By Rachel Magday BAYOMBONG,Nueva Vizcaya –“Thank you for your P200 million donation for Brgy Malico, Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya,” declared Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito in response to Governor Ramon V. Guico III of Pangasinan’s recent challenge. Governor Guico had urged Nueva Vizcaya to match the PHP 200 million allocated for development before claiming ownership of Malico, a barangay that has long been a point of contention between Sta. Fe,Nueva Vizcaya and San Nicolas,Pangasinan. In a local media interview, Governor Gambito emphasized that the boundary dispute over Malico has already been resolved, asserting that the barangay is officially part of Nueva Vizcaya. He pointed out that the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources(DENR) had delineated the boundaries through a mutually agreed-upon survey, formalized in a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by both parties. “There is no longer any boundary dispute to discuss,” Gambito stated firmly. “The NAMRIA delineation has settled the issue, and it was based on a memorandum of agreement that both parties fully perfected and signed.” Gambito further defended the legitimacy of the agreement, asserting that no laws were violated during the process. “The contract has been consummated, as the completed NAMRIA survey has already delineated the boundaries. There is nothing left to do but respect the results of this agreement. Everything is now a fait accompli.” Highlighting the cultural significance of Malico, Gambito noted that it is an ancestral domain of the Kalanguya tribe, an Indigenous Peoples (IP) group native to Nueva Vizcaya. He stressed the importance of respecting the rights and heritage of the Kalanguya people in any discussions regarding the area. Additionally, he mentioned that the source of electricity for Malico comes from the Nueva Vizcaya Electric Cooperative, further solidifying the barangay’s connection to the province. Gambito also noted that provincial officials of Nueva Vizcaya have not neglected Malico in terms of developmental projects. He highlighted that it was under the leadership of then-Congressman Carlos M. Padilla that the initiative was taken to open and eventually concrete the Nueva Vizcaya-Pangasinan Road.   The completion of this road has paved the way for Malico’s tourism potential, making it more accessible to visitors and enhancing economic opportunities for the local community.   While Gambito expressed gratitude for the P200 million donation, he also voiced concerns regarding Pangasinan’s potential investments in Malico. He warned that such actions could lead to allegations of technical malversation. “If Pangasinan invests in Malico, they would be spending public funds in a territory that falls within the jurisdiction of another local government unit,” he cautioned. “This is a friendly reminder to Governor Guico to carefully consider their plans, as they may expose themselves to legal complications.” According to Gambito, he views the P200 million as a donation because Pangasinan cannot undertake projects in Malico, given that it is not part of their jurisdiction. Gambito further reminded Governor Guico that engaging in projects in an area not under their administrative control could be in violation of regulations set forth by the Commission on Audit (COA)  

CAMP MAJOR SATURNINO DUMLAO, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya – A 58-year-old married farmer and former CTG member (non-PSRTG listed) from Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya, voluntarily withdraw his support to the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and expressed his allegiance to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on August 6. Joint operation conducted by personnel of 1st Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Mobile Force Company (NVPMFC) in coordination with Ambaguio Police Station, facilitated the surrender of a.k.a Arnold and his renunciation of support to the CTG. During the initial interview, Arnold disclosed his involvement with the CTG dating back to 1998 when he was recruited after a meeting at Brgy. Vista Hill, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya. He recounted his training in combat operations and raid at Sitio Ginamgaman, Brgy. Dulli, Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya, as well as a planned attack in Sitio Dinagat, Nalungtutan, Nagtipunan, Quirino, in 2005. In 2008, Arnold decided to leave the group during a training session in Sitio Bagtong Tubo, Brgy. Runruno, Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya, and went into hiding in Sitio Ugaw, Brgy. Labang, Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya. Due to escalating encounters in the municipality in 2010, ARNOLD chose to lie low until now. He sought to surrender to ensure his safety, vindicate his name, and support the government’s efforts in ending insurgency. He is currently undergoing custodial debriefing and documentation to facilitate his proper disposition and ensure appropriate support for his reintegration into mainstream society. Col. Camlon Nasdoman, provincial director said that the accomplishment underscores the continuing commitment of NOVO COPS to seek peace and stability by encouraging former insurgents to lay down their arms, reintegrate into society, and support government initiatives that promote peace and development within the province.      

