By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — Atty. Voltaire B. Garcia, who served as the Provincial Legal Officer for the provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya for 12 years, has recently taken his oath as the new Governor of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) for Northern Luzon. The ceremony took place at the Supreme Court Session Hall in Manila. This event highlights the important role of the IBP, the official organization for all lawyers in the Philippines, which is tasked by the Supreme Court with improving the standards of the legal profession. All practicing lawyers in the country are required to be members of the IBP. As the IBP Governor for Northern Luzon, Atty. Garcia will oversee the IBP chapters in the provinces under this region, which include Abra, Apayao, Baguio-Benguet, Batanes. Cagayan,Ifugao,Isabela, Kalinga, La Union, Mountain Province, Nueva Vizcaya, Pangasinan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and Quirino. Atty. Garcia has also served as the President of the IBP Nueva Vizcaya chapter, further enhancing his experience and commitment to the legal community.   The oath of office for Atty. Garcia was administered by Associate Justice Jhosep Y. Lopez. He took his oath alongside eight other newly elected IBP Governors: Atty. Dick F. Fernandez (Central Luzon), Atty. Ma. Elena G. Francisco (Greater Manila Region), Atty. Thaddeus E. Venturanza (Southern Luzon), Atty. Randall C. Tabayoyong (Executive Vice President and Governor for Bicolandia), Atty. Patrick V. Santo (Eastern Visayas), Atty. Susanne C. Lacson (Western Visayas), Atty. Roxan G. Apostol (Eastern Mindanao), and Atty. Quirino G. Esguerra, Jr. (Western Mindanao). Atty. Allan G. Panolong was also sworn in as the IBP National President during the same ceremony. All officers will serve until 2027. The event was attended by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen, and several other justices of the Supreme Court, underscoring the significance of the occasion. Atty. Garcia has a strong background in public service, having served as the Provincial Legal Officer under three governors: Ruth R. Padilla, Carlos M. Padilla, and Atty. Jose V. Gambito. He resigned from this position recently after being elected as IBP Governor. His experience will help him effectively represent the lawyers from the 14 provinces in Northern Luzon. Notably, Atty. Garcia is the second lawyer from Nueva Vizcaya to hold this important role since the Philippine Bar was integrated in 1973, following retired RTC Judge Esther P. Flor. His leadership is expected to strengthen the voice of Northern Luzon lawyers within the IBP’s Board of Governors, which includes representatives from all over the country.    

By Rachel Magday   The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Bayombong District Office(BAYDO) presented its 2024 accomplishments in crime prevention and public safety during the Monday flag-raising ceremony at the Provincial Capitol, where they served as the event’s sponsor. Highlighting the NBI Bayombong District Office’s achievements, Virgilio C. Reganit ,head of NBI BAYDO detailed several key operations: Anti-Human Trafficking Operation in Barangay Homestead, Bambang: This operation targeted an illicit bar involved in trafficking women, including minors, for sexual exploitation. Five victims were rescued, and three perpetrators were arrested, showcasing the office’s dedication to protecting vulnerable individuals and prosecuting traffickers. Operation Pine Tree in Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya: Aiming to curb illegal logging, this operation led to the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of illegally sourced pine wood products, reinforcing the enforcement of environmental laws. Apprehension of Long-Time Fugitive in Lamut, Ifugao: After 22 years on the run, Felicisimo Arce, Jr., a homicide suspect from a 2001 case, was captured on July 3, 2024. His arrest was the result of meticulous tracking and coordination, bringing long-awaited justice to the victims’ families. Usurpation of Authority Case at Bayombong Convention Center: Omar P. Moreno was arrested on August 29, 2024, for falsely representing himself as a high-ranking government official. This operation highlighted NBI-BAYDO’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of public institutions. Destruction of Marijuana Plantation in Tinglayan, Kalinga: As part of “Oplan Green Gold III,” NBI-BAYDO, in collaboration with PDEA and other units, destroyed two large illegal marijuana plantations covering 15,400 square meters on August 16, 2024. This operation demonstrated the bureau’s firm stance against illegal drug activities. Search and Seizure for RA 4653 Violation (Used Clothing Ban): Acting on public complaints, NBI-BAYDO uncovered an illegal “Ukay-Ukay” warehouse in Bayombong. The lawful search on November 7, 2024, resulted in the arrest of Jeffrey R. Domingo and charges against Grazielle D. Domingo. Seized items were valued at approximately ₱3 million, underscoring efforts to protect public health and legal commerce. Reganit expressed his gratitude to the provincial government, led by Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, for their constant support. He concluded his report by reaffirming the NBI Bayombong District Office’s dedication to supporting Governor Gambito’s programs aimed at fostering a safe and orderly province.  

