Month: October 2025

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, under the leadership of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the National Food Authority (NFA) on October 27, 2025 to strengthen local rice production and provide greater support to Pangasinan farmers.

The signing ceremony was led by Governor Guico, NFA Acting Regional Manager Liza R. Balagot, and NFA Eastern Pangasinan Branch Office Manager Frederick A. Dulay, CESE.

Through the agreement, the Provincial Government and NFA will jointly operate and manage the Rice Processing System I (RPS I) facility in Sta. Barbara, which is expected to improve the marketability of farmers’ rice produce, reduce post-harvest losses, and lower operational costs. The initiative also promotes better use of NFA’s warehousing facilities and equipment, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures for quality control and food safety.

The partnership serves to support the implementation of the Corporate Farming Program, one of Governor Guico’s flagship initiatives, that seeks to transform agriculture into a sustainable and profitable enterprise. The program aims to consolidate agricultural efforts across the province, enabling farmers to work collectively and improve their productivity to gain better access to markets and post-harvest facilities.

At present, the Corporate Farming Program has engaged 1,442 farmers from 54 cooperatives, strengthening their capacity to produce quality rice and other high-value crops.

Witnessing the ceremonial signing were members of the Provincial Board led by Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino, along with NFA officials and representatives from the Provincial Government of Pangasinan.

This collaboration reinforces the Guico administration’s thrust to make Pangasinan a leader in agricultural innovation and food sufficiency in Northern Luzon.

(Danna Laureano, photos by JP De Vera | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN — The Province of Pangasinan celebrated the best of local tourism, culinary, and hospitality excellence through the first-ever DAYEW 2025: The Pangasinan Province Tourism Skills Exposition, held from October 20 to 21 in Lingayen.

Organized by the Provincial Government of Pangasinan through the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), in partnership with the Association of Hospitality and Tourism Trainers, Educators, and Professionals of Pangasinan (AHTTEP), the two-day expo gathered students from 24 universities across the province to compete in hospitality, tourism, and culinary skills competitions, including live and display challenges.

Pangasinan State University (PSU) emerged as the DAYEW 2025 Grand Champion, sweeping both titles for Culinary and Tourism Skills Challenge categories, while San Nicolas Pangasinan Training and Assessment Center was named Hospitality Skills Challenge Champion.

“Thank you for expressing your talent and your skills as young Pangasinenses. Hopefully, in the next coming years, we will gather more institutions to be part of this endeavor,” said Provincial Administrator Manny Luis Jr., who represented Governor Ramon V. Guico III. “Rest assured that the Office of the Governor is one hundred percent in support of these activities, especially in honing future contributors to the tourism sector of our province,” he added.

Provincial Tourism Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan also described the event as part of the provincial government’s continuous investment in human capital development. “This launching activity is our aspiration for the development of young, highly skilled, culture and values-oriented Pangasinense. This exposition’s showcase of skills and culture of excellence will lead us closer to the accomplishment of the vision and mission of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan under the administration of Governor Ramon V. Guico III.”

Distinguished guests who joined the program included 1st District Board Member and Chairperson of the Committee on Tourism Hon. Apolonia DG. Bacay, AHTTEP President Dr. Jerry L. Ceballos Jr., CHED RO1 Director IV Christine Nabor Ferrer, TESDA Pangasinan Provincial Director James Ferrer, among other educators and tourism leaders.

LIST OF WINNERS

HOSPITALITY SKILLS COMPETITION
• Table Setting (Display Competition)
GOLD: Maxima Technical and Skills Training Institute, Inc.
SILVER: University of Perpetual Help System Pangasinan
BRONZE: PHINMA University of Pangasinan – Dagupan Campus

• Hotel Lobby Centerpiece (Display Competition)
GOLD: San Nicolas Pangasinan – Training and Assessment Center
SILVER: Universidad de Dagupan
BRONZE: Pangasinan State University

• Napkin Folding (Live Competition)
GOLD: San Nicolas Pangasinan – Training and Assessment Center
SILVER: Maxima Technical and Skills Training Institute, Inc.
BRONZE: Ledesma School of Skills Development, Inc.