BATANES — The Social Security System (SSS) said that over 2,000 job order (JO) workers of the Provincial Local Government (PLGU) of Batanes will now have social security protection under the KaSSSangga Collect Program (KCP) after Batanes becomes the newest implementer of the program. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Rolando Ledesma Macasaet and Batanes Governor Marilou H. Cayco inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that allows the provincial government’s JO workers to get social security coverage from SSS under the KCP. “This only shows SSS is committed to its mandate of expanding social security protection and services to all working Filipinos up to the last mile provinces in the Philippines like Batanes,” Macasaet said. Macasaet explained that under the KCP, PLGU’s JO workers will be registered as SSS self-employed members. At the same time, PLGU Batanes will serve as the SSS collecting partner, who shall collect the contributions of the JO workers through a salary deduction scheme and remit them to the SSS. “The timely remittance of monthly premiums will ensure that JO workers are qualified to avail of SSS benefits and loan privileges in times of emergencies,” Macasaet said. He explained that JO workers, as self-employed members, could avail of SSS benefits like sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, death, and funeral. “They can also avail of loan privileges such as salary and calamity loans.” In addition to SSS benefits, he added that they are entitled to receive Employees’ Compensation (EC) benefits in case of work-connected sickness, injury, or death.          

By Rachel Magday       PLGU Nueva Vizcaya BAYOMBONG,Nueva Vizcaya — The Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya under the leadership of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has been honored for its exceptional initiatives in combating trafficking and violence against women and children (VAWC). In the recent Functionality Assessment for the Calendar Year 2023, conducted by the Regional Assessment Team for the Local Committee Against Trafficking & Violence Against Women and their Children (LCAT-VAWC), Nueva Vizcaya achieved a Highly Functional rating. Out of the province’s 15 municipalities, 13 were also rated Highly Functional, while the remaining 2 received a Moderately Functional rating. This assessment underscores Nueva Vizcaya’s commitment and effectiveness in addressing these critical issues. The LCAT-VAWC Functionality Assessment is a vital tool for evaluating the performance of local government units (LGUs) in their efforts to combat trafficking and VAWC. It serves as a basis for policy-making and capacity development, aiming to strengthen the capabilities of LGUs in eliminating these grave societal problems. Governor Gambito expressed pride in the province’s accomplishments and reaffirmed Nueva Vizcaya’s dedication to safeguarding the rights and welfare of women and children. “This recognition is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our local officials and community partners. We will continue to strive for excellence and ensure that our province remains a safe haven for all,” said Governor Gambito. He added, “Our goal is to create a community where every individual, especially women and children, can live free from fear and harm. This Highly Functional rating inspires us to push forward with even greater resolve.” The recognition of Nueva Vizcaya’s efforts highlights the crucial role of sustained and coordinated action in the fight against trafficking and VAWC. It also emphasizes the importance of local governance in driving meaningful change and protecting vulnerable populations.

