By Rachel Magday

 

NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — Nueva Vizcaya Gov. Atty. Jose V. Gambito urged provincial government employees to sustain innovation, integrity and momentum in public service during the province’s first flag-raising ceremony and first working day of 2026, and reiterated that his primary aim is to improve the livelihoods of Novo Vizcayanos.

“Let us continue innovating on how the government is run while we have the opportunity. We have to set a standard in governance that will guide the next leaders of our province,” Gambito told department heads and provincial employees gathered for the ceremony. “We must take advantage of this opportunity to leave a mark for our people to remember us in the future.”

Fresh from a recent hospitalization, Gambito said the experience deepened his resolve: “I have no other aim but to improve the livelihood of our Novo Vizcayanos,” he added, vowing that his renewed commitment will drive the province’s programs and initiatives forward.

Gambito thanked department heads and staff for the province’s ongoing progress, noting that successes stem not only from awards and recognitions but also from innovative programs introduced under his administration.

“These programs are very responsive to the needs of our residents, making the provincial government very effective,” he said. “The credit is not mine — I hand it over to all of you, from top to bottom. All my gratitude. Be assured that your efforts will not remain unnoticed.”

The governor urged employees to remain honest and steadfast despite resource constraints. “We have to be truthful to our work. We have to make a difference. Even if we lack resources, you are all resourceful, so we can always find remedies,” he said. He warned against losing the province’s forward momentum, adding, “We should not allow our enthusiasm to die down—let us keep pushing for continuous progress for our constituents.”

The flag-raising ceremony was sponsored by the Philippine National Red Cross — Nueva Vizcaya Chapter (PNRC-NV). Randy Blanco, head of PNRC-NV, reported the chapter’s recent accomplishments, highlighting the “Dara ti Umili” program, which he said “does not only benefit Novo Vizcayanos but also residents of nearby provinces.” Blanco pledged continued coordination with the provincial government to extend services to vulnerable communities.