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.

By Rachel Magday PGLU Nueva Vizcaya   BAYOMBONG,Nueva Vizcaya — “A very stable peace and order will spell a vibrant economy,” declared Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito during a recent dialogue and meeting held with representatives from universities, colleges, secondary and vocational schools.   The event was an offshoot of a resolution passed during a recent tripartite meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC), and the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). The primary focus of the dialogue was to devise strategies to prevent the recruitment activities of Communist terrorist groups, which often target schools and students. Governor Gambito stressed the importance of a collaborative approach between the government and educational institutions to safeguard the youth and maintain peace and order within the province. “Educational institutions play a crucial role in shaping the minds of our youth. It is imperative that we work together to ensure their safety and prevent any form of radicalization or recruitment by these groups,” said Governor Gambito.   The meeting brought together key stakeholders from various educational sectors, fostering a united front against the threats posed by Communist terrorist groups. Discussions centered around creating awareness programs, enhancing security measures within school premises, and promoting values that counter extremist ideologies. The resolution passed during the tripartite meeting underscores the province’s dedication to maintaining peace and order as a foundation for economic prosperity. By addressing the root causes of recruitment and strengthening community resilience, the provincial government aims to create a secure environment conducive to economic development. Governor Gambito also highlighted that ever since the province was declared an insurgency-free province, numerous local and foreign investors have approached his office to signify their interest in doing business in Nueva Vizcaya.   This influx of potential investments is a testament to the positive impact of peace and order on the province’s economic landscape. In addition, Governor Gambito informed everyone of his flagship projects, such as the “Kalsada ti Kabanbantayan,” the beautification of the provincial capitol, the promotion of renewable energy in establishments within the capitol grounds, the “Free WiFi ti Umili” initiative, and the implementation of solar-powered irrigation systems for the agriculture sector. According to Gambito, through these programs, he demonstrates his commitment to improving the livelihoods of the poor, especially those in mountainous areas. By showing that the provincial government does not neglect them, these initiatives help prevent them from being easily recruited by Communist groups.   Gambito also took pride in Nueva Vizcaya’s leading position in terms of economic growth, attributing this success to the province’s stable peace and order situation and the effective implementation of his flagship programs. The dialogue concluded with participants signing a pledge of commitment to remain vigilant against all forms of security threats to keep Nueva Vizcaya insurgency-free. This collective commitment marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and prosperity of the province

By Victor Martin BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya- A total of 22 children born with cleft lips and cleft palates benefited from free surgeries provided by the Philippine Band of Mercy (PBM) at the Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Hospital  (NVPH) in Bambang town here on June 22. Organized by the Rotary Club of Bayombong Capital and the Lumabang Shriners,  the activity led by PBM’s Plastic Surgeon Dr. Mel Anthony Cruz spearheaded the surgeries on the patients who were screened last June 13. Gerald Gamboa, president of the Rotary Club of Bayombong Capital said the registration through online was conducted on May 8 to June 13 before its final final screening on June 21 at the NVPH’s out-patient department. Gamboa said three of the 22 patients, who came from as far as Apayao, Ifugao and Isabela provinces are under one-year-old,  while the oldest is a 30-year-old from Bambang town here. “Our goal is to help and bring joy to the children with cleft deformities, especially those who are from underprivileged families,” Gamboa said. Medicines and food were also provided to the patients and their families. Gamboa expressed his gratitude to the medical team, as well as the personnel of the NVPH for the collaboration in conducting life-changing event to the children and their families.

