By Rachel Magday   SOLANO, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines — Police authorities arrested 26 individuals during an operation against illegal online cockfighting, or e-sabong, at the Solano Cockpit Arena in Barangay Roxas on April 12, 2026. Police identified several of those arrested as online livestream operators and a cockpit arena supervisor. The suspects included residents of Nueva Ecija, Baguio City, and Solano, Nueva Vizcaya. The operation was launched following reports of illegal gambling activities in the area and was led by the Solano Police Station under PMAJ John Anthony S. Sanchez, in coordination with several police and intelligence units. Investigators said the group is also being linked to a similar illegal e-sabong operation at New Ayaga Cockpit Arena in Abulug, Cagayan on April 11, 2026. The reported connection is now under investigation as part of the case build-up. Seized during the operation were ₱616,250 in cash believed to be betting money, betting tickets and receipts, three computer sets, five cellphones, four internet routers, two LED monitors, and other equipment allegedly used in the illegal activity. The suspects are now in the custody of the Solano Police Station and are expected to face charges for violating Presidential Decree No. 1602 and Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012            

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The total market value of real properties in Nueva Vizcaya rose to P155.89 billion in 2025, with 290,657 registered properties boosting the province’s revenue base, according to the Provincial Assessment Office. Gov. Atty. Jose V. Gambito said the increase signals steady growth and growing investor and public confidence. “The increasing value of real properties in Nueva Vizcaya reflects the province’s steady growth and the rising confidence of our people and investors. More importantly, it strengthens our capacity to deliver better services through a fair and transparent real property assessment system,” he said. Acting Provincial Assessor Salvador G. Aquino said projected real property tax collections for 2025 reached P299.18 million, highlighting the importance of property-based revenues for provincial services. Office records showed 13,090 assessment-related documents — including tax declarations, certified true copies, and property certificates — were issued in 2025, generating P1.09 million in fees. The office also approved 8,897 new tax declarations for subdivisions, transfers and improvements, yielding P1.03 million in transfer tax collections. Aquino said updating the Schedule of Market Values (SMV) remains a top priority. The proposed 2027 SMV has been posted on bulletin boards, social media and the provincial website in compliance with Republic Act No. 12001. Public consultations are scheduled for April 7 and 13, 2026, with business groups, property owners, farmers, local governments and revenue offices invited to attend. The Provincial Assessment Office and the Provincial Treasury are preparing a Real Property Tax Compliance and Impact Study for the Department of Finance’s approval. The study will review taxpayer compliance, revenue implications and possible socioeconomic effects, and its findings will help the Sangguniang Panlalawigan set assessment levels. Aquino said the province is also preparing for a general revision of real property assessments in 2027 to keep valuations current and aligned with market conditions. Aquino, also reported that province ranked first in Cagayan Valley in real property tax collection efficiency and total locally sourced revenues. He announced the recognition during Monday’s flag-raising ceremony, saying the province also placed third in the growth of assessed property values from 2020 to 2024 and in overall local revenues. Aquino said Nueva Vizcaya ranked second in the timely and accurate submission of real property assessment reports, including for the first quarter of 2024, before rising to first in the second, third and fourth quarters. The province also received recognition for its Outstanding Focal Persons for fiscal year 2024. “These achievements reflect our sustained efforts to strengthen database management, improve assessment services, and uphold the integrity of our property records,” Aquino said. Gambito said the awards underscore the contribution of assessment personnel to the province’s revenue generation and public service delivery. “These recognitions are a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our assessment personnel. Their work directly contributes to strengthening our revenue base, which in turn allows us to deliver better services and programs to our people,” Gambito said. He said the provincial government remains committed to transparency, efficiency and innovation in governance.