By Rachel Magday   BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya –Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, alongside Vice Governor Eufemia Ang-Dacayo and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, unveiled the new mobile primary care facility for the province of Nueva Vizcaya. The blessing ceremony, which took place after Monday’s flag raising ceremony, was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Department of Health, Malacañang, and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, underscoring the PBBM administration’s commitment to enhancing public health infrastructure. The state-of-the-art mobile unit, designed as a bus, is equipped with advanced digital x-ray machines, ultrasound equipment, and state-of-the-art laboratory tools. This cutting-edge technology aims to improve the accessibility of healthcare services, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. Governor Gambito expressed his enthusiasm for the new facility, stating, “The introduction of this mobile primary care unit marks a significant milestone in our efforts to provide quality healthcare services to all our constituents. I am grateful for the support and collaboration from Malacañang and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos that have made this initiative possible.” He added, “This mobile unit represents our administration’s dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind in terms of healthcare access. We are committed to reaching even the most remote areas to provide the necessary medical services.” Vice Governor Dacayo also emphasized the importance of the project in bridging the healthcare gap in remote communities. “This mobile unit will bring essential medical services directly to those who need it most, ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all,” she stated. The new mobile primary care facility is poised to begin operations promptly, bringing vital healthcare services to underserved communities. This initiative not only showcases the administration’s dedication to public health but also sets a precedent for future projects aimed at improving healthcare accessibility and quality of life for all residents.

By Badz Heralde      CPIO   TUGUEGARAO CITY — Pinangunahan ni Senator Mark Villar kasama si Gov. Manuel Mamba ang pamamahagi ng tulong pinansiyal sa mga barangay official sa lungsod ng Tuguegarao, noong Lunes, Hulyo 15. Nabigyan ng tig-P1,000 ang nasa 864 na Punong Barangay, Secretary, Treasurer, Barangay Kagawad, Health Worker, at Nutrition Scholars mula sa lungsod ng Tuguegarao. Ang pondo ay tulong ng Senador at ng Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) sa mga barangay official. Ito ay paunang bilang sa kabuuang 14,781 na aasahang makatatanggap ng nasabing tulong. Sa panayam kay Sen. Villar, sinabi niyang hindi lamang ito ang maibababang tulong sa Cagayan dahil aasahang tutulong ito upang maging “Premier Province” ang lalawigan. Aniya, aalamin ng kanyang tanggapan kung ano pa ang maaring maitulong bukod sa imprastraktura at social services. Ipinangako rin ng Senador na ginagawang prayoridad ng kanyang opisina ang anumang hiling para sa ikauunlad ng Cagayan. “Una po gusto kong malaman kung ano yung kailangan, kung ano yung mga proyekto at ayuda na kailangan sa Cagayan. Alam niyo naman po yung pamilya ng asawa ko, ang biyenan ko po ay dito sa Cagayan, gusto ko pong makasama ang mga Cagayano para malaman pa ang pangangailangan sa lahat, sa imprastraktura, sa social services para maasikaso ko sa national government pagbalik ko sa Senado. First priority lahat ng request ng Cagayan, yan ang commitment ko,” pahayag ng Senador. Upang maging premiere province aniya ang Cagayan, kanyang hiniling sa mga barangay officials na suportahan ang “One Cagayan” movement na isinusulong ng kanyang biyenan na si Ret. General Edgar “Manong Egay” Aglipay na may layuning pagkaisahin ang mga lider ng Cagayan para sa iisang adhikaing mapaunlad ang lalawigan. “Naniniwala po ako sa layunin ng One Cagayan movement led by my father-in-law; kaya po sana suportahan natin ang One Cagayan. Ang One Cagayan ang maghahatid ng tunay na kaunlaran. Ito