By Rachel Magday   NUVA VIZCAYA — In a significant move to combat the adverse effects of climate change and reduce high electricity consumption, the provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya, under the leadership of Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito, is transitioning from traditional energy sources to renewable energy. This initiative will see the installation of solar panels on two major buildings: the Carlos M. Padilla Convention Center(NV Convention Center) and the Patricio G. Dumlao Executive Building(Provincial Capitol Main Bldg). The provincial government has allocated P51 million for this groundbreaking project. According to Provincial Planning and Development Officer Engr. Edgardo Sabado, this transition to renewable energy is expected to yield substantial financial benefits. “With the shift from traditional energy sources to renewable energy, the provincial government anticipates annual savings of 10 to 11 million pesos,” Engr.Sabado stated. Acting Provincial General Services Office (PGSO) head Kathleen Marcelo provided additional context on the province’s current energy consumption. “The monthly electric consumption of the provincial capitol is around P2.8 million and this figure is exclusive of other facilities managed by the province, such as hospitals, which consume an additional P1.2 million per month,” Marcelo explained. Beyond the renewable energy initiatives at the provincial capitol, the provincial government is also prioritizing sustainable agricultural practices. The “Padanum ti Umili” project, a solar-powered irrigation system aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, is being implemented in the municipalities of Villaverde and Quezon, as well as the demo farm of the Provincial Agriculture Office at Sitio Polloc, Brgy. Roxas Solano. The province has allocated P14 million for the first phase of this project. The project aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change by reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy solutions. Governor Gambito emphasized the importance of these initiatives, noting that they not only address environmental concerns but also demonstrate fiscal responsibility. “These projects are a testament to our commitment to sustainable development and prudent financial management. By investing in renewable energy, we are securing a greener future for Nueva Vizcaya while also ensuring significant cost savings. Our province is leading the way with several innovative initiatives in public service that I have introduced, and I am committed to ensuring that Nueva Vizcaya remains at the forefront of these advancements,” Governor Gambito remarked. The installation of solar panels is set to commence soon, while the implementation of the solar irrigation system is almost 100% complete. These efforts mark pivotal moments in the province’s journey towards sustainability. By setting a strong example, these initiatives pave the way for other local government units to follow, demonstrating that renewable energy can be a practical and advantageous alternative to traditional energy sources. As the world grapples with the challenges posed by climate change, Governor Gambito’s proactive approach serves as an inspiring example of how local governments can lead the way in environmental stewardship and energy efficiency

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan – Inilatag ng grupo ng Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) ang planong flood control project sa Cagayan River Basin kay Gov. Manuel Mamba at mga department head ng Kapitolyo ng Cagayan sa tanggapan ng Gobernador sa Capitol Main building, Tuguegarao City, noong Hunyo 18, 2024. Ang presentasyon ay pinangunahan ng deputy team leader Daisuke Fujita, kasama sina Nguyen Xuan Tinh,hydrologist at Reynel Mojica, project researcher  at mga opisyal ng Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Ang proyektong iprinisinta ay tinawag na “Project for Enhancement of Flood Control Strategy in Prioritized River Basins (Cagayan River Basin)” kung saan nakapaloob dito ang gagawing hakbang sa pagpapatupad ng poyekto katulad ng timeline, sino ang mga makakatuwang na mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan, project components at mga aspeto na kailangang ikonsidera katulad ng usapin sa Magat dam, water management at flood characteristics. Ayon kay Fujita, ang unang gagawin ng grupo ay magsagawa ng feasibility study (FS) hanggang sa buwan ng Oktubre sa 2025. Sa ngayon, nasa basic survey pa lamang ang grupo sa gagawing proyekto. Sinabi naman ni Gov. Mamba na dapat ay mayroong mabuong “super body” na kinabibilangan ng mga concerned agency, hindi lamang ang JICA o DPWH sa halip ay maging ang mga iba pang ahensiya katulad ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), mga lokal na Pamahalaan ng Kalinga at Apayao, pamunuan ng Magat Dam, at iba pa. Aniya, hindi isang “band-aid solution” lamang ang gagawin sa halip ay dapat mayroong long term solution. Ipinunto rin ng Gobernador na dapat ay magkaroon din ng permanenteng tauhan ang grupo sa Cagayan, upang malaman kung sino ang dapat na kausapin kapag nagkaroon ng problema. Handa ring magbigay ang Gobernador ng espasyo para magsilbing opisina ng grupo. “You should also assign a permanent person here so that we know the people we can talk to. I’ve been telling before that there should be a “super body” to take of this. And there should be a holistic approach. This is not just a band-aid solution, we must have a medium and long-term solution,” pahayag ni Gov.Mamba. Samantala, nakasama rin sa pagpupulong ang mga department head at kawani ng Provincial Planning and Development Office, Provincial Natural Resources and Environment Office, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Engineering Office, at Provincial Information Office.(By Badz Heralde)