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya is seeking technical assistance from Catalyste+ for the sustainable development of Bagabag Airport, a priority initiative of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito aimed at boosting tourism, improving connectivity, and spurring economic growth in the province. The request was presented by Provincial Tourism and Culture Officer Marichelle O. Costales during a recent meeting with representatives of Global Affairs Canada, the Embassy of Canada, and Catalyste+. Among those present were Mourad Graidia of Global Affairs Canada; Simon Snoxell of the Embassy of Canada; Jane Imai, senior program manager for Asia at Catalyste+ International Services; and Yen Ton, monitoring, evaluation and learning officer for Vietnam and the Philippines. Costales said the province is seeking support for a viability assessment and the preparation of an investment concept for the airport project, as well as an investor and commercial partner engagement strategy. She said the provincial government aims to attract aviation schools, tourism-related enterprises, food and beverage operators, logistics providers, and other businesses compatible with airport operations. Judith Asuncion, head of the Provincial Cooperative and Enterprise Development Office (PROCEDE), said the proposal has already been recommended for approval by Catalyste+ Philippines and forwarded to the organization’s main office in Canada for final review. PROCEDE is the provincial government’s lead office in coordinating Catalyste+-supported projects in Nueva Vizcaya. Gambito said the activation of Bagabag Airport remains one of his administration’s key priorities. “The activation of Bagabag Airport is one of our key priorities because it will not only boost tourism in Nueva Vizcaya, but also help drive the local economy, create more opportunities for our people, and improve connectivity not only in Cagayan Valley but even to neigboring regions”, the governor said. He also thanked Catalyste+ for its continued support for the province’s development initiatives. Catalyste+ has been a long-time partner of the Nueva Vizcaya provincial government. Among their joint undertakings is the province’s designation as the sole provincial pilot area for Catalyste+’s three-year iLEAD program from 2026 to 2028. The program includes the establishment of an information technology hub, food security and climate-smart agriculture interventions, and strengthened engagement with civil society organizations. Catalyste+ also provided technical assistance for the feasibility study of the provincial government’s proposed rice processing center, another flagship initiative now being pursued by the province. Funded by Global Affairs Canada, Catalyste+ provides technical assistance, capacity building, and investment facilitation to support private sector-led and inclusive economic growth in partner countries. Its services include market assessments, project development, and stakeholder engagement.      

By Rachel Magday   SOLANO, Nueva Vizcaya — The provincial government honored outstanding youth programs and films promoting adolescent health during the Pammadayaw Excellence Awards for CineKabataan and the Information and Service Delivery Network (ISDN) on March 26 at the Highlander Hotel. The event, organized by the Population Division in partnership with the Public Affairs Infornation and Assistance Division(PAIAD) under the Office of the Governor, was attended by Ms. Theresa C. Soriano, regional director of the Cagayan Valley Commission on Population and Development; former governor Ruth R. Padilla; Board Members LC L. Cuaresma and Emerlene Jane Galanta Martinez; and Alvin Paul G. Basco , consultant to the Office of the Governor, who represented Gov. Atty. Jose V. Gambito. Gambito, who provided more than half a million pesos in funding for the initiative and awards, said, “When we empower our youth with the right information, support, and opportunities, we help them build a healthier and brighter future.” In the CineKabataan Makaindag filmmaking contest, The Frontier Film Production of PLT College Inc. swept major honors, taking Best Film, Best Picture, Best Cinematography, Best Screenplay and Best Advocacy Film. Toni Faye Duerme was named Best Director; Jeremiah Beniña and Rachelle Bongol won Best Actor and Best Actress. “Tinig Arkitektura” of Saint Mary’s University received the Best Social Impact Award. The contest, themed “Choices and Consequences,” is part of the MAKAINDAG project — a Gaddang phrase meaning “It Can Wait” — which promotes responsible decision-making and addresses teenage pregnancy. In the ISDN awards, Villaverde was named Best ISDN for Adolescent Health and Development while the towns of Quezon Kayapa, Aritao, Diadi and Bayombong were recognized for Most Innovative and Functional ISDNs. Alfonso Castañeda, Ambaguio, Bagabag, Bambang, Dupax del Norte, Dupax del Sur, Kasibu, Santa Fe and Solano were cited for maintaining Functional ISDNs. Fifteen municipal local government units participated in the assessment of Teen Centers, designated safe spaces that provide adolescents with health services, information and support. Elvira Tongson, head of the Provincial Population Division, said teenage pregnancy remains a serious public health and social concern in underserved communities, driven by limited access to accurate reproductive health information, cultural taboos and the lack of youth-friendly platforms. She added that MAKAINDAG and stronger ISDNs aim to help adolescents make informed choices, stay focused on education and personal growth, and delay early pregnancy.

