By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The Public Affairs and Information Assistance Division (PAIAD) of the provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya captured 2nd Place in the Huwarang Tanggapang Pang-Impormasyon (Provincial Category) at Gawad PAHAYAG 2025, hosted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 02. The awarding ceremony was held in Tuguegarao City, on Dec.13. PIA Region 02 honored partner agencies and outstanding individuals at Gawad PAHAYAG 2025 in recognition of their honest service, sustained support, and significant contributions to disseminating critical information—particularly on government programs for disaster response and other public needs. The awards underscore the role of information services in strengthening public awareness and building more resilient communities across the Cagayan Valley region, serving as a model of effective public service and cooperation. The recognition for PAIAD highlights the division’s consistent, orderly, and transparent delivery of accurate and timely public information. Headed by Community Affairs Officer King Webster Balawing and working under Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, PAIAD’s efforts contributed to improved public understanding of government initiatives and community preparedness. “Congratulations to PAIAD for this well‑deserved recognition,” said Governor Gambito. “Transparent, accurate, and timely public information is vital to good governance and community resilience. This award reaffirms our commitment to keep our people informed, engaged, and prepared.” Gawad PAHAYAG is the Philippine Information Agency’s annual program recognizing outstanding public information work across regional and provincial offices. It underscores the vital roles of transparency, civic engagement, and coordinated information dissemination—especially in times of crisis. PAIAD remains committed to upholding these standards as it continues to serve not only the province of Nueva Vizcaya but the entire Cagayan Valley.            

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya and the Board of Investments (BOI) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to strengthen partnership in promoting and facilitating investments and enhancing investor services across the province. The agreement, titled “Memorandum of Agreement on the Promotion and Facilitation of Investments and Investor Servicing,” was signed by Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito for the provincial government and Atty. Bobby G. Fondevilla, Executive Director of the Investment Assistance Center, BOI‑DTI, for the BOI. The signing was witnessed by Juditte Asuncion, Provincial Cooperative Affairs Officer, and Therese Sancho, Investment Specialist, Investment Assistance Center, BOI. Governor Gambito welcomed the MOA as a strategic milestone. “This partnership positions Nueva Vizcaya as an ideal investment destination. We offer a secure peace‑and‑order environment, a track record as a multi‑awarded province, and sustained economic growth. Our people — the Vizcayanos — are warm and hospitable, and that community spirit makes doing business here both productive and rewarding. With the BOI’s support, we will accelerate job creation, improve infrastructure, and ensure investments deliver tangible benefits to our communities.” Under the MOA, the provincial government and the BOI agreed to coordinate activities to attract new investors and support existing registered enterprises. Joint initiatives will include investment promotion seminars and missions, business‑matching events, and streamlined assistance for registration, permits, and licensing. To better market local opportunities, the provincial government will share new and updated local ordinances, an LGU investment and location profile, and a database of available lands and infrastructure. The BOI will provide promotional support, technical assistance to enhance local ease‑of‑doing‑business systems, and direct follow‑up on regulatory and registration matters. The agreement takes effect immediately and remains in force unless amended, revoked, or terminated. Next steps include developing a joint calendar of promotional activities, compiling the province’s investment profile, and operationalizing referral and follow‑up mechanisms for prospective and existing investors.  

