La Union’s work in institutionalizing volunteerism within local governance. As a VLLH, the province will guide other local government units (LGUs) by sharing its policies and practices through 2028. The recognition underscores La Union’s role in advancing active citizenship and merging volunteerism with development planning. Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega described volunteerism as a way to share skills for community benefit. “This provides an avenue for people to contribute their talents and expertise for public service,” Ortega said. He added that volunteer-led learning should directly support local development. “When more people are involved, the government gains a clearer understanding of how initiatives are received and how they affect communities,” he stated. PNVSCA Executive Director Donald James Gawe, meanwhile, congratulated the provincial government, noting that the designation validates La Union’s steady approach. “As a Volunteerism Local Learning Hub, La Union assumes a role in the national volunteerism ecosystem by serving as a center for learning and capacity building,” Gawe remarked. He noted that effective volunteer management will now be documented and shared. With the designation active, La Union aims to bolster its programs and promote participatory governance nationwide. (CCMT/KJCR, PIA La Union)        

​CAMP DIEGO SILANG, La Union,Philippines —In a major blow to the illegal pyrotechnics trade, the Regional Civil Security Unit 1 (RCSU1), headed by PCol Cherry Fajardo, reported significant operational accomplishments following an intensive regional campaign to ensure a safe New Year celebration across the Ilocos Region. With the untiring dedication and commitment, the RCSU1 implemented a massive crackdown against illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices (FCPDs) through their 868 successful operations focused on the manufacture, sale, and distribution of prohibited FCPDs, which resulted in the arrest of five persons who allegedly violated Republic Act 7183, or an Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution, and Use of Firecrackers and other Pyrotechnic Devices. A total of  3,566 illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices with an estimated market value of P108,183..00 were confiscated in the said operations. Three (6) cases were filed in court, while one (1) is for filing and two (2) under investigation. ​The RCSU1 leadership emphasized that these operations, which started on December 9-31, 2025, were critical in mitigating firecracker-related injuries and preventing fire incidents during the peak of the revelry. Fajardo added that all the initiatives undertaken by RCSU1 are in accordance with the directive of PBGen Ross C Alvarado, Acting Director of the PNP-Civil Security Group, and in response to the guidance of Acting Chief PNP PLTGEN JOSE MELENCIO C NARTATEZ JR. ​”Our priority is the safety of every citizen in Region 1. These 865 operations demonstrate our commitment to strictly implementing the law and continuously regulating the industry and removing dangerous, non-compliant products from our markets,” Fajardo added. ​All seized items are currently being processed for proper disposal in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to prevent accidental discharge. RCSU1 continues to monitor retail outlets and online marketplaces for any residual illegal sales following the just-concluded revelry celebration. ​Meanwhile, the RCSU1 encouraged the public to report any continued sale of illegal firecrackers to local police stations or through the RCSU1 hotlines (smart: +639985643602 / globe:  +639177758928)  to maintain the safety and security of the community.  

SAN CARLOS CITY, Pangasinan, Philippines – A 26-year-old illegal fireworks seller was nabbed in an entrapment operation conducted by personnel of the Regional Civil Security Unit-1, led by PCol. Cherry Fajardo in San Carlos City, Pangasinan, on December 30. The arrested individual was identified as Jefferson Vinoya Torio, 26, a resident of Barangay Malacañang, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, who is now facing charges for violation of Section 3 of RA 7183 (An Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution, and Use of Fireworks and Other Pyrotechnic Devices), in conjunction with Section 6 of RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012). The operatives recovered the boodle money used in the operation, while 50 pieces of kwitis and 33 pieces of Yakult Taas were confiscated from the suspect. According to Fajardo, RCSU1 continues to monitor the illegal fireworks as the New Year approaches in response to the directive of Acting Chief PNP PLtGen Jose Melencio C Nartatez, Jr., which was acted upon by PBGen. Ross C Alvarado, Acting Director of the PNP-Civil Security Group.            

  LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, Philippines – The Provincial Government of Pangasinan awarded a total of P6.97 million in financial assistance to 702 Pangasinan State University (PSU) Provincial Scholars under the Pangasinan Provincial Scholarship Program for Academic Year 2024 – 2025, during an awarding ceremony held at the NRSCC Gym on December 17, 2025. Each scholar received 10,000 pesos each, benefitting students from various PSU campuses across the province, including Alaminos City, Asingan, Bayambang, Binmaley, Infanta, Lingayen, San Carlos City, Sta. Maria, and Urdaneta City. A highlight of the program was the recognition of Ms. Angelica Mae O. Fernandez of Barangay Sampaloc, Bolinao, the first Provincial Scholar in the 18-year history of the program to graduate as Summa Cum Laude. Fernandez earned her degree in Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from PSU Lingayen, with a General Weighted Average of 1.20. “Napakalaking tulong po para sa akin ang scholarship na ito, lalo na po bilang isang estudyanteng may limitadong kakayahang pinansyal. Dahil dito, natupad ko po ang aking pangarap na makapagtapos ng kolehiyo. Maraming salamat po, Gov.,” Fernandez said. The awarding also recognized other outstanding academic achievers, including 44 Magna Cum Laude, 45 Cum Laude, and 171 graduates with Academic Distinction, reflecting the strong academic performance of provincial scholars across PSU campuses. Under the leadership of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan continues to champion accessible and inclusive education, affirming its commitment to empowering the youth and investing in the future of the province. (Rich Majin, Photo by: Ervin Alcantara | PIMRO)  

LA UNION Philippines — Under the flow of the historic first, La Union placed youth leadership at the forefront, as Sangguniang Kabataan of the Municipality of Sudipen Xyra Janell Manabeng was crowned the first-ever Mutia ti Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) 2025, marking a milestone in La Union’s push to elevate youth leadership beyond the halls of public service. Held at the Speaker Pro Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center on December 20, 2025, the pageant brought together 20 young women leaders from across La Union, each representing their respective Sangguniang Kabataan, as they showcased grace, confidence, and platforms anchored on service and community development. Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega opened the event, highlighting the provincial government’s commitment to empowering youth leaders and fostering a culture of service rooted in purpose and empowerment. The night was further enlivened by guest performances from Jeric Gonzalez, Jameson Blake, and K-pop star Chanty, who serenaded the contestants and entertained the crowd with electrifying performances. The pageant’s top finalists captivated the audience with their talent, poise, and commitment to advocacy. Emerging victorious, Prinsesa Ti Panagkaysa SK Caba Sofia Nathalie De Leon claimed the first runner-up title, earning recognition for Miss Photogenic. Prinsesa Ti Panag-ayat SK Bacnotan Angela Mañalac was named second runner-up, Prinsesa Ti Panagsirbi SK Bangar Genoa Sabado secured third runner-up with accolades for Unity Torchbearer Award, while Prinsesa Ti Panagdur-as SK San Gabriel Althea Fe Basco was awarded as fourth runner-up. Throughout the competition, contestants dazzled the audience in three distinct segments: the high-energy activewear round, the stylish and versatile denim wear showcase, and the elegant evening gown presentation, each segment highlighting confidence, grace, and the unique personalities of La Union’s young women leaders. In between, the candidates also presented their advocacies through AVPs, giving the audience insight into their platforms for community service and development. The question-and-answer portion further tested their wit, confidence, and ability to articulate their vision for youth leadership in La Union. In every way, guided in the spirit of #LaUnionAgkaysa, the Mutia Ti Sangguniang Kabataan 2025 fortifies how unity thrives in diversity, creating platforms that inspire meaningful change and elevate community service to new heights.

 The Regional Civil Security Unit-1 (RCSU1) headed by PCol. Cherry Fajardo, personally inspecting retailers of fireworks throughout Region 1 (Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan) to ensure that no illegal fireworks are being sold as the holiday and New Year season approaches. The monitoring of illegal fireworks was strictly ordered by Acting Chief PNP PLtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., through the implementation of the Civil Security Group led by BGen. Ross Alvarado, to safeguard the security of every citizen.  