• Cocktail Mixing Challenge – Talking Bartender (Live Competition)
GOLD: University of Perpetual Help System Pangasinan
SILVER: STI College Alaminos
BRONZE: PIMSAT Colleges Dagupan

CULINARY SKILLS COMPETITION
• Pangasinan Cuisine Cooking Challenge
GOLD: University of Luzon
SILVER: Philippine Accountancy and Science School College
BRONZE: Pangasinan State University

• Fruit and Vegetable Carving
GOLD: Pangasinan State University
SILVER: Philippine College of Science and Technology
BRONZE: PIMSAT Colleges

• Plated Dessert Display Competition
GOLD: PHINMA University of Pangasinan – Dagupan Campus
SILVER: Pangasinan State University
BRONZE: Philippine College of Science and Technology

TOURISM SKILLS COMPETITION
• Travel Brochure Design Competition
GOLD: Pangasinan State University
SILVER: PASS College
BRONZE: Lyceum Northwestern University

• Travel Vlog Competition
GOLD: PHINMA University of Pangasinan – Dagupan Campus
SILVER: Pangasinan State University
BRONZE: WCC Aeronautical and Technological College – Binalonan

• Tour Guiding Competition
GOLD: Pangasinan State University
SILVER: Señor Tesoro College, Inc.
BRONZE: WCC Aeronautical and Technological College – Binalonan

• Pangasinan Ultimate Ecotourism Tour Package Competition
GOLD: Pangasinan State University
SILVER: PHINMA University of Pangasinan – Dagupan Campus
BRONZE: University of Perpetual Help System Pangasinan

• Flight Attendant Showmanship
GOLD: Pangasinan WCC Aeronautical and Technological College – Binalonan
SILVER: PHINMA University of Pangasinan – Dagupan Campus
BRONZE: Pangasinan State University

(Danna Laureano, Photo by JP De Vera | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, led by Gov. Ramon V. Guico III, paid tribute to the province’s senior population during the Elderly Filipino Week 2025 provincial celebration held at the PTDC II here, on October 22, 2025. With the theme, “Embracing Age: Living a Life with Dignity and Purpose,” the celebration was spearheaded by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office. It highlighted the PGP’s commitment to its elderly constituents.

Provincial Administrator Manuel Luis Jr. delivered Gov. Guico’s message, assuring the elderly of the provincial government’s unwavering support. “Ang opisina po ng ating butihing gobernador at ang PSWDO ay nakasuporta sa inyo pong mga programa at pangagailangan,” PA Luis stated, emphasizing Gov. Guico’s commitment to enhancing health initiatives for the province.

The event featured the recognition of the Top 5 LGUs with the Most Outstanding Senior Citizens Centers, which were awarded certificates of recognition and cash prizes. Winners were evaluated based on their delivery of safe, inclusive, and high-impact programs for senior citizens.

The winners were as follows: Champion: Villasis 1st Runner-Up: Urdaneta City 2nd Runner-Up: Balungao 3rd Runner-Up: Basista 4th Runner-Up: Asingan

Likewise, Pangasinense centenarians were individually honored with certificates of recognition and cash gifts. Honorary guests included Atty. Glaiza Bernadeth P. Pinto-Tadeo, National Commission of Senior Citizens-Region 1 Director; Board Member Marinor B. De Guzman; Board Member Apolonia DG. Bacay; PGO Consultant Rosary Gracia “Chinky” P. Tababa; and OSCARAP President Francisco T. Guico, Jr. Dr. Belinda S. Barrozo, President of the Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines (FSCAP) Pangasinan Chapter, expressed deep gratitude for the support received from the provincial government and Gov. Guico. “Thank you, Governor, for giving your support. This will be sustained through our advocacy, social mobilization, and linkage management,” she said.

The event reaffirmed PGP’s commitment to ensuring that Pangasinense senior citizens continue to live with dignity, respect, and purpose.

(Eira Gorospe, photo by GIP Monica Melchor | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Province of Pangasinan has been recognized by the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF), under the Department of Finance, for its outstanding performance in fiscal management for the year 2024. As stated in the BLGF Memorandum Circular No. 017-2025, dated October 1, 2025, Pangasinan ranked 7th in Locally Sourced Revenues (LSR) nationwide and 10th in Year-on-Year Growth in LSR from 2023 to 2024 among the provinces across the country.

