By Rachel Magday   BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya — Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has reiterated his directive to law enforcement officials to issue citation tickets to motorists who fail to adhere to traffic enforcers’ rules and regulations. This comes as the province braces for anticipated traffic congestion on the national highway due to the resumption of road construction activities on January 6, 2025. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region II had temporarily suspended these road projects from December 20, 2024 to January 5, 2025 to accommodate the influx of vehicles as people returned to their provinces in the Cagayan Valley and Cordillera Administrative Region(CAR) for the Christmas and New Year celebrations. In an advisory released by DPWH Regional Office, they announced that road construction activities would resume on January 6. The department is appealing for public cooperation in following traffic rules and regulations. They also urge motorists to avoid counter-flowing to prevent any incidents that could worsen traffic congestion. To manage the expected increase in traffic, additional police personnel will be deployed to key areas to assist in traffic management and ensure smooth vehicular flow. The traffic plan includes a 30-minute interval system at certain construction sites to facilitate one-way traffic flow and minimize delays. Additionally, the DPWH recommends the following alternate route for motorists to help avoid traffic congestion: Ifugao Route: Enter Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya Proceed to Lamut, Ifugao Pass through the towns of Lagawe, Banaue, Mayoyao, Aguinaldo, and Alfonso Lista, all in Ifugao Exit through Ramon, Isabela Time Travel: Approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes – Distance: 180 kilometers Governor Gambito has also instructed the contractors of these DPWH projects to deploy additional flagmen at their construction sites, ensuring their presence 24 hours a day. This measure aims to enhance safety and provide constant guidance to motorists navigating through construction zones. Gambito emphasized the importance of cooperation from all road users. “We urge everyone to follow the traffic rules and respect the guidance of our traffic enforcers and flagmen. These road projects are crucial for our community’s development, and your patience and cooperation are vital to their successful completion.” The DPWH assured the public that they are making every effort to expedite the completion of these projects, which aim to provide a safer, faster, and more reliable road network for everyone. For commuters’ information, here are the details of the road construction programs and lane accessibility in the affected areas: Brgy. Nagsabaran, Diadi (K0297+325-K0297+550) Length: 225 meters, intermittent sections Some sections will undergo reblocking, but both outer lanes and the right-lane carriageway will be accessible. Expect a two-way traffic flow. Brgy. Kinacao, Bagabag (K0286+100-K0286+400) Length: 100 meters The left lane will undergo reconstruction, leaving only one lane accessible. Expect a one-way traffic flow with a 30-minute interval. Batu Bridge, Bambang (K0256+017) Length: 390.60 linear meters One lane will undergo maintenance works. Expect a one-way traffic flow with a 30-minute interval. Motorists are encouraged to plan their journeys accordingly and exercise patience as these essential infrastructure improvements are underway.

  By Rachel Magday In a decisive move to address the persistent issue of overloaded vehicles, the Provincial Development Council (PDC) of Nueva Vizcaya, chaired by Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, has passed a resolution seeking co-management of the weigh bridge in Barangay Calitlitan, Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya. The resolution, addressed to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and endorsed to the Cagayan Valley Regional Development Council was approved during the PDC meeting on December 19. The initiative aims to ensure the continuous operation of the weigh bridge and to strengthen the enforcement of Republic Act 8794, which imposes a Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC) on all vehicle owners. Governor Gambito noted that the current penalties for violations are relatively low, making it easy for truckers to disregard the law. He emphasized the importance of local government involvement in resolving these issues, stating, “It’s not feasible to rely solely on the national government to resolve local issues because they are often too preoccupied with numerous other responsibilities. We need to take initiative at the local level to address these problems effectively.” Data provided by the DPWH reveals that an alarming 98.77% of trucks weighed at the facility between July and December 2022 were overloaded. Out of 13,963 trucks assessed, 13,791 exceeded the legal weight limits. This statistic highlights the ineffectiveness of current penalties as a deterrent against overloading. Currently, penalized vehicles are allowed to continue to their destinations without unloading excess cargo, which accelerates the deterioration of national roads and bridges and requires additional maintenance funds. Moreover, overloaded trucks are frequently involved in road accidents, contributing to traffic congestion and posing significant safety risks to other road users. Governor Gambito criticized the current enforcement practices, particularly the reluctance to unload excess cargo due to a lack of storage facilities. He stated, “The excuse that there are no warehouses to secure unloaded cargos is unacceptable. Finding storage solutions is the responsibility of truck owners, not the authorities.” He further emphasized that allowing overloaded trucks to continue their travels makes them principal violators of the law, undermining efforts to enforce regulations effectively. Part of the co-management strategy includes allocating funds for the maintenance of the weigh bridge. This financial commitment is essential to ensure the facility remains operational and effective in monitoring and regulating vehicle weights. The governor called for stronger enforcement of the law to ensure that everyone follows it and to prevent future violations. By working together with national regulations, Gov Gambito hopes to create a good example of effective local governance and road maintenance, leading to safer roads for all motorists.      