CAMP DIEGO SILANG, La Union, Philippines  —In line with the PNP’s stern commitment to crack down on illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnics,  the Regional Civil Security Unit 1 (RCSU1) has intensified its campaign against the illegal manufacture and sale of prohibited firecrackers across the region to ensure the safety of the community during the holiday revelries. PCol. Cherry Fajardo, Chief, RCSU1, said her command has been conducting a massive campaign against illegal firecrackers and started the inspection and monitoring of Firecrackers and Pyrotechnic Devices (FCPDs) in the region since December 9 in response to the guidance of the Acting Chief PNP LtGen.Jose Melencio C. Nartatez,Jr. “Our monitoring teams and combined operatives are tracking down all FCPD outlets across Region 1 to ensure that only authorized and safe products reach the community. Under my leadership, we will make every effort to halt the spread of illegal, prohibited, and dangerous firecrackers, ensuring the community’s safety,” Fajardo stated. The RCSU1’s initiative was launched in lieu of the directive of PBGen. Ross C. Alvarado, Acting Director of the PNP- Civil Security Group to strictly implement inspections and masdive campaign against FCPDs in respective area of responsibility. Since the launching of the campaign, the RCSU1, in partnership with other police units, has conducted 21 police operations, resulting in the arrest of three violators and the confiscation of 612 prohibited firecrackers and improvised devices with an estimated value of P23,680.00. Meanwhile, on December 16, a joint operation of RCSU1 and Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 1 (RACU1) led by PCol Fajardo successfully entrapped a suspect for violation of Section 3 of the Republic Act 7183 in relation to Section 6 of R.A. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, in Candon City, Ilocos Sur. The suspect was identified as a 26-year-old male, a resident of Brgy. Apatot, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur, and was entrapped at the parking area of Asia United Bank in San Nicolas, Candon City.  Authorities recovered 105 pieces of firecracker (Dart Bomb), boodled money used, and the mobile device used to facilitate the transaction. Fajardo reminded the public that prohibited items include watusi, pop-pop, pla-pla, piccolo, five-star, giant bawang, giant whistle bomb, atomic bomb, large-size Judas Belt, super lolo, and Goodbye Bading. Also banned are Lolo Thunder, Mother Rockets, Bin Laden, Kalabsi, Super Yolanda, Boga, Kwiton, Hello Columbia, King Kong, Dart Bomb, GPH Nuclear, Tuna, and Goodbye Chismosa because they are overweight for containing more than 0.2 grams of explosives and lack proper manufacturer markings. The RCSU1 Chief, who assumed the position on August 11, stressed that the sale of illegal firecrackers carries penalties, including confiscation of all merchandise, fines ranging from P20,000 to P30,000, and imprisonment of six months to one year. She even advised the community to purchase only from the authorized sellers and avoid using prohibited firecrackers to ensure a safe and injury-free celebration. The use of firecrackers and pyrotechnics remains a common New Year tradition in the Philippines to drive away bad luck and evil spirits.

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines – Joint personnel of the Regional Civil Security Unit of the Police Regional Office-1 nabbed a firecracker seller during an entrapment operation in Barangay San Nicolas, Candon City, Ilocos Sur, on December 16. According to PCol. Cherry Fajardo, chief of RCSU1, the 26-year-old man, a resident of San Esteban, Ilocos Sur, negotiated with them to sell firecrackers, so the entrapment was conducted with the help of other police agencies. The operation was conducted at around 5:35 p.m. in the aforementioned area and 105 pieces of Dart Bombs worth P4,200 were confiscated from the suspect and the boodle money and cash used in the entrapment were also recovered. According to Fajardo, the confiscated firecrackers were being smuggled and the suspect is facing charges for violation of Section 3 of RA 7183 (An Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution, and Use of Firecrackers and Other Pyrotechnic Devices), in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012). (By Zaldy Comanda)  

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, Philippines  – The Provincial Government, led by Governor Ramon V. Guico III, celebrated this year’s Christmas Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol Complex, emphasizing the true meaning of Christmas amidst the challenges faced by the province. In his speech, Governor Guico acknowledged the difficulties brought by recent calamities, notably Typhoon Uwan, but highlighted the resilience and unity of Pangasinenses from the leaders down to the residents. He emphasized that Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ bringing hope and love to everyone. He thanked local government unit officials for their effort in spreading joy to their constituents through their own Christmas celebrations. He also expressed gratitude to his wife, the province’s First Lady, Maan Tuazon-Guico, for her role in organizing the event for the past four years. Reflecting the province’s renewed spirit of hope, unity and generosity, ‘Paskong Ang Galing, Pangasinan Nagniningning,’ brought the holiday spirit to the Capitol Grounds through spectacular display of lights and decorations. The 48-feet tall Christmas tree stood with colorful designs and the Nativity scene or ‘Belen’ showcases giant statues illustrating the birth of Jesus Christ. During the event, the “TAWIRAN: Pamanang Kaalaman Para Sa Magandang Kinabukasan” program was launched. This aimed at empowering out-of-school youth through Community-Based Values Formation and Functional Literacy Program. The top three local government units (LGUs) in the Parol Making Contest were also announced as follows: LGU Bani (Champion); LGU Rosales (1st Runner-up); LGU Bolinao (2nd Runner-up). The first family was enjoined by Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino and wife, Atty. Melanie Lambino, members of the provincial board with their family, department heads and chiefs of hospitals led by Provincial Administrator Manuel O. Luis Jr., LGU officials and representatives, stakeholders among other guests. Adding a thrilling touch to the celebration was the magnificent fireworks display that lit up the sky creating a festive atmosphere embodying the spirit of Christmas in Pangasinan. (Ruby F. Rayat, Photos by JP De Vera & Charish Rivera | PIMRO)