A testament of Pangasinan’s commitment to good governance, the achievement reflects the province’s commitment to sound financial leadership backed by efficient revenue generation and continuous improvement in local governance. LSR includes real property tax, business and other taxes, fees, as well as local economic enterprise revenues.

Since July 2022, Governor Ramon V. Guico III’s administration has implemented policies and programs that promote responsible financial management.  The 11-year-old Revenue Code of the province has been amended by the provincial board, resulting in increased mineral extraction fees, resulting in an unprecedented increase in revenue collection.

On various occasions, Governor Guico has emphasized that all recognitions received by the province are a result of the collective efforts of the provincial government, local officials, and employees who work tirelessly to ensure that targets and goals for financial stability and growth are met and surpassed. Pangasinan’s ranking in LSR (Locally Sourced Revenues) and year-on-year growth demonstrates its ability to generate and manage its own resources effectively.

The BLGF’s recognition of Pangasinan’s fiscal management aptly testifies to the province’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance. Last year, the province incurred a record-breaking revenue collection of P6.6 billion. Gross collection from quarry products (sand, gravel, and other quarry products) has totalled P235,575,494.26.

Provincial government-run hospitals, on the other hand, generated a record of P546.14 million in hospital fees, surpassing the P400 million target. The utilization of automated digital apps to modernize and boost the collection of revenues from mining and quarry operators has contributed to the unprecedented collection growth.

(Ruby F. Rayat|PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Pangasinan Polytechnic College (PPC), headed by its president Prof. Raymundo D. Rovillos, PhD, and the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD), recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signifying a strong partnership to strengthen academic programs, research and development, and bolster community extension services.

Signed by the PPC president and UP Chancellor Atty. Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, the MOU aims to establish a framework for collaboration in different areas, such as joint research and development projects, community and extension service initiatives, academic program development, and technical assistance. The ceremonial signing was witnessed by Mr. Nicanor D. Germono Jr., PPC Board Secretary and International Relations Officer, and Prof. Giovanni Francis A. Legaspi, Dean of the UP-Asian Institute of Tourism (AIT).

As a flagship program of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, PPC has made significant strides since its opening in 2024, with a total of 700 students comprising the first batch of enrollees. Earlier, PPC beefed up partnerships with various international institutions and firms, including Globarx Philippines, which supports foreign professionals who want to find a job or switch careers in Japan. The Lotte Scholarship Foundation (South Korea), on the other hand, awards scholarships to deserving Pangasinense youth, including PPC students.

With a mission to provide free and quality education for the youth, Governor Guico pushes for PPC expansion through the establishment of additional campuses in the future.

As such, PPC management is optimistic that through various partnerships, enhanced academic and research capabilities that will benefit students and faculty as well as the community, are within reach.

(Ruby F. Rayat|PIMRO, photo courtesy of PPC)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Provincial Government, under the stewardship of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, has extended the Alternative Learning System (ALS) Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) Program to Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) for three years.

In partnership with the Schools Division Office 1 Pangasinan, the program which runs from 2025 to 2028, is a manifestation of the governor’s commitment to continually implementing policies, programs, and projects that promote and protect equal right of all citizens to quality education and ensure its accessibility at all levels.

Through this, PDLs are given opportunity to earn an elementary or secondary education equivalency certificate that will equip them with necessary credentials to acquire better opportunities upon reintegration into society.

On October 20, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino, approved a resolution authorizing the governor to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with SDO1 Pangasinan for the program extension.

“The provision of educational opportunities, such as the continuous implementation of Alternative Learning System (ALS) Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) Program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), aligns with the province’s commitment to inclusive education and restorative justice by empowering PDLs through literacy, skills development, and values formation,” the resolution which was authored by the vice governor, stated.

ALS program has been instrumental in providing educational opportunities to marginalized groups. “The launching of ALS A&E Program at the Pangasinan Provincial Jail will open doors of opportunity for PDLs who did not finish elemenatary and junior high school,” Ret. Col. Lovell U Dalisay, PPJ chief of office, disclosed.

