CAGAYAN, Philippines — Tuguegarao City, under the leadership of Mayor Maila Ting, has once again been recognized as National Special Awardee-Best City Government Category, during the prestigious award was conferred by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., PNP Chief Nicolar D. Torre III, and DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla during the 124th Anniversary Celebration of the Philippine National Police. In the same event, the Cagayan Provincial Police Office was named Best Provincial Police Office in the Philippines, while the Tuguegarao City Component Police Station was hailed as Best Component Police Station in the Philippines. These recognitions underscore the commitment of Tuguegarao City and its law enforcement agencies to excellence in governance, public safety, and community service. (From Mayor Maila Ting)    

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — Congressman Atty. Timothy Joseph E. Cayton has hit the ground running in the opening week of the 20th Congress, filing five key bills aimed at strengthening social welfare, supporting educators, and empowering local government units. Leading his legislative agenda is House Bill No. 2691, which seeks to establish a universal social pension for senior citizens. By amending current statutes, this measure aims to guarantee financial support for all elderly Filipinos, reinforcing the country’s commitment to social justice and ensuring that no senior is left behind. Recognizing the vital role of teachers in nation-building, House Bill No. 2692 proposes a special bonus for public school teachers every October, in celebration of Teachers’ Month. This initiative not only offers much-needed financial incentives but also serves as a tribute to the unwavering dedication of educators shaping the nation’s future. With a vision for reliable and sustainable energy, House Bill No. 2693 seeks to grant a franchise to the Nueva Vizcaya Electric Cooperative, Inc. This legislation will empower the cooperative to manage and distribute electric power throughout Nueva Vizcaya, ensuring consistent and dependable energy access for local communities. To further boost the welfare of local government employees, House Bill No. 2694 proposes to allow local government units (LGUs) to utilize their certified year-end savings to provide additional benefits to their personnel. This measure aims to cultivate a motivated and well-supported local government workforce, driving improved public service. Rounding out his legislative package, House Bill No. 2695 seeks to amend the Local Government Code of 1991 to increase appropriations for personal services. The bill is intended to ensure LGUs can offer competitive compensation to their employees, ultimately enhancing the quality and efficiency of public service delivery. “These bills are a reflection of my deep commitment to serve our senior citizens, educators, and local government personnel,” Congressman Cayton said. “By prioritizing their welfare and empowering our communities, we lay the foundation for a more just, equitable, and progressive society not only for the Novo Vizcayanos but for every Filipino.” All five bills have been formally referred to their respective committees for deliberation and further action    

By Zaldy Comanda   BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya- Pormal na inihain sa Kongreso ni Nueva Vizcaya  Congressman Tim Cayton ang House Bill 2691 (Universal Social Pension) na humihiling ng ₱1,500 monthly social pension sa lahat ng mga senior citizen sa buong bansa. Ayon kay Cayton, ang nasabing HB ay handog sa lahat ng mga seniors na Pilipino, anuman ang kanilang mga katayuan sa buhay, mahirap man o mayaman.   Sinabi ni Cayton na sa loob ng 9 na taon na pagiging Mayor nito sa kanyang bayan sa Dupax del Norte, mula 2016 hanggang 2025, ay walang naiwanan sa mga senior citizen sa kanyang nasasakupan matapos siyang gumawa ng programa para mabigyan silang lahat ng pension. “Walang maiiwan. Let’s give our elders the support and dignity they truly deserve,” pahayag ni Cayton na isang kilalang abogado. Dahil sa nasabing programa at  iba pang mga social services na ipinarupad ng LGU- Dupax del Norte ay pinarangalan si Cayton bilang outstanding mayor of the Philippines noong 2023. “Our senior citizens will always occupy a special place in my heart,” dagdag ng bagitong mambabatas. Dahil sa mga social services na ipinatupad ni Cayton lalo na sa pagtulong sa mga elders, kabataan, magsasaka at lahat ng sektor ay nag- umapaw naman ang suporta ng mga residente ng Nueva Vizcaya sa katatapos na May 12 elections matapos siyang makakuha ng malaking boto at magwagi bilang bagong Congressman sa kabila na siya ang pinakabata sa kanilang 7 na magkakatungali. Inaasahan naman ng mga senior citizen na maipasa ang nasabing HB upang matulungan ang lahat ng mga elders na walang pinipili, mayaman man o mahirap.