DIFFUN, Quirino (PIA) – – Banana farmers in the Cagayan Valley region can now avail of high-yield banana varieties as Quirino State University–Banana Resources Research and Development Center (QSU-BRRDC) offers high-quality tissue-cultured banana plantlets at low price. Elizabeth R. Oppuer, QSU-BRRDC center chief, said the university initiative supports sustainable agriculture and farmers’ livelihood in Quirino and nearby provinces in the Cagayan Valley region. Oppuer assured that the plantlets sold at P45 each are disease-free, faster-fruiting, and higher-yielding compared to traditional planting materials. “They are ideal for high-density planting, ensuring uniform growth and quicker returns, making them a smart, science-based solution for local banana growers,” Oppuer explained. According to Henrey R. Ignacio, QSU-BRRDC research assistant, the available banana varieties include: Lakatan, which is sweet, firm, and harvestable within 10 months; Latundan, which is aromatic and fast-growing; Cardava, which is best for cooking and processing, ready in 18-20 months; and Cavendish, which is export-quality and globally in demand. Ignacio said those who are interested to inquire may contact 0917-636-2043 (Globe) or 0981-282-9430 (TNT). “Interested farmers must pick up their orders at the QSU-BRRDC facility, as the center currently does not offer delivery services. The number of plantlets a farmer can purchase depends on their available land area, ” Ignacio said. Furthermore, Ignacio said plant maturity varies by variety, and proper farm management significantly influences the harvesting period. The QSU-BRRDC also provides technical training and on-site assistance for banana farming, support for student researchers, On-the-Job Training, and Senior High School immersion programs. Aside from these, QSU also offers research partnerships with schools, Local Government Units, and private entities. (OTB/TCB/PIA-2, QUIRINO)  

By Rachel Magday   In furtherance of providing the best service to the people of Nueva Vizcaya, Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has introduced a dedicated team of two receptionists at the lobby of the Provincial Capitol. This initiative is part of his commitment to ensure that citizens seeking assistance or submitting resolutions and requests at the capitol receive proper attention and service. Governor Gambito emphasized the importance of having dedicated staff to promptly address the needs of the public. “We want to ensure that every Novo Vizcayano who approaches various offices in the provincial government experiences efficient and timely service,” the governor stated. He frequently reminds all employees to be cordial to visitors, emphasizing that the people are the true bosses, as their taxes fund the salaries of government employees. The newly appointed receptionists will primarily be responsible for providing information, guidance, and directions to visitors at the capitol. They will also serve as the first point of contact for citizens with inquiries or those needing assistance regarding their submitted documents or requests. This initiative is part of a broader program by the provincial government aimed at ensuring the best public service system in Nueva Vizcaya. Gambito hopes that through such measures, the government will be more accessible to the people, and the delivery of services to every Novo Vizcayano will be more effective. The governor continues to encourage residents to share their suggestions and concerns to further improve public services in the province.

The long wait is over for residents of Nueva Vizcaya as the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) service center is set for its soft opening on July 15, 2025. This development was announced by Ms. Dolly Rose C. Minas, head of the Public Employment Service Division under the office  of Governor Atty.Jose V. Gambito, who also serves as the designated coordinator for the project. Ms. Minas made the announcement following her visit to PRC Regional Director John G. Alilam at the PRC regional office in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. The new service center will be located at Nightingale Hall, within the provincial capitol complex, adjacent to the Philippine National Red Cross office. The service center will not only cater to professionals from Nueva Vizcaya but also to those from the neighboring provinces of Quirino and Ifugao, providing a much-needed convenience for professionals in these areas. Governor Gambito expressed his commitment to the project, stating, “This service center reflects our dedication to improving the accessibility of essential services for our professionals. We are committed to supporting their needs and making their professional journeys smoother.” Currently, two personnel hired by the provincial government are undergoing training at the PRC Regional Office. They will manage the service center alongside a PRC staff member who will supervise operations. According to Ms. Minas, the service center will offer various services, including receiving applications for new or renewed PRC licenses, authentication, and certification. Online applications will still be accepted. All applications received at the center will be forwarded to the regional office every Friday for approval and returned the following week for applicants to pick up. In addition to providing manpower, the provincial government has also supplied office equipment, including tables, chairs, and computers. Governor Gambito has instructed the IT Division to ensure internet connectivity for the service center. Director Alilam also conveyed that Nueva Vizcaya will soon be the venue for the Licensure Examination for Teachers and possibly the Criminology Board Exam, as

