PEÑABLANCA, CAGAYAN – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office 2 launched the coffee table book titled Stories of Hope 2.0 earlier today, September 25, 2024 at NGN Gran Hotel, Peñablanca, Cagayan
The event gathered local government units (LGUs) featured in the publication, alongside the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Director Agnes A. De Leon, Assistant Regional Director Elpidio A. Durwin, Cagayan Provincial Director Maria Loida M. Urmatam, Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Director Catherine G. Allam-Miranda, together with the field officers from the five provincial offices comprising the Cagayan Valley Region.
Also in attendance were Local Chief Executives Hon. Christopher A. Mamauag of Cabagan and Hon. Roberto A. Lungan of Benito Soliven from the Province of Isabela accompanied by their functionaries . Municipal Administrators and Engineers, and other local functionaries from the Local Government Units of Ivana and Sabtang from the Province of Batanes, Allacapan, Rizal, and Tuao from the Province of Cagayan, San Agustin and San Mateo from the Province of Isabela, Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya, and Cabarroguis, Quirino.
During the launch, Regional Director De Leon commended the LGUs for their success in implementing the projects showcased in the coffee table book. She emphasized that these projects reflect President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s advocacy for the Bagong Pilipinas, which seeks to uplift the lives of Filipinos by promoting inclusivity, progress, and resilience in the face of modern challenges.
Municipal Administrator Frederick G. Baligod, winner of the Local Access Road Category, shared how the concreted farm-to-market road in Brgy. San Vicente has significantly benefited farmers in the area.
Municipal Engineer Ervie R. Garces of LGU Benito Soliven, winner of the Potable Water System Category, recounted the LGU’s challenges before the project’s implementation and highlighted the community's collaborative efforts to complete the Potable Water System in Purok 2, Nacalma.
Mayor Mamauag of Cabagan, winner of the Vertical Infrastructure Category, discussed the LGU’s approach to ensuring that their Evacuation Center cum Quarantine Facility in Brgy. San Juan is tailored to the needs of its end-users. He emphasized that by "humanizing" the project, the LGU empowers those who need it most.
Engr. Froilan Campos of LGU San Agustin, winner of the 2023 Regional SubayBAYANI Awards, underscored the importance of the SubayBAYAN tool for project monitoring, stating that it promotes transparency and accountability in their LGU’s operations.
The Regional Project Development and Management Unit (RPDMU) conducted a ceremonial turnover of the coffee table book, handing copies to the Local Government Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) and its sub-LGRRC branches in the provincial offices.
ARD Durwin echoed RD De Leon’s message, highlighting that the coffee table book represents the hard work, dedication, and vision of the local government units. He stressed that collaboration, transparency, and accountability are essential in achieving meaningful progress.
IO II Louella Marie T. Pader