By Rachel Magday   SOLANO,Nueva Vizcaya,Philippines — Mayor Philip A. Dacayo of Solano,Nueva Vizcaya has outlined a vision for the municipality’s growth and development as it works toward achieving cityhood. In a recent interview, Dacayo emphasized that while Solano is not yet a city, the local government is committed to providing services and benefits comparable to those of a city. “We may not be a city, but we will strive hard to deliver the services and privileges that a city can provide to its constituents. City is just a name or a branding,” he stated, reflecting his determination to enhance the community’s well-being. Solano is making significant progress in meeting the requirements for cityhood. The municipality has generated approximately 300 million pesos in local income and meets the land area criteria. However, Dacayo acknowledged that the population requirement remains a challenge. He clarified that, according to current laws, meeting either the population or income criteria is sufficient for cityhood eligibility. Dacayo also took pride in announcing that Solano is the only municipality in the province that is ISO certified in Quality Management System(QMS). This achievement underscores the local government’s commitment to maintaining high standards in service delivery and operational efficiency. Key investments are on the horizon for Solano, including the upcoming Camella subdivision, which is set to begin pre-selling in the coming months. Additionally, discussions are ongoing with Robinsons for the construction of a new mall, which is expected to create jobs and stimulate local economic growth. Dacayo highlighted the importance of activating Bagabag Airport, a priority for Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, which he believes will enhance connectivity and open up new opportunities for the municipality. He is also collaborating with Cagayan Valley Regional Tourism Council (CVRTC)Chair Ruth R. Padilla to work on various infrastructure projects for Solano. Acknowledging her connections, Dacayo believes that her support will be instrumental in securing funding for these initiatives. Plans are underway for a new four-story municipal or city hall, with an estimated budget of 400 to 500 million pesos. Congressman Timothy Joseph E. Cayton has pledged an initial fund of 150 million pesos to support the first phase of this project. Furthermore, a central terminal is planned to accommodate various national government offices, positioning Solano as an institutional center. As Solano moves forward in its development efforts, Mayor Dacayo emphasizes that the people of Solano deserve the best. He believes that the community should live up to its reputation as the best of Nueva Vizcaya, striving for excellence in services and opportunities for the Solanoans.      

ILAGAN CITY, Isabela,Philippines — A new learning center dedicated to agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and smallholder farmers will soon rise in Isabela, following a groundbreaking ceremony led by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Provincial Government of Isabela (PGI) on July 31. The site is located in front of the Isabela Sports Senior High School, behind the Isabela Sports Complex within the Capitol Compound in Alibagu, City of Ilagan. Leading the ceremony were DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, DAR R02 Director Primo C. Lara, Isabela Governor Rodito T. Albano, and several municipal mayors from the province. To commemorate the occasion, the officials placed a time capsule containing a copy of the project plan at the site. The project is funded by DAR under the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) Project, and will be implemented by the PGI. Key infrastructure components of the learning center include a training center and dormitory, processing center, product display center, administrative building, greenhouse facility, and a tissue culture laboratory. Once completed, the center is expected to benefit more than 166,000 ARBs, approximately 52,000 potential ARBs, and 467 Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) across 58 agrarian reform communities in the Cagayan Valley Region.  

Congressman Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III of Isabela’s 6th District has been elected Deputy Speaker during the opening of the first regular session of the 20th Congress on July 28. Dy, a seasoned public servant, previously served as Governor of Isabela from 2010 to 2019 and as Vice Governor from 2019 to 2025. As Deputy Speaker, he will assist the House Speaker in presiding over sessions and help steer legislative priorities and proceedings in the House of Representatives.

Basco, Batanes, Philippines – Globe is upgrading its sites using alternative and innovative transport technology as a strategic initiative to greatly improve its mobile network experience in Batanes Islands. This will allow residents and visitors in the northernmost province to enjoy a more reliable and highspeed connectivity. The upgrade addresses the growing demand for internet connectivity in the geographically unique and often challenging terrain of the Batanes Islands. The deployment and expansion of 4G LTE provides a robust and resilient solution needed in remote island communities. “We’re thrilled to bring a new level of connectivity to our valued customers in Batanes,” said Joel Agustin, Globe’s Head of Service Planning and Engineering. “This initiative underscores Globe’s unwavering commitment to digital inclusion, ensuring that even our remotest communities have access to the same quality of mobile services enjoyed in urban centers. The upgraded sites are a game-changer for Batanes, enabling faster downloads, smoother streaming, and more seamless online interactions for everyone.” Customers in Batanes can now experience a noticeable improvement in their mobile data experience, facilitating better access to online education, e-commerce, digital entertainment, and vital communication services. This enhanced connectivity is expected to further support local businesses, tourism, and the overall socio-economic development of the Batanes Islands. Globe remains dedicated to continuously improving its network infrastructure across the Philippines, bridging the digital divide and empowering Filipinos with world-class connectivity.                

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.