(Ruby F. Rayat|PIMRO, photo courtesy from PPJ)

PASAY CITY, Philippines — Ten micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Pangasinan proudly showcased their world-class creations as the prestigious Manila FAME opened on October 16, 2025 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City.

Representing the province were Olly + Fely by KNPH (Bolinao), RAJ Handicrafts (BANI), E-Kawayan Factory (Alaminos City), Gemma’s Souvenir Shop (Alaminos City), Lapey Loom Weaving Manufacturing (Umingan), Ilokana Handicraft (San Manuel), BLADES (Pozorrubio), Alma’s Handicraft (Pozorrubio), Bandulf Industries (San Carlos City), and Crafter’s Joy Cornhusk Products (Basista).

In his interview, Governor Ramon V. Guico III expressed pride in how far Pangasinan’s local artisans have come since the province’s first participation in 2023. “Nakakatuwa kasi when we started it was a struggle because medyo tough yung process of joining sa Manila FAME. Kaya malapit yung puso natin dito. If we promote industries such as this one, they could themselves generate employment for the province. ‘Yan yung kanyang effect sa ating local economy,” Governor Guico said.

The governor is also open to the idea of establishing a shared facility for artisans and entrepreneurs in Pangasinan to provide them access to tools that would enhance the province’s creative industry. “Most of the entrepreneurs don’t have the financial capability to buy equipment needed for their production. We just have to get the guidance on how to run it, which sort of equipment we need to buy, how much their maintenance will be, so that this will be shared to our public and local entrepreneurs,” he added.

Project Abound founder Dr. Arlyn Grace Guico was also optimistic about the growth and transformation of local MSMEs over the years. “Nakakatuwa ang MSMEs kasi every year nag-e-evolve yung products. Gumaganda at dekalidad na, pwede nang panlaban sa international market. We have to showcase the products of Pangasinan. Otherwise, they don’t know us,” Dr. Guico said.

Through Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (PEDIPO), Pangasinan Public Employment Services Office (PESO), DTI Pangasinan and Project Abound, the provincial government continues to conduct product development activities and market linkage programs to ensure locally-made products can meet global standards while still reflecting the province’s rich culture.

By joining international trade fairs like Manila FAME and IFEX Philippines, Pangasinan continues to open doors for its local artisans and keeps moving toward a future of sustainable economic growth.

(Danna Laureano, Photos by JP De Vera | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – It’s all systems go for the first-ever Governor Ramon V. Guico III’s Inter-Town Basketball Tournament 2025.

Expected to be an exciting competition among local cagers, the tournament will feature the best shooters, rebounders, dribblers, fast breakers, screeners and defenders from each participating team from various towns and cities.

In line with this, an orientation session was conducted from October 16-17, among coaches, managers, and referees from participating municipalities and cities, marking a significant step toward a successful maiden tournament. In addition to the orientation, submission of official entries and a technical practicum for local referees were held to ensure that all stakeholders are well-prepared for the games.

The tournament is expected to foster a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participating teams while showcasing Pangasinan’s love and passion for basketball.

Updates on the tournament’s final list of teams and official line-ups, game schedules and match-ups as well as the final date of the inaugural program will be announced later by Mr. Leo Arnaiz, PGO Sports Division Head.

(Ruby F. Rayat, photo by Orlan Llemos | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 1 has recognized the Province of Pangasinan as a ‘Highly Functional Provincial Council for the Protection of Children Against Abuse and Trafficking (PCAT) and Provincial Council for the Protection of Women (VAWC)’.

Reflecting the province’s strong commitment to protecting and empowering women and children, the recognition acknowledges the province’s effort in promoting a safe and supportive environment both for women and children. Likewise, it mirrors the present administration led by Governor Ramon V. Guico, the dedication to upholding their rights and welfare.

Under Governor Guico, the provincial government has bolstered outreach and social services in partnership with the First Spouses League led by the provincial chief executive’s wife, Mrs. Maan Tuazon Guico, and with the help of several departments to include the social welfare, health, and employment offices, as well as other line agencies. Social services such as provision of financial assistance, burial, educational and medical assistance are given to serve the most vulnerable constituents.