na po ang pagkakataon nating magtrabaho upang maging premiere province muli ang Cagayan. Gusto ko lang sabihin sa inyo na ako po ay committed sa Cagayan. Mayroon na po kaming bahay dito ng asawa ko [Emelyn Aglipay-Villar]. Kung kailangan pabalik-balik, linggo-linggo ako dito sa Cagayan para siguraduhin na makakarating ang lahat ng tulong,” pahayag pa ng Senador. Si Senator Villar ay adopted son of Cagayan na siyang nasa likod ng itinayong Abusag bridge sa bayan ng Baggao at Camalanuigan-Aparri bridge noong siya pa ang kalihim ng Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Kaugnay rito, hinimok naman ni Gov. Mamba ang mga barangay official na maging instrumento sa tamang pagpili ng lider ngayong nalalapit na 2025 midterm election. Kanyang ipinabatid na kung kailangang maging partisan ay para doon sa mayroong mabuting intensyon at hindi sa pansariling interes. Ito rin aniya ang dahilan kung bakit pinili niya si “Manong Egay” na i-endorso upang maging susunod na Gobernador ng Cagayan. “Kaya si Manong Egay ang pinili ko; he knows the direction; he knows that there is hope for every Cagayano. I hope you see this. Kayo sa barangay huwag naman pera-pera lang. Hindi pwedeng sinosolo natin ito, kailangan natin si Villar, si Aglipay, hindi pwedeng sinosolo natin ito because we have bigger plans not for ourselves but for our children. Ngayon, let us be partisan for what is best,” paglalahad ng Gobernador. Muli rin niyang ibahagi ang kanyang pagnanais na muling maging tanyag ang Cagayan katulad noon. “Cagayan has always been the premiere province. Ang Aparri ay kilala na sa buong Pilipinas. We were the center of education, religion, of government but through the years nagsara ang ating port, kami na ang pinakamahirap because we are the farthest sa market, sa Manila. Papayag na ba tayo na ganito nalang tayo. Ito po ang pianglalaban natin, kulang po si Gov. Manuel Mamba. We could be better. Pakiusap ko lang let us be together, tama na yung presyo-presyo, let us plan out for the next generation,” pagtatapos ni Gov. Mamba. Samantala, personal namang nagpasalamat si Ret.General Aglipay sa kanyang manugang sa tulong na ibinaba sa Cagayan. Kanya ring tiniyak na sa pamamagitan ng kanyang “One Cagayan” ay mas lalo pang madarama ng mga Cagayano ang progreso. Dumalo rin sa distribusyon ang Unang Ginang ng lalawigan na si Atty. Mabel Villarica-Mamba, Provincial Administrator Atty. Maria Rosario Mamba-Villaflor, Mayor Maila Ting-Que, dating Congressman ng Tuguegarao na si Randy Ting, iba’t ibang alkalde at lokal na opisyal ng mga local government unit, kawani ng Provincial Office for People Empowerment (POPE), at DSWD.

By Badz Heralde   TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan — Pinarangalan ni Pangulong Ferdinand “BongBong” Marcos Jr. ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Cagayan kasabay ng naganap na selebrasyon ng Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Development Week na inorganisa ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) sa Malacañang Palace, Manila,noong Hulyo 10. Mismong si Governor Manuel Mamba, Engr. Pearlita Mabasa, Provincial Agriculturist. at En.P Jennifer Junio-Baquiran, Provincial Tourism Officer ang tumanggap sa parangal na iginawad ng Pangulo. Ang parangal na iginawad ay ang “Presidential Recognition for Outstanding Development Partners on Enhancing Management and Labor Capacities”. Ang pagkilala ay ibinibigay sa mga stakeholder sa kanilang natatanging kontribusyon sa pag-unlad ng ekonomiya sa pamamagitan ng pagtulong sa mga MSME. Kinilala ang PGC dahil sa matagumpay na pagkakatatag at operasyon ng Cagayan Farm School and Agri-Tourism Center sa Aquiray, Amulung, Cagayan na itinatag ni Gov. Mamba na may layuning mabigyan ng lugar ang mga magsasaka upang magsanay sa iba’t ibang makabagong teknolohiya at pamamaraan sa pagsasaka. Ito rin ang kauna-unahang Department of Tourism-Accredited Provincial LGU-owned farm site sa buong Rehiyon Dos. Sa ngayon, libo-libong mga magsasaka, miyembro ng mga organisasyon ng kababaihan, at kabataan ang nagsasanay sa mga iba’t ibang paggawa ng produkto na makakatulong sa kanila sa pagbuo ng maliliit na negosyo.