By Rachel Magday   Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has officially launched the “Dalan ti Umili” program, a transformative initiative aimed at improving infrastructure in barangays throughout the province, on December 20. The awarding ceremony, marked the beginning of a project designed to facilitate the construction of farm-to-market roads, thereby boosting local economies and enhancing community connectivity. The brainchild of Governor Gambito, “Dalan ti Umili” provides crucial cement and fuel assistance to barangays, enabling them to undertake vital road construction projects. The provincial government supplies the necessary materials, while the communities contribute labor and gravel, fostering a collaborative approach to development. Provincial Agriculture Officer Absalom Baysa shared that 21 barangays have been identified as the initial beneficiaries of the program, receiving a total of 20,000 bags of cement. This first wave of support is set to promote infrastructure improvements that will benefit farmers and residents alike. With a budget allocation of P30 million for cement and an additional P5 million for fuel, the provincial government demonstrates its strong commitment to rural development. Gambito emphasized the importance of the program, saying, “This initiative is about more than just building roads; it’s about building futures. By improving access to markets, we are empowering our farmers and creating opportunities for growth and prosperity. Together, we are paving the way for a more prosperous tomorrow for our communities.” In addition to “Dalan ti Umili,” Governor Gambito continues to champion the “Kalsada ti Kabanbantayan” program, further showcasing his dedication to enhancing infrastructure across the province. This program focuses on improving roads in mountainous areas, ensuring that even the most remote communities are connected and have access to essential services.        

By Rachel Magday   Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the entire provincial government family, during an inspiring address at the Provincial Capitol Christmas Program organized by the Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Employees Association (NVPEA), under the leadership of its president, Jolinda Cambas, He emphasized the recent accolades earned by Nueva Vizcaya, including the prestigious Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), often referred to as the “mother of all awards” and the most sought-after recognition for local government units. These accomplishments, he noted, stand as a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work of the provincial government employees. Gambito emphasized that these honors are not the result of his efforts alone or those of the provincial officials and department heads, but are due to the unwavering support and cooperation of every employee. “I cannot thank you enough,” he stated, assuring them that his administration will continue to make a significant difference in improving the lives of the people. Addressing the employees directly, he added, “Don’t worry, all your hard work will be compensated. Especially now during the holidays, I am a generous governor.” This reassurance was met with enthusiasm, reflecting the appreciation for the governor’s commitment to recognizing their efforts. Governor Gambito also acknowledged that while some employees may have come from other provinces, they now reside in Nueva Vizcaya, making it their home He urged everyone to cherish and protect the province, fostering a sense of belonging and pride. As the province looks toward the future, Governor Gambito encouraged employees to continue their exemplary work in the coming year. He emphasized the importance of seizing the opportunity to contribute to Nueva Vizcaya’s progress, not just for the present generation but for their children and grandchildren. Let us stand together as one community, supporting each other and working hand in hand for a more progressive Nueva Vizcaya,” Governor Gambito concluded, rallying the employees to unite in their efforts for the betterment of the province.        

By Badz Heralde-Cagayan PIO   TUGUEGARAO CITY — Mahigpit na ipinag-utos ni Gob. Manuel Mamba sa mga Department Head ng Kapitolyo ng Cagayan na agarang ipatupad at tapusin na ang mga nakabinbing proyektong napondohan sa mga nakalipas na taon. Ipinahayag ito ni Mamba sa Department Head, kasama ang mga Chief of Hospital sa naganap na Management Committee (ManCom) Meeting sa Conference Hall, Capitol Main Building, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, noong 14. Aniya, nararapat lamang na matapos na ang mga ito dahil pondo ito sa ilalim ng kanyang administrasyon. Kabilang sa mga pinatututukan ang iba’t ibang proyektong pang-imprastraktura at iba pa na kailangan aniyang tapusin at ipatupad upang mapakinabangan na ng mga Cagayano. “Posible maapektuhan ang mga ito pagsapit ng eleksyon dahil sa gagawing election ban, dagdag pa ng Gobernador. “Ang dami kong gustong matapos at the end of the year. All of these things are funds after my administration. Let’s do this fast. Tutukan ang lahat ng kayang gawin, lahat ng kayang i-implimenta. As you know I signed everyday, kapag nakikita niyo na na-stock, puntahan niyo,” ani Gob. Mamba. Ayon pa sa Gobernador, bagama’t siya ay patapos na sa kanyang ikatlo at huling termino ay nais pa rin niyang maipagpatuloy ang mga magagandang nasimulan sa probinsiya. “I’m on my last term pero ‘di ko pababayaan ang province. I am considering not running anymore pero sinabi ni Manong Egay, ikaw ang Vice Gov. ko. People still believe, people clamor for continuity. Nakikita ko ‘yun,” sambit ng Ama ng Lalawigan. Kaugnay rito, isa-isa namang nagprisinta ang mga departamento ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Cagayan at ang 12 District Hospitals sa kanilang mga programa at proyekto na naisagawa ngayong taon. Kabilang na rito ang mga proyektong imprastraktura ng Engineering Office; serbisyong naihatid ng Social Welfare Office at programang pangkalusugan ng Provincial Health Office. Tinalakay rin sa pagpupulong ang gaganaping Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) sa buwan ng Abril, kung saan magiging host province ang lalawigan ng Cagayan kasama ang University of Cagayan Valley (UCV). Hinakayat naman ni Gob. Mamba at Provincial Administrator Atty. Maria Rosario Mamba-Villaflor ang mga kawani ng PGC na suportahan ang aktibidad at ipakita na handa na ang Cagayan na pagtangan sa mga malalaking kaganapan katulad ng PRISAA.  