ISABELA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Isabela, in partnership with the provincial government, launched the first-ever “RISE UP Isabela: Reinforcing Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement for Unified Partnership” program on December 9, 2025 at the Capitol Amphitheater. The event brought together Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, transparency, and active participation in local governance. DILG Isabela Provincial Director Engr. Corazon D. Toribio highlighted the initiative as the first of its kind in the province, designed to empower CSOs to play an active role in local development. “It’s high time that all CSOs and partners know their responsibilities, what they can offer to the government, and how they can actively contribute to development in their municipalities, cities, and the province as a whole,” Toribio said. She urged CSOs to attend meetings regularly, validate government projects, and ensure accountability and transparency in local programs. Toribio also emphasized that third-party monitoring by CSOs ensures that no “ghost projects” exist in DILG initiatives. “You are essential partners of our country to ensure people-centered development”, she added. RISE UP Isabela seeks to equip CSOs with the knowledge and skills to become effective members of local special bodies, clarify their responsibilities and accountabilities, and foster equitable participation in decision-making. The program was divided into three modules: Local Development Council, led by EnP Maria Elena J. Sumisim; Local Health Board, presented by LGOO III Christi Anna F. Cielo and LGOO VII Karla Bernadette A. Rollan; and Local School Board, led by Mr. Romeo T. Fragata, Dr. Dante M. Aquino, and LGOO VII Cristina B. Somera. Sessions covered council operations, local health governance, and school board management, including oversight of special education funds. The initiative aligns with DILG MC No. 2025-060 Section 4.6, which provides guidelines on CSO accreditation and the reconstitution of Local Special Bodies (LSBs).  

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines –The provincial government’s Environmental Awareness and Education Month celebration culminated in an awarding ceremony led by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENARO) at the Carlos M. Padilla Convention Center on December 4,2025. This year’s observance carried the theme “Kalikasan ay Buhay, Ating Mahalin, Hamon ng Klima Sama-samang Harapin”. 𝐄𝐜𝐨-𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐲 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬 In the Search for “Makakalikasang Barangay,” Barangay Malabing of Kasibu was declared champion in the upland category and received a cash prize of ₱50,000. Barangay Canabuan in Aritao placed first runner-up with ₱40,000, while Barangay Busilac in Bayombong took third place and received ₱30,000. In the lowland category, Barangay Poblacion of Villaverde was named champion and awarded ₱50,000. Barangay Poblacion of Kasibu placed first runner-up, and Barangay Gabut of Dupax del Sur was second runner-up, receiving ₱40,000 and ₱30,000 respectively. 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 For the “Pasiklaban sa Proyektong Makalikasan” competition, which featured various secondary schools across the province, Dippog National High School of Quezon took first place for its “Project MRF-Care” (Materials Recovery Facility for Campus Action and Responsible Ecology) and received ₱30,000. Sta. Fe National High School placed second with its “Plasti-Bric: Converting Plastic Waste into Sustainable Construction Eco-Brix” project and received ₱20,000. Bintawan National High School secured third place and a ₱10,000 prize for its “Plastic KaBag” or Plastic Litter Alleviation Through Sustainable Thermo-forming and Innovation for Climate Action: Kalingang Bag Against Waste. 𝐒𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐰𝐢𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐬𝐚 𝐊𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐬𝐚𝐧 In the “Sayawit para sa Kalikasan” competition, Nueva Vizcaya General Comprehensive High School (NVGCHS) emerged champion and received a ₱30,000 cash prize. Muirwoods Academy Inc. placed first runner-up with a ₱20,000 prize, while Bagabag National High School finished as second runner-up and received ₱10,000. Consolation prize winners in all three competitions each received ₱5,000. 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡-𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 According to Acting Environment and Natural Resources( ENR) Officer Forester Arlene S. Tarranco, the month-long celebration also included synchronized tree planting activities, a “pulot basura” clean-up drive, and an environmental symposium on climate change. Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, in his message during the program, urged united action in the face of the climate crisis. “Let us face the climate change with unity, courage and hope. When we act together, small steps become powerful solutions. Protecting nature is protecting life itself,” Gambito said.