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya — Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito continues to champion innovative programs aimed at enhancing the livelihood of Novo Vizcayanos, with a special focus on the youth. The latest initiative, “Driver’s License Mo, Sagut ni Gayyem ti Umili,” is set to launch soon, offering substantial support to workers from the informal sector who seek to obtain non-professional driver’s licenses. The program, backed by an initial funding of P3.1 million, aims to assist 1,000 drivers annually from various municipalities within the province. It targets individuals who have already secured a student permit or a first-time license and need additional support to acquire a non-professional driver’s license, enabling them to use their driving skills as an additional source of income. “Driver’s License Mo, Sagut ni Gayyem ti Umili” will cover all costs associated with the practical driving course, a mandatory requirement for obtaining a driver’s license. Furthermore, the program will pay for the non-professional/professional license fee and the necessary medical certificate fee. Gambito highlighted the significance of the program, saying, “Our goal is to implement innovative solutions that directly improve the quality of life for our residents. By facilitating the acquisition of driver’s licenses for our informal sector workers, we are not only empowering them to earn additional income but also contributing to the economic vitality of our province.” He added, “This program is about more than just providing financial assistance; it’s about giving our people the tools they need to succeed. We are committed to creating opportunities that will help our residents build better futures for themselves and their families.” The Public Employment Service Division(PESD) of the Office of the Governor will manage the implementation of this program, ensuring that all eligible beneficiaries receive the support needed to complete the requirements for their driver’s licenses. “This initiative is a testament to our dedication to fostering an inclusive economy where everyone has a chance to thrive,” Governor Gambito continued. “We believe that by investing in our informal sector workers, we are laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and resilient community.” This initiative is part of Governor Gambito’s broader strategy to drive economic growth and elevate the standard of living for all residents of the province. As the program is rolled out, it is expected to have a profound impact on informal sector workers, offering them new opportunities for economic stability and advancement. By Rachel Magday

By Rachel Magday PGLU Nueva Vizcaya   In a proactive effort to bolster disaster preparedness among its residents, the provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya, under the leadership of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, has introduced a new program titled “Go Bag ti Umili.” This initiative aims to equip families vulnerable to natural disasters such as landslides, flash floods, and earthquakes with essential survival gear. The “Go Bag ti Umili” project will be spearheaded by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO). According to PDRRMO Officer King Webster Balawing, the provincial government has allocated a budget of 14 million pesos for this vital program. The initial phase will see 14,000 families receiving these life-saving Go Bags. “The Go Bag ti Umili is a comprehensive survival kit designed to provide immediate assistance during emergencies,” said Balawing. “Each Go Bag includes a non-electric and non-battery operated glow stick, a whistle, a rechargeable flashlight, and a first aid kit. Additionally, the bag itself can function as a flotation device, adding an extra layer of safety.” The procurement of the Go Bags is currently under review by the Bids and Awards Committee, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the acquisition process. Once the procurement process is completed, the distribution of the Go Bags will commence immediately, with priority given to families residing in high-risk areas. Prior to the distribution, recipients will be taught how to effectively use the Go Bag and its contents, ensuring they are well-prepared for any emergency situation. This initiative not only aims to provide immediate relief but also to instill a culture of preparedness and resilience among the community members. Governor Gambito highlighted the importance of readiness in disaster management. “Our administration is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of every family in Nueva Vizcaya. The Go Bag ti Umili is a crucial step in enhancing our disaster preparedness and response capabilities,” stated Gambito. “We believe that preparedness is the key to mitigating the impact of natural disasters. By equipping our residents with these Go Bags, we are empowering them to take proactive steps in safeguarding their lives and properties.” He further added, “This program underscores our dedication to building a resilient community. We are not just providing tools; we are fostering a mindset of readiness and self-reliance. I encourage all residents to actively participate and stay informed about disaster preparedness.   Future phases of the project are planned to extend the distribution of Go Bags to more families across the province.