By Rachel Magday   In a landmark achievement, the province of Nueva Vizcaya has been awarded the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Often referred to as the “mother of all awards” for local government units, the SGLG recognizes exemplary governance and service delivery across various critical areas. Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, along with DILG Provincial Director Catherine Alam Miranda, accepted the award during a ceremony held today at The Tent City, Manila Hotel. This marks the first time Nueva Vizcaya has received this prestigious accolade, highlighting the province’s commitment to excellence in governance. Nueva Vizcaya successfully passed all ten areas of governance evaluated for the SGLG award. These areas include: Financial Administration and Sustainability – Ensuring sound financial management and fiscal responsibility. Disaster Preparedness – Establishing effective measures for disaster risk reduction and management. Social Protection and Sensitivity – Providing inclusive social services and safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable sectors. Health Compliance and Responsiveness – Delivering quality healthcare services and maintaining public health standards. Sustainable Education – Promoting accessible and quality education for all. Business-Friendliness and Competitiveness – Fostering an environment conducive to business growth and economic development. Safety, Peace, and Order – Maintaining public safety and ensuring a peaceful community. Environmental Management – Implementing sustainable practices for environmental conservation and protection. Tourism, Heritage Development, Culture and Arts – Preserving cultural heritage while promoting tourism and local arts. Youth Development – Empowering the youth through programs focused on their growth and active participation in governance. In addition to the provincial government, six municipalities within Nueva Vizcaya were also honored with the SGLG award. The municipalities of Kasibu, Ambaguio, Villaverde, Solano, Aritao, and Kayapa were recognized for their outstanding performance in these areas of governance. The awarding ceremony celebrated the efforts of local government units in promoting transparency, accountability, and service efficiency. The SGLG award serves as a testament to Nueva Vizcaya’s dedication to improving the quality of life for its residents through effective governance. Governor Gambito expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “This award is a reflection of our collective efforts and commitment to serving the people of Nueva Vizcaya. As we embark on a journey of unity and collaboration, we recognize that it is the key to our development. Together, we can achieve greater heights and ensure a brighter future for our province. I would also like to give credit to the late Governor Carlos M. Padilla, whose vision and leadership laid the foundation for the progress we are witnessing today. Let this award inspire us to continue working hand in hand for the benefit of all.”        

Pinuna na rin ni Senator Imee Marcos ang matagal at hindi natatapos na konstruksyon ng Tuguegarao-Solana Bridge sa lalawigan ng Cagayan. Sa panayam ng medya sa Senador kaugnay sa pangakong tututukan nito ang rehabilitasyon sa Cagayan, kanyang nabanggit na marami pa umanong pinag-uusapan ngayon ang bicameral conference committee. Dati na umano kasing plano ng kanyang ama na si dating Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Sr. ang paglalagay ng anim na tulay patawid ng Ilog Cagayan. Kwestyonable sa Senador kung bakit umano hindi matapos-tapos ang Tuguegarao-Solana Bridge na simulan halos anim na taon nang nakalilipas. “Bakit ang bagal-bagal ng Tuguegarao- Solana bridge hanggang ngayon ang tanging dinadaan natin yung lumang tulay. Itong rangtay ni tatang ko na buntun bridge forever. Eh ang plano niya di lang natapos sa hindi inaasahang pagkakataon, ang plano niya tatlo, minimum of three bridges for the longest river, Cagayan river. Minimum three, naka drawing six kaya wala nakastock up pa rin tayo ‘di ko maintindihan katagal-tagal naman nitong kinakailangan nating Tuguegaro-Solana,” ani Sen. Imee. Inamin rin ng Senador na maraming isyu sa imprastraktura sa Cagayan katulad sa flood control. “Ang daming issues ng infrastructure sa Cagayan. Alam natin hanggang ngayon wala pang sagot sa flood control kung lalagyan ng malaking cistern sa ilalim at sa palagay ko, ‘yun lang ang tanging magagawa at pati na rin yung mga tinatawag na sponge cities tulad ng Tsina at India na marami ng ganoon eh yung halos lumulutang sila,” pagtatapos ng Senator. (By Cagayan PIO Page)