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The entire province of Nueva Vizcaya has been placed under a state of calamity following the widespread devastation caused by Super Typhoon “Uwan” (international name: Fung‑Wong), which left more than P3 billion worth of damage to agriculture and infrastructure across the province. In Resolution No. 2025‑5998, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan formally declared the state of calamity, enabling the provincial and municipal local governments to hasten emergency response, recovery, and rehabilitation efforts. The measure, sponsored by Hon. Eunice Galima‑Gambol, was unanimously approved by the Provincial Board. It cites as legal bases the recommendation of the Nueva Vizcaya Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Memorandum Order No. 60 and Presidential Proclamation No. 1077 , which placed the entire country under a national state of calamity. Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito welcomed the declaration and underscored its importance despite the existing nationwide state of calamity. “While the entire country is already under a national state of calamity, it is still necessary for Nueva Vizcaya to be placed under a provincial state of calamity,” Governor Gambito explained. “A local declaration gives us the legal basis to fully utilize our provincial and municipal calamity funds, implement price controls, and fast‑track rehabilitation projects specifically tailored to the needs of our communities.” He also expressed his gratitude to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for its swift action. “I sincerely thank our Sangguniang Panlalawigan for acting promptly on this urgent situation,” the governor said. “This declaration is crucial to fast‑track rehabilitation projects and support long‑term recovery across the province.” Under the declaration, provincial and municipal governments can speed up recovery and repair efforts, use the Quick Response Fund and other standby funds, ask for additional assistance from national agencies and nearby provinces and towns, and enforce price controls to keep the prices of basic goods and services stable in affected areas. The Provincial Board said the move is intended to sustain relief efforts already undertaken, stabilize essential services, and support medium- and long-term rehabilitation across all affected communities in Nueva Vizcaya.  

  Showcases Province as ‘Heart of Farm Tourism in the North’ By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines – The provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya led by Gov Atty Jose V Gambito will hold the 2025 Agritourism Festival on December 5–7 at Solano Heroes Park in Solano, through the Provincial Tourism and Culture Office in partnership with the Nueva Vizcaya Farm Tourism Stakeholders Association (NVFTSA). Provincial Tourism Officer Marichelle O. Costales said the festival will showcase agritourism exhibits and learning sessions, fresh farm products and local delicacies, as well as creative booths featuring local entrepreneurs and their “Made in Vizcaya” products. Costales said the festival aims to go beyond a traditional celebration by promoting a deeper appreciation of agriculture and sustainable travel. “The festival is more than just a celebration; it’s a movement that connects people back to the land, honors the farmers and inspires sustainable tourism that nurtures both nature and the community,” she said. “Let us celebrate the beauty of our province and support the growing agritourism movement that makes Nueva Vizcaya truly the heart of farm tourism in the North,” Costales added. Gov. Gambito expressed full support for the activity, saying the festival affirms the province’s commitment to its farmers and countryside development. “This agritourism festival is our tribute to the hands that feed us and the land that sustains us. By opening our farms to visitors, we are creating new opportunities for our communities while showcasing Nueva Vizcaya as a premier destination for sustainable, farm-based tourism in Northern Luzon,” Gambito said.    

By Rachel Magday NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of Nueva Vizcaya was named Champion of Digital Governance at the Partner Summit 2025 of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on November 25 at Cagayan State University here. The summit, organized by the DICT’s ICT Literacy and Competency Development Bureau, carried the theme “Walang Iwanan sa Digital Bayanihan” and brought together government leaders, industry partners, and academic institutions to boost collaboration for digital literacy and ICT competency nationwide. The Champion of Digital Governance Award recognizes local governments that show strong leadership and support for ICT programs that drive digital transformation and inclusive development. Criteria include the number of ICT projects done with DICT, funding and resources provided for ICT, creation or support of ICT offices, participation of local officials in trainings, and the impact of these efforts on community digital inclusion, such as residents trained and digital centers established. Nueva Vizcaya was cited for its sustained partnership with DICT, according to Provincial Information and Technology Division (PITD) chief Sherlyn B. Fernandez, through continued collaboration in the implementation of the Free Wi‑Fi ti Umili program that complements the national Free Wi‑Fi for All initiative, support for the rollout of ICT training programs and provincial capacity‑building activities, and the provision of training venues, equipment, and other ICT requirements for the conduct of ICT‑related activities in the province. Fernandez, who heads the PITD, received the award on behalf of the Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya. Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito thanked the DICT for the recognition, saying it affirms the province’s commitment to digital inclusion. “We are deeply honored to be recognized by the DICT as Champion of Digital Governance. This award is a testament to the hard work of our provincial team and our strong partnership with DICT in bringing digital services and opportunities closer to every Novo Vizcayano. We thank the DICT for its unwavering support, and we will continue to invest in ICT programs so that no one in our communities is left behind in the digital age,” Governor Gambito said.  