In addition, livelihood programs through skills training and other community-based activities were initiated. Some of these programs include Technical Vocational Training (TVET) which are accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Specific skills training include bookkeeping, caregiving, welding, beauty care, health care services and others.

The presence of the Pangasinan Crisis Intervention Center (PCIC) which is a certified Gender and Development Local Learning Hub, is also a manifestation of support and services for Pangasinense women and children by the current administration.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) led by Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino, on the other hand, fully supports all programs and projects that redounds to the benefit of the vulnerable sectors of society.

Aside from the ordinance creating the LCAT-VAWC), the SP crafted several provincial ordinances and resolutions to protect the welfare of women and children. Some of these include the creation of Provincial Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) in the Province of Pangasinan to promote the welfare and rights of persons with disabilities which also benefit women and children who are differently-abled.

Other local resolutions of various towns and cities include creation of Safe Spaces Act which aims to prevent gender-based sexual harrassment in streets, public spaces, online, workplaces and educational or training institutions; provision of emergency relief and protection for children before, during, and after disasters and other emergency situations.

(Ruby F. Rayat | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The province celebrates another win as the Pangasinan Futsal Team emerges as the Overall Champion in the recent International Futsal Championship 2025 held in Bali, Indonesia.

The Pangasinan Football Association (PFA) led by Governor Ramon V. Guico III, has been instrumental in promoting futsal in the province. PFA has actively organized various tournaments to include the Festival of Futsal which was participated in by top teams and players from the region. This event has helped develop young homegrown talent further promoting the sport throughout the region.

Expressing appreciation to the Pangasinan Futsal Team, the governor commended their hard work and dedication. “ Your victory brings honor to the province and the entire nation,” he said.

Some of the initiatives undertaken by the province include key developments such as Futsal Coaching Courses, a joint undertaking of the Pangasinan Provincial Government and the PFA in cooperation with the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) held at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center Gymnasium in 2023.

Previously, Pangasinan team won the U15 Futsal Boys National Champioship in the Batang Pinoy 2024 which proves the province’s strength and dominance in the sport.

As earlier disclosed by Mr. Leo Arnaiz, Consultant-PCDTO, OIC-NRSCC, , character formation in sports is an important factor, even as he added that coaches play pivotal role in developing the character of the players. “A good coach can change a game, an excellent coach can change a life,” he said.

Highly supportive of Governor Guico’s sports thrust, Arnaiz believes Pangasinan has potential futsal players who can be honed to become world champions in the future.

The Pangasinan Futsal Team composition is as follows: Head Coach: Mr. Leopoldo C. Arnaiz; Coach: Victoriano P. Jugo; Assistant Coach: Cristopher Shaun A. Sison; Manager/Physical Consultant: Roderick T. De Guzman; Players: 1) Jerimie Gian Esteves Acosta; 2) Roderick Gamboa Bautista; 3) Cris Lawrence Doquenia Gonzales; 4) Jester Andrei Ragacho Lagmay; 5) John Christopher Necerio Oduca; 6) Alexander Xiane Hizon Osana; 7) Gabriel Naboa Rivera; 😎 Al Rhaji Espiritu Roldan; 9) John Delmar Abamid Sagun; 10) Jerick Bebis Salting; 11) Michael Hermogeno Santos, Jr.; 12) Jiorence Gamboa Veloria; 13) Mike Russel Cabalse Vetonio; 14) Carl Kenth Aviles Ventanilla.

(Ruby F. Rayat, photo courtesy of Victor Jugo | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN — Governor Ramon V. Guico III led the “Empowering Barangay Health Workers Towards Strengthened Universal Health Care” Barangay Health Worker (BHW) Summit held on October 13–14, 2025, bringing together BHW Presidents from municipalities across Pangasinan for a two-day gathering that aimed at advancing the province’s Universal Health Care (UHC) implementation.

The event served as a platform to recognize the indispensable role of BHWs as the province’s health frontliners and to strengthen collaboration in public health service delivery. The program also included a lecture on the mental health gap, a presentation of the BHW progress report, and the oath-taking ceremony for the newly-elected BHW Federation officers led by Governor Guico himself.