Governor Rodito T. Albano joined President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila for the turnover of 387 Patient Transport Vehicles (PTVs) from Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), with 20 units awarded to Isabela municipalities, on July 9, 2025. President Marcos, together with PCSO General Manager Melquiades Robles, led the ceremonial turnover of the vehicles, to be deployed across seven regions in Luzon, with priority given to far-flung and underserved communities. For the province of Isabela, 20 municipalities received their respective PTV units: Alicia, Aurora, Benito Soliven, Burgos, Cabagan, Divilacan, Echague, Luna, Maconacon, Mallig, Naguilian, Palanan, Quezon, Ramon, San Isidro, San Mariano, San Mateo, San Pablo, Santa Maria, and Tumauini. Each vehicle is fully equipped with essential emergency tools, including a stretcher, oxygen tank, blood pressure monitor, and other vital medical supplies, to ensure the safe and efficient transport of patients from their communities to the nearest healthcare facility.

Cabagan’s little bookworms just got their new favorite hangout! The Hooked on Books (HOB) Library, a children’s reading hub, was launched today along with its affiliated reading program at Cabagan Science Elementary School (CSES) in Cabagan, Isabela. This is the first HOB Library in the province and the 24th nationwide, made possible through a partnership between the Local Government Unit of Cabagan and LINKS Philippines. Aside from children’s books, the library features murals painted by Cabagan virtual artists, depicting Pancit Cabagan, cornfields, migratory birds, Cabagan Square Park carousel, and the late congressman and former Isabela vice governor Rodolfo B. Albano Jr., or “Tata Rudy,” the father of Governor Rodito T. Albano. Volunteers, school heads from the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Isabela, LGU Cabagan, barangay officials, the LINKS Philippines team, and parents worked together to prepare the library and organize activities for students and the community over the past two days. Provincial Administrator Atty. Christopher A. Mamauag commended LINKS Philippines for their efforts and expressed hope that the initiative would reach more communities nationwide.          