By Victor Martin   BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines – The FCF Minerals Corporation, a British-owned mining company, based in Runruno, Quezon in Nueva Vizcaya, won its fourth consecutive Presidential Mineral Industry Environmental Award (PMIEA) during the 71st Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference (ANMSEC) held last Friday (22Nov) Camp John Hay in Baguio City. Lorne Harvey, FCF General Manager for Operations, and Lawyer Rowena Marcos, Legal and Compliance Manager, accepted the PMIEA award, during the awards night and testimonial dinner held at Camp-John Hay Trade and Cultural Center. Harvey said aside from the PMIEA, the highest award conferred by the Philippine Mine Safety and Environmental Association (PMSEA), FCF Minerals was also declared 1st runner-up in Best Practices in Minerals Processing-Metallic Category during the 4th ASEAN Minerals Awards held in Vientiane, Laos last month. In his message, Harvey expressed his heartfelt gratitude specially to the people of Barangay Runruno, personnel of MGB-R02 and all FCF employees. “These awards are for the men and women in our Runruno mine operation. We would not have achieved this recognition for the 4th consecutive year without their tireless dedication to excellence,” Harvey said. The PMIEA is given to mining companies that demonstrated outstanding performance in environmental management, occupational health and safety, and corporate social responsibility. Joshua Ambojnon, FCF Safety Officer, also received his award for winning the Best Safety Inspector for Plant Category. Harvey said the awards bestowed to FCF Minerals institutionalized the company’s zeal to go further towards outstanding levels of dedication and innovation in mining, enhancing the lives of their community while protecting and nurturing the environment. “I would also like to make mention of the support of our community as well as our local leaders and the work that they do in conjunction with our staff to enhance the lives of our local population. Without the support of our community, we as a business would not meet the success we have today,” Harvey added. Harvey said the FCF Minerals is also strongly committed as ever to working closely with its many stakeholder groups to continue providing significant benefits and leaving a positive and long legacy. Meanwhile, the FCF Emergency Response Team (ERT) also clinched second place in the First Aid Competition held at the Melvin Jones Grandstand. The ERT also demonstrated their exceptional skills across multiple challenges which includes the Fire Brigade Competition, Fire Extinguishment Event and Tug of Peace Challenge. A local subsidiary of London based Metals Exploration, FCF Minerals has an existing financial and technical assistance agreement (FTAA) with the government to undertake the Runruno Gold-Molybdenum Project in Runruno village in Quezon town here. The project has been endorsed by the provincial board, the host town of Quezon, as well as the barangay council in 2011 and started its commercial operation in 2017 after more than a decade of exploration and construction.  

By Rachel Magday   NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito on Monday, November 24, led the blessing of 11 newly procured heavy equipment units for the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU). The short rite, held immediately after the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony, was attended by provincial officials and department heads. Provincial Engineer Jerry A. Tan reported that the new units consist of: • 4 units – 4×2 Hino 500-series dump trucksWinning bid total: ₱23,980,000 • 1 unit – Develon DL250-7M wheel loader- ₱13,998,000 • 2 units – SDLG G9165F graders-₱21,990,000 • 2 units – Volvo EW145B Prime wheel-type excavators-₱26,990,000 • 1 unit – UD Truck Quester CWE 410 self-loading unit-₱17,995,000 • 1 unit – Shantui SD22Z crawler-type bulldozer-₱18,998,000 Gov. Gambito said the acquisition will significantly boost the province’s capability in road construction and maintenance, disaster response, and other public works operations. The blessing, held right after the flag ceremony, was meant to dedicate the units to public service and to pray for the safety of all personnel who will operate them in the years ahead.