Month: December 2025

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, led by Governor Ramon V. Guico III, has initiated the River Rehabilitation and Flood Mitigation Project with a dredging operation at the Limahong Channel in Lingayen on December 24. The project targets river mouths clogged with silt and sediment, which slow water flow and cause flooding in nearby areas.

A vessel will temporarily operate at sea to clear the accumulated soil and sand, The project has secured approvals from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), EMB, and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) after meeting technical and financial requirements. The project is seen as a long-term solution to Pangasinan’s recurring flooding, aiming to protect lives and livelihoods.

It can be recalled that the provincial government launched the project on August 22, 2025, as a collaborative effort with DENR, MGB, congressional districts, and local government units. The desiltation process is funded by private partners at no cost to the government, per DENR Administrative Order No. 2020-07. Also, the provincial government enacted Ordinance No. 349-2025 to regulate river reforestation and established the Provincial Flood Mitigation and Management Office to oversee activities.

Governor Guico has assured that the project will be implemented in accordance with all existing environmental laws. Aside from the Limahong Channel, the project will also cover the rehabilitation of the Agno River, Sinucalan River, Cayanga River, and Pantal River.

“We will rehabilitate and revive our rivers so that waters, including floodwaters, can flow continuously to the sea, far from where we live,” the governor earlier said.

(Ruby F. Rayat, photo by Ervin Alcantara | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Provincial Government of Pangasinan awarded a total of 6.97 million in financial assistance to 702 Pangasinan State University (PSU) Provincial Scholars under the Pangasinan Provincial Scholarship Program for Academic Year 2024 – 2025, during an awarding ceremony held at the NRSCC Gym on December 17, 2025.

Each scholar received 10,000 pesos each, benefitting students from various PSU campuses across the province, including Alaminos City, Asingan, Bayambang, Binmaley, Infanta, Lingayen, San Carlos City, Sta. Maria, and Urdaneta City.

A highlight of the program was the recognition of Ms. Angelica Mae O. Fernandez of Barangay Sampaloc, Bolinao, the first Provincial Scholar in the 18-year history of the program to graduate as Summa Cum Laude. Fernandez earned her degree in Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from PSU Lingayen, with a General Weighted Average of 1.20.

“Napakalaking tulong po para sa akin ang scholarship na ito, lalo na po bilang isang estudyanteng may limitadong kakayahang pinansyal. Dahil dito, natupad ko po ang aking pangarap na makapagtapos ng kolehiyo. Maraming salamat po, Gov.,” Fernandez said.

The awarding also recognized other outstanding academic achievers, including 44 Magna Cum Laude, 45 Cum Laude, and 171 graduates with Academic Distinction, reflecting the strong academic performance of provincial scholars across PSU campuses.

Under the leadership of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan continues to champion accessible and inclusive education, affirming its commitment to empowering the youth and investing in the future of the province.

(Rich Majin, Photo by: Ervin Alcantara | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Provincial Government of Pangasinan led by Governor Ramon V. Guico III, has taken a significant step towards promoting green mobility and sustainable transportation with the launching of electronic vehicle (EV) charging stations within the Capitol Complex here.

The move, which is part of the provincial government’s efforts is aimed to reduce carbon emissions and encourage the adoption of eco-friendly transportation. The installation of two Level 2 EV charging stations was made possible through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the provincial government and Addavolt Energy Corporation.

Addavolt Energy Corporation is a fast-growing EV charging startup based in Baguio City that partners with local businesses to accelerate clean mobility and empower communities as well.

“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint,” Governor Guico said as he further stated that the provincial government aims to promote the use of electronic vehicles and provide the necessary infrastructure to support the project.

In attendance during the MOA signing ceremony were key officials, including Provincial Administrator Manuel O. Luis Jr., Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Babyruth Torre, and representatives from Addavolt Energy Corporation, namely Co-founder and CEO Lou Philip Beltran, Co-founder Madonna Beltran, and Sales Manager Christine Domantay.

The provincial government intends to expand its EV charging infrastructure to other municipalities in the province, further encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles and contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

As disclosed by the governor, the project is part of the province’s initiative to promote sustainable development and reduce its environmental impact.

(Ruby F. Rayat, photos by Ervin Alcantara | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, led by Governor Ramon V. Guico III, has made a significant stride after bagging five prestigious Palbayani Awards for its outstanding contributions in promoting Universal Health Care and delivering quality healthcare services.

Governor Guico, along with Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Maria Vivian Villar-Espino, Provincial Hospital Management Services Office Head Dr. Tracy Lou Bitoy, Provincial DOH Office Team Leader Dr. Vernonica De Guzman, and Provincial Administrator Manuel Luis Jr., personally accepted the awards during the Gawad Kalusugan 2025, conducted by Department of Health-Ilocos Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD), held recently in San Fernando City, La Union.