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines – Nueva Vizcaya reopened its skies to paragliding on Friday, April 3, with the launch of the “Skyridge” take-off site in Barangay Tiblac, Ambaguio, ending a two-year lull in organized flying activities. The event, dubbed the “Grand Re-Awakening,” formally revived paragliding operations in the province and signaled its renewed push as an adventure tourism destination. Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito led the inauguration rites alongside Department of Tourism Regional Director Troy Alexander G. Miano, Ambaguio Mayor Ronelio B. Danao, and paragliding pioneer Violet Lucasi. The Skyridge site will host organized flights and competitions, with landing designated at Green Lake View Adventure Park in Barangay Masoc, Bayombong. Lucasi said activities lined up for the reopening include the Skymazing Race, a solo flight competition, tandem flights, and a target-landing contest. Pilots from South Korea, Indonesia, and Germany joined the event, highlighting its growing international appeal. Governor Gambito said the relaunch is expected to boost local tourism, create economic opportunities for hospitality and outdoor recreation enterprises, and expand Nueva Vizcaya’s reach among both domestic and international adventure travelers. He added that establishing a paragliding pilot school in the province is a priority initiative under his administration. The program aims to develop local talent, professionalize training, and strengthen safety standards as Nueva Vizcaya builds its air sports industry.

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The 2026 Grand Ammungan Festival (GAF), the annual founding anniversary celebration of the province, will be compressed into a one-day event from its original five-day schedule, in line with a belt-tightening directive from Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, as the provincial government moves to conserve funds and redirect savings into financial assistance for sectors severely affected by the ongoing fuel price crisis linked to global tensions in the Middle East. Festival Director General Eunice Galima -Gambol said the decision reflects a broader austerity program aimed at ensuring that public resources are used prudently while addressing the immediate needs of Novo Vizcayanos grappling with rising costs of basic commodities and transportation. Originally scheduled from May 20 to 25, the Grand Ammungan Festival was set to feature major crowd-drawing events such as the Travel and Tourism Expo, the Saniata ti Nueva Vizcaya pageant, Street Dancing Competition and a grand concert. The downsizing marks a significant shift in what has traditionally been one of the province’s biggest annual celebrations. In her official statement, Gambol underscored that the move was reached after careful deliberation and anchored on principles of unity, prudence, and fiscal discipline. “This will be a modest but meaningful celebration to commemorate the history and spirit of our great province,” she said, noting that her role as a public servant compels her to prioritize the welfare of the people over festivities. She added that resources saved from the scaled-down event would be channeled to critical programs and aid initiatives, particularly for vulnerable sectors bearing the brunt of the economic strain. While the announcement confirms the shift to a one-day observance of the province’s foundation anniversary, Gambol did not specify which activities from the original lineup will be retained or adapted for the condensed program. Despite the scaled-down celebration, Gambol assured the public that the essence of the Grand Ammungan Festival—honoring the rich cultural heritage and unity of Nueva Vizcaya—will remain at the forefront. Gambol also called on residents to remain resilient and united as the province navigates the challenges posed by global economic pressures.

Gov.Gambito warns of ‘Worst-Case Scenario’ By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines -‘ Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has ordered stricter austerity measures across the provincial government, warning of a potential “worst-case scenario” as surging fuel prices continue to strain the economy amid tensions in the Middle East. The directive came during an emergency meeting convened Monday with department heads to map out additional interventions to mitigate the deepening impact of the crisis on both government operations and vulnerable communities. Gambito called for disciplined spending and forward planning, urging officials to brace for prolonged economic strain. “Let us assume that we are moving toward a situation of scarcity. To sustain ourselves, we must save so that we have resources when they are most needed,” he said, stressing that the scenario, while extreme, remains possible if geopolitical tensions persist. Savings generated from the intensified austerity program, he said, will be redirected to fund financial assistance for vulnerable sectors, particularly those still recovering from recent calamities. “Many of our farmers are only beginning to recover from the effects of recent typhoons. Now they are confronted with another crisis,” the governor added. As part of intensified cost-cutting efforts, the provincial government is eyeing the suspension of non-essential programs, projects, and activities (PPAs), particularly those that can be deferred without compromising the office performance. These include capability-building initiatives and certain infrastructure projects that may be implemented in phases. From these measures, the province expects to generate savings, including an estimated ₱5 million specifically from the temporary suspension of capability-building activities. The provincial government is also considering scaling down the Grand Ammungan Festival, with proposals to shorten the celebration from five days to a single-day event. The festival has an allocated budget of ₱15 million, part of which could be realigned under the austerity program. Meanwhile, potential savings of around ₱5 million are being eyed from the temporary suspension of selected capability-building programs Earlier, the provincial government implemented a four-day workweek as an initial austerity measure. Meanwhile, financial assistance for the transport sector is currently being processed, with the provincial government allocating ₱18 million for the program. Additional support initiatives are also underway. The “Bagas ti Umili” program, with a budget of ₱17.2 million, is set to be rolled out next month. This is on top of the ₱80-million rice subsidy program funded by the national government and implemented at the provincial level. Support for the agriculture sector will also continue through the provision of agricultural inputs and seed subsidies. “Our people must feel that in the midst of this crisis, there is a government that genuinely cares for them”, Gov Gambito said. “We are dealing with a a very serious problem that affects everyone—perhaps even more severe than COVID-19. By providing assistance, we aim to restore the purchasing power of our citizens and help revive the local economy”.