Governor Jose V. Gambito has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. for extending financial assistance of ₱50 million to the Novo Vizcayano farmers affected by the El Niño phenomenon. The aid was personally handed over to Gov. Gambito by President Marcos Jr. during his visit to Region 2, specifically in Ilagan City. “This generous support from President Marcos Jr. is a significant lifeline for our farmers who have been struggling due to the adverse effects of El Niño,” Gov. Gambito said. “We are deeply thankful for this timely intervention, which will go a long way in helping our agricultural sector recover and sustain their livelihoods.” The ₱50 million assistance, which will be distributed to 5,000 farmers at ₱10,000 each, aims to provide immediate relief and support to Novo Vizcayano farmers. This aid will ensure that they can continue their farming activities despite the challenges posed by the prolonged dry spell. In addition to the aid provided to Novo Vizcayano farmers, President Marcos Jr. also extended financial assistance to other provinces in the region.  He handed over ₱10million to Batanes Gov. Marilou Cayco, ₱50 million each to Cagayan Gov. Manuel Mamba and Isabela Gov. Rodolfo Albano III, and ₱30.92 million to Quirino Gov. Dakila Cua. This collective support aims to bolster the agricultural sector in these provinces and help farmers overcome the challenges brought about by the adverse weather conditions. The visit saw President Marcos Jr., accompanied by House Speaker Martin G. Romualdez,Cong. Zandro A. Marcos and other national officials, distributing financial aid to farmers, fisherfolks, and families across the Cagayan Valley. The total aid distributed amounted to nearly P200 million, aimed at alleviating the hardships brought about by the prolonged dry spell. During the event, President Marcos Jr. highlighted the government’s various initiatives designed to support the agricultural sector and enhance food security. He proudly mentioned programs such as “Kadiwa ng Pangulo,” which connects farmers directly with consumers, ensuring better prices for agricultural produce. Additionally, he spoke about the “Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair,” a program that brings government services and financial assistance closer to the citizens, and the “Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund,” which provides comprehensive support to rice farmers. “These initiatives are part of our commitment to uplift the lives of our farmers and fisherfolks and ensure that they have the necessary resources to thrive despite challenges like El Niño,” President Marcos Jr. stated. By Rachel Magday

Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya – In a significant stride towards enhancing local infrastructure, Governor Atty. Jose “Jing” V. Gambito inaugurated the Sitio Balangabang, Kayapa Proper West Farm-to-Market Road (FTMR),Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya,on June 14.. The project, valued at P5 million, is a key initiative of the provincial government, funded by the 2024 20% Development Fund and executed by the Provincial Agricultural Office. The newly constructed road stretches 921 meters in length and 3 meters in width. Governor Gambito was joined by former Governor Ruth R. Padilla, Board Members Patricio F. Dumlao Jr. and Castillo Tidang Jr., Executive Assistant Emerlene Jane Galanta-Martinez, local officials of Kayapa led by Vice Mayor Peter Bay-an, and employees of the Provincial Agricultural Office, headed by Provincial Agriculture Officer Rizal Absalom Baysa. This project is part of Governor Gambito’s flagship “Kalsada ti Kabanbantayan” program, which aims to improve road accessibility in mountainous areas. The Sitio Balangabang FTMR will not only connect various barangays within Kayapa but also establish a crucial link between the provinces of Nueva Vizcaya and Benguet via Brgy Domolpos, Itogon. In his speech,Governor Gambito emphasized the importance of the “Kalsada ti Kabanbantayan” program as a demonstration of the provincial government’s dedication to supporting indigenous communities residing in the mountains. “This initiative is designed to enhance mountain roads, making them more accessible and easing the transportation of agricultural products for our mountain-dwelling citizens,” he explained. Governor Gambito also took the opportunity to highlight other significant projects under his administration. These include the “Free WiFi ti Umili” program, aimed at providing internet connectivity to even the most remote barangays in Nueva Vizcaya, which will greatly benefit students’ education. He also mentioned the ongoing improvements to provincial hospitals, ensuring that Novo Vizcayanos no longer need to travel to Baguio or Manila for specialized medical care. Additionally, he discussed the “Doctor ti Umili” scholarship program and the solar lighting project for remote households not serviced by NUVELCO. Provincial Agriculture Officer Absalom Baysa announced that several other projects are lined up for the municipality of Kayapa under the “Kalsada ti Kabanbantayan” program. These include the improvement of the Tidang-Cabanglasan-Binalian FMR with a P6 million fund, the improvement of the Kayapa Proper East to Cabalatan Alang FMR with a P5.8 million fund, and the improvement of the Binalian to Banao FMR with a P6.1 million fund. Governor Gambito called for the unity, cooperation, and prayers of all Novo Vizcayanos to ensure the successful implementation of these initiatives. “The key to our province’s progress lies in our unity. Rest assured, I will work double time to realize programs that will uplift the livelihood of our people. I also ask for your prayers to help me fulfill my aspirations for Nueva Vizcaya,” he affirmed. Former Governor Ruth Padilla expressed her gratitude to Governor Gambito for continuing the programs initiated by the late Governor Carlos M. Padilla. She pledged that if given another opportunity to serve the people of Nueva Vizcaya, she would collaborate with Governor Gambito to ensure the continuous development of the province. “Thank you, Governor Gambito, for upholding the legacy of the late Governor Carlos M. Padilla. If given another chance to serve, I promise to work alongside you for the sustained progress of our province,” Padilla remarked. By NVPG/RM