The awards received by Pangasinan are as follows:
 1st Place- Best Local Investment Plan for Health Implementer
2nd Place- UHC Achievement Award
Palbayani Award for Malaria-free Province
Palbayani Award for Immunization Champions
100% Swab-Compliance Award for Measles Surveillance

“This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing quality healthcare services to the people of Pangasinan. We will continue to strive for excellence in healthcare and make our province a healthier place for all,” the governor said.

The Gawad Kalusugan Awards ceremony honored local government units and healthcare institutions for their outstanding efforts in promoting health and wellness in their communities. Pangasinan’s achievements demonstrate its commitment to improving healthcare services in its goal to achieve excellence as embodied in its ‘Pangasinan, Ang Galing’ program thrust.

(Ruby F. Rayat, Photos by Ervin Alcantara | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Provincial Government, led by Governor Ramon V. Guico III, celebrated this year’s Christmas Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol Complex, emphasizing the true meaning of Christmas amidst the challenges faced by the province.

In his speech, Governor Guico acknowledged the difficulties brought by recent calamities, notably Typhoon Uwan, but highlighted the resilience and unity of Pangasinenses from the leaders down to the residents. He emphasized that Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ bringing hope and love to everyone.

He thanked local government unit officials for their effort in spreading joy to their constituents through their own Christmas celebrations. He also expressed gratitude to his wife, the province’s First Lady, Maan Tuazon-Guico, for her role in organizing the event for the past four years.

Reflecting the province’s renewed spirit of hope, unity and generosity, ‘Paskong Ang Galing, Pangasinan Nagniningning,’ brought the holiday spirit to the Capitol Grounds through spectacular display of lights and decorations. The 48-feet tall Christmas tree stood with colorful designs and the Nativity scene or ‘Belen’ showcases giant statues illustrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

During the event, the “TAWIRAN: Pamanang Kaalaman Para Sa Magandang Kinabukasan” program was launched. This aimed at empowering out-of-school youth through Community-Based Values Formation and Functional Literacy Program.

The top three local government units (LGUs) in the Parol Making Contest were also announced as follows: LGU Bani (Champion); LGU Rosales (1st Runner-up); LGU Bolinao (2nd Runner-up).

The first family was enjoined by Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino and wife, Atty. Melanie Lambino, members of the provincial board with their family, department heads and chiefs of hospitals led by Provincial Administrator Manuel O. Luis Jr., LGU officials and representatives, stakeholders among other guests.

Adding a thrilling touch to the celebration was the magnificent fireworks display that lit up the sky creating a festive atmosphere embodying the spirit of Christmas in Pangasinan.

(Ruby F. Rayat, Photos by JP De Vera & Charish Rivera | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — The Provincial Government of Pangasinan has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to uplifting every community, regardless of location, through the recent Indigenous Peoples Month Celebration held in Sitio Mapita, Aguilar.

The event carried the theme *“Wearing Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development,”* highlighting the vital role of preserving native culture while advancing developmental efforts.

A highlight of the program was the vibrant traditional tribal dance performance by the Indigenous Peoples Organization (IPO) Mapita, which showcased the community’s cultural identity and heritage. During the celebration, the Provincial Government, together with the Local Government Unit of Aguilar and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, distributed gift packs and provided financial assistance to IPs in the area.

In a heartfelt message, Julita Sippi, a tribal member and teacher at Mapita Integrated School, expressed gratitude:
_“In behalf ng buong tribo, marami pong salamat sa masidhing suporta. Kung iimbitahin daw namin sila yearly—yearly din daw silang support. Pero hindi lang naman ‘iyon ang natatanggap naming suporta galing sa kanila, simula noon pa man, support na talaga sila sa community namin. Kaya maraming salamat kay Governor Guico,” she said.

The smiles of the Indigenous Peoples serve as a reminder that their traditions, stories, and practices are not only significant parts of history but also a key that opens the door to the future.

(Trisha Gayle Chavaria, photo by John Paul De Vera | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – Nine government offices in the Pangasinan Provincial Government, including four hospitals, have been recognized for their outstanding performance in implementing the Stategic Performance management System (SPMS) and achieving ISO certification for Quality Management.

The awardees, announced by the Human Resource Management and Development Office led by Ms. Janette C. Asis on December 4, are the following Best SPMS implementers: 1) Pangasinan Public Employment Services Office (PESO) for 1-50 employees category; 2) Sangguniang Panlalawigan Secretariat for 51-100 employees; 3) Provincial Agriculture Office for 101 and above employees. Each office received Certificate and cash prize of PhP5,000.

For the ISO-certified Quality Management Award, the following were recognized: 1) Provincial Health Office; 2) Internal Audit Division; 3) Pangasinan Provincial Hospital; 4) Urdaneta District Hospital; 5) Bolinao Community Hospital; 6) Lingayen District