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — Farmers in Nueva Vizcaya may soon be able to supply their produce directly to institutional buyers in Metro Manila under a proposed partnership between the provincial government and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The initiative was presented during a courtesy call at the office of Gov. Atty. Jose V. Gambito by officials of the DTI Supply Chain and Logistics Group (DTI-SCLG), led by Undersecretary Jean Pacheco, along with agri-partner Mayani headed by chief executive officer JT Solis, Agro-DigitalPH chief executive officer Henry James Sison, and representatives from FAST Logistics. The proposal seeks to improve market access for farmers by allowing them to sell directly to supermarkets and other institutional buyers, cutting post-harvest losses and reducing reliance on middlemen. Also included in the plan is a smart farming platform that would guide planting and harvesting schedules. The system will be implemented in coordination with the Provincial Agriculturist to support data-driven planning and better match farm output with market demand. Under the proposed arrangement, harvested produce would be brought to e-fulfillment centers for processing, packaging and distribution at fair prices. The initiative adopts an integrated and circular approach to agricultural production, promoting efficient use of inputs while converting byproducts into compost fertilizer to support sustainability and minimize waste. The project also includes Mayani’s “Grand Bagsakan Walang Sayang” initiative, the establishment of cold storage facilities, and digitalized systems aimed at strengthening the supply chain and improving logistics. Gambito expressed support for the proposal, saying it could expand market opportunities for farmers, raise their incomes and lessen risks in production and marketing. “As long as it is for the benefit of our farmers, I am always supportive of programs like this. This initiative can open more market opportunities for them, help increase their income, and reduce the risks they face in production and marketing,” he said. The partnership is expected to provide Nueva Vizcaya farmers with a more stable and efficient route for bringing their products to major buyers in the capital.

By Rachel Magday NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines —The Joint Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JRTF-ELCAC) in Region 2 has formally declared Cagayan Valley “insurgency-free” and placed it under a State of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SSIPS). The declaration was approved through a resolution during the task force’s full council meeting on March 24, 2026, held at Ammungan Hall and hosted by the provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya. Cagayan Governor Edgar B. Aglipay, chair of the JRTF-ELCAC Regional Council, presided over the meeting. The resolution cited sustained and coordinated efforts among national government agencies, security forces, local government units, and communities as key to achieving the milestone, following the government’s whole-of-nation approach to ending insurgency. Through the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC), coordinated measures were carried out not only to address security concerns but also to deliver services, infrastructure, and livelihood programs to communities previously affected by conflict. Before the regional declaration, the province of Nueva Vizcaya had already been declared an insurgency-free province in 2023 under the leadership of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito. Gambito said the regional declaration is expected to open more opportunities for growth and development across Cagayan Valley, citing Nueva Vizcaya’s experience after it was declared insurgency-free. “Our experience in Nueva Vizcaya showed that peace and security create a strong foundation for development. After the province was declared insurgency-free in 2023, we saw increased investor confidence, more business opportunities, and stronger economic activity,” Gambito said. “With the entire Cagayan Valley now declared insurgency-free, we expect these benefits to be felt across the region. This will encourage more investments, improve livelihood opportunities, boost tourism, and further accelerate progress in the region”, Gambito added.