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan – Isinusulong ngayon ni Gobernador Edgar “Manong Egay” Aglipay ang “Bagong Pilipinas, Bagong Cagayan” kung saan lalamanin nito ang mga platapormang nakapaloob sa kanyang “One Cagayan”: E- Employment, Environment, & Energy: Empowering Cagayan’s Growth Engines G- Good Governance: Leadership with Integrity A – Agricultural Support: Strengthening the Province’s Backbone Y- Youth Development & Elderly Care: Investing Across Generations. Sa loob lamang ng tatlong araw mula nang isagawa ang kanyang oath-taking ay umabot na sa 14 bayan sa Cagayan ang kanyang nabisita. Pambihirang pagkakataon kung ituring ng karamihan ang pakikipag-daupang palad ni Gob. Aglipay sa mga lider sa bawa’t bayan sa Cagayan upang sila’y pagkaisahin para sa progresong hangad sa probinsiya. Personal siyang nakipagpulong sa mga alkalde, bise-alkalde, miyembro ng sangguniang bayan, kapitan, kabataan, school heads, at mga empleyado ng munisipiyo, Kabilang sa kanyang mga nabisita na ang mga bayan ng Amulung, Peñablanca, Iguig, Tuguegarao, Solana, Enrile, Lasam, Abulug, Ballesteros, Gonzaga, Sta. Teresita, Allacapan, Buguey, at Camalaniugan. Sa kanyang pakikipagdayalogo, iisa lamang ang kanyang pakiusap sa mga lider, ito ay ang pagkakaisa at ang pagsantabi sa mga nabuong hidwaan at alitan. “Tama na please. Tama na. Ayaw kong maging governor, 77 na ako, nandito lang ako para ayusin na ang lahat,” pakiusap ni Gob. Aglipay. Matatandaang maging sina 1st District Congressman Ramon Nolasco Sr. at 2nd District Congresswoman Baby Aline Vargas – Alfonso ay dumalo rin sa oath-taking at inagurasyon ng gobernador. “Tanging si 3rd District Joseph “Jojo” Lara lamang ang hindi nakadalo dahil ito ay kasalukuyang nasa ibang bansa. Magkasama na rin kami ni Aline at Ramon. Si Jojo sana magkita rin kami at mag-usap para maayos na ang lahat at magsama na rin kami,” ani Gob. Aglipay. Naniniwala ang gobernador na kung nagkakaisa ang lahat ng mga lider sa Cagayan ay maipatutupad sa madaling panahon ang kanyang binuong plataporma at programang nakabase sa “Bagong Pilipinas” ni Pang. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Ang kanyang mga adhikaing ito ay nakatuon sa pag-angat ng ekonomiya ng lalawigan na magpapaunlad sa kabuhayan ng bawa’t isang Cagayano. Ayon kay Gob. Aglipay, ipupusta niya ang kanyang buhay para magkaisa ang lahat at titiyaking maisasakatuparan ang lahat ng kanyang ninanais sa mga Cagayano lalo’t sa kanyang administrasyon ay magkasundo ang executive at legislative na pamumunuan ni Bise Gobernador Manuel Mamba. “Nakitak ti rigat dagiti adda iti baba isu nga um-umayak ditoy makipatang nga agtitimpuyug tayun. Didtoy nakun Cagayan, ipustak ti biyag ko para kanya yu. Awan ti sabali nga interes ko nu haan nga pagkaykaysaen kayu. Kaya tayu nga parang-ayen ti biyag ti Cagayano nu agtitimpuyog tayu,” mensahe ni Gob. Aglipay. Nangako rin ang gobernador, na mararamdaman ng bawa’t Cagayano ang pagbabago sa Cagayan sa ilalim ng kanyang administrasyon. Sinisiguro niyang matututukan ang lahat ng sektor lalo ang suportang kailangan ng mga magsasaka at pagpapalakas sa mga kabataan. “Pagserbiyan kayu amin. Immayak ditoy [Cagayan] ta pagserbiyak ti mannalon ken mangngalap, dagiti marigrigat,” ani Gob Aglipay. Aasahan din sa kanyang administrasyon ang maraming trabaho para sa Cagayano dahil sa itatayong maraming negosyo sa probinsiya. “Ito ang masasabi ko sainyo, lahat ng ipapatayo kong negosyo sa Cagayan ang 5% ng net income ko after ng report sa BIR ibibigay ko sa mga Cagayano,” pangako ng gobernador. Nakatakda rin ang pagbisita ng gobernador sa iba pang bayan para hikayatin din ang iba pang mga lider sa kanyang hinahangad na pagkakaisa. (Reden De los Santos)      

By Rachel Magday   Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito called for unity, integrity, and a people-first approach in governance during a courtesy visit by the members of the 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan to his office today,July 3. The delegation, led by Vice Governor Eufemia Ang Dacayo, included all regular and ex-officio members of the provincial board. The visit was a gesture of support and solidarity with the governor’s administration. In his remarks, Governor Gambito appealed to the board members to act with honesty and always consider the welfare of the people above all else. “I urge you to be honest with yourselves. If a proposal is truly for the benefit of our people, I ask for your support,” he said. “I will never request any legislative action from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan unless it serves the best interests of the Novo Vizcayanos. I assure you, I will not seek funds for projects that only serve my political interests.” Gambito also emphasized the importance of setting aside political differences for the greater good. “We may not always share the same political alignments, but I hope this will not stop us from supporting programs that will benefit our province,” he said. He further encouraged the board members to make decisions based on their conscience and not on external influences. “Please do not let anyone sway your judgment. Act according to your conscience. If we disagree because of our differing perspectives, I understand—that is democracy. But if our differences are simply because we are not political allies, that would be disappointing, because it is the people who will ultimately suffer,” Gambito stated. “The people have entrusted us with the opportunity to serve. Let us use this chance wisely and work together for the benefit of our constituents,” he added. “Let us not waste the opportunity that has been given to us. We will not be here forever—so let us do what is right while we still have the chance, so that when our time is over, we will have no regrets about how we served.” The courtesy call reflected a renewed commitment among provincial leaders to uphold Governor Gambito’s advocacy for unity, integrity, and genuine public service for the continued progress of Nueva Vizcaya.