In her speech, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Maria Vivian Villar-Espino emphasized the province’s goal of providing continuous guidance to BHWs so they can carry out their duties effectively. “We want to empower BHWs, to make them feel na we are here always to assist them, and to guide them in order to implement the programs of the Governor,” Dr. Espino said.

Meanwhile, Provincial Hospital Management Services Office (PHMSO) Head Dr. Tracy Lou Bitoy highlighted Governor Guico’s prioritization of health further recognizing the hard work of the health workers. “We are very lucky to have a governor like Gov. Mon Mon Guico who is really prioritizing health, so naka-focus po talaga ang flagship program niya doon. Kinikilala po talaga ng ating mahal na gobernador ang sipag at talento ng mga BHW dahil sila ang unang pinupuntahan ng ating mga kababayan, ” she stated.

Through the province’s expansive health programs and the dedication of BHWs, more than 1.5 million Pangasinenses are now enrolled under the PhilHealth Konsulta Program, now known as PhilHealth YAKAP. In support of these initiatives, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Pangasinan enacted Provincial Ordinance No. 345-2025, which provides remuneration to Pangasinan Medical Responders (PMRs) including BHWs, Patient Navigators, and allied health personnel as official partners in implementing the PhilHealth YAKAP. This ordinance institutionalizes their role in delivering primary care services such as consultations, health screenings, and diagnostics, while ensuring sustained financial and logistical assistance from the provincial government.

The PHO and PHMSO also continue to link local health units, hospitals, and communities through programs aligned with the Universal Health Care Act. These efforts complement ongoing initiatives to modernize provincial hospitals and extend access to medical services to every Pangasinense from the town centers to remote barangays.

By investing in local health workers and modernizing systems, the provincial government envisions Pangasinan as a model of accessible and people-centered healthcare.

(Danna Laureano, photo by Ervin Alcantara | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Governor Ramon “Mon-Mon” V. Guico III opened the week with an inspiring message during the flag-raising ceremony held at the Capitol Grounds on October 13, underscoring the importance of perseverance as the Provincial Government continues to pursue progress for Pangasinan.

Focusing on the Value Focus of the Week which is ‘Perseverance,’ Governor Guico said that proper planning and proactive action serves as the foundation of good governance. The governor also discussed several key issues and ongoing development initiatives of the Provincial Government.

Stating that the persistent problem of flooding has affected various areas of Pangasinan including the eastern part which is not traditionally prone to it, the Provincial Government was prompt in taking action by establishing the Flood Management Office which is a dedicated body tasked to study the causes of flooding, source appropriate funding, and plan and implement infrastructure projects to mitigate its impact.

“Hopefully, through these initiatives, ay ma-resolba natin ‘yung problema ng pagbabaha sa ilan po nating lugar. Kasi recently, maski sa Eastern part of Pangasinan na hindi naman dati binabaha—ay binabaha na ngayon. So we have to study that, we have to find out the root cause of the problem,” the provincial chief executive said.

Likewise, he also stressed the growing traffic and crowd management issues in Manaoag which is one of the province’s most visited places and home to the iconic Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag. To improve traffic flow, two classrooms had to be demolished to make way for a new road. However, Governor Guico assured that education remains a top priority, as the Provincial Government plans to construct 30 additional classrooms, ensuring that development and education advance together without compromise.

Furthermore, Governor Guico discussed the ongoing development of the Capitol Complex, emphasizing that every project is carefully planned not only for the community’s convenience and accessibility but also to attract tourists and local businesses to Lingayen. He mentioned that while 192 trees had to be removed as part of the redevelopment project, hundreds more were planted to replace them under the Green Canopy Program, which has already planted over 500,000 trees across Pangasinan which he said, is a clear manifestation to the province’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

The Governor also highlighted the continued prioritization of healthcare, as he stated, “More than anything else, we have to give importance to healthcare. That is why we are building more health facilities.”

As such, construction and upgrading of hospitals and health centers throughout the province continuously being undertaken to make quality medical services more accessible to the more than 3.1 million Pangasinense.

In closing, Governor Guico encouraged provincial employees and all Pangasinenses to embrace perseverance, plan with purpose, and work together as one team toward a more progressive and resilient Pangasinan.

(Trisha Gayle Chavaria|RFR, photo by Orlan Llemos | PIMRO)