By Rachel Magday   KASIBU,Nueva Vizcaya — The Department of Agriculture (DA) Philippine Rural Development Project – Regional Project Coordination Office 02 has officially handed over the Malabing Farm-to-Market Road to the Local Government Unit of Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya. This P193 million infrastructure project is set to transform the region, enhancing the agricultural landscape of the area known as the Citrus Capital of the North. DA Assistant Secretary for Operations and PRDP Deputy Project Director U-Nichols Manalo attended the turnover ceremony on behalf of Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. Highlighting the project’s impact, Manalo stated, “This FMR will enhance accessibility and will foster economic growth, open up new markets to increase the livelihood and income of our beneficiaries – the citrus farmers.” He reiterated the Department’s commitment to supporting farmers and fisherfolk and addressing the challenges within the agriculture sector. Regional Executive Director and Project Director Rose Mary G. Aquino congratulated the officials of Kasibu for completing the project on schedule. She emphasized the importance of leveraging the new infrastructure for enterprise development, urging the community to explore by-products such as Vitamin C. “PRDP is not only about roads but also agribusiness. There should be related enterprises to be put up that will contribute to the economic development of people’s lives,” Aquino noted. Former Governor Ruth R. Padilla, representing Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, reflected on the project’s origins during her tenure. She expressed pride in the collaborative efforts that brought the project to completion , stating, “This project was initiated during my incumbency as Governor with citrus as commodity. But the completion of this is a manifestation of our unified efforts in supporting agriculture in this province.” Governor Gambito shared his thoughts on the project’s significance, saying, “The Malabing Farm-to-Market Road is more than just a pathway; it’s a gateway to prosperity for our farmers. This infrastructure will empower our agricultural community to expand their reach, improve their productivity, and ultimately enrich the agricultural heritage of Nueva Vizcaya. Supporting agriculture is a top priority for my administration, and I am committed to ensuring that our farmers have the resources and infrastructure they need to thrive.” Kasibu Mayor Romeo Tayaban, expressed gratitude to the DA PRDP for funding the project. Of the total cost, the provincial government, under the late Governor Carlos M. Padilla, allocated P10 million as a counterpart, while the municipal government of Kasibu contributed P20 million. Spanning four barangays with a total population of 737 and 165 households, the construction of the road began in March 2022 and was completed in October 2024. The event saw the attendance of various officials, including Regional Technical Director Kay S. Olivas, Vice Mayor Alberto Bumolo Jr., Provincial Agriculturist Absalom Rizal Baysa, and several barangay captains from the area.

The province of Nueva Vizcaya, under the leadership Governor Atty.Jose “Jing” V. Gambito, is set to receive a P7.5 million fund from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). This funding marks a significant collaboration between the provincial government and DOLE, aimed at enhancing the growing coffee industry in the province. DOLE Provincial Director Elizabeth U. Martinez, revealed that the allocated funds will be used to support and further develop the coffee industry in Nueva Vizcaya. The beneficiaries of this initiative include five Coffee Farmers Associations from the municipalities of Ambaguio, Sta. Fe, Kasibu, Kayapa, and Dupax del Sur. According to Martinez, the funds will be dedicated to purchasing essential equipment for the coffee farmers, enabling them to improve their production capabilities. In addition to supporting the farmers, DOLE will also allocate funds to 13 coffee shops across the province. Each coffee shop will receive between P250,000 to P300,000, intended for training and equipment to enhance the quality of their coffee offerings. Governor Gambito expressed his gratitude towards DOLE for their support, stating, “We are thankful for this funding from the Department of Labor and Employment. This support is a vital step towards the growth of our coffee industry. We cannot solely rely on the provincial government’s fund, as it is limited and insufficient to implement all our programs effectively. Therefore, we must partner with national agencies to secure additional funding, ensuring the continuous development and prosperity of our province.” The provincial government and DOLE anticipate that the funds will be downloaded to the province within the month, as stated by Martinez. This initiative is expected to significantly boost the local coffee industry, providing both farmers and coffee shop owners with the necessary resources to thrive and compete in the market. (Post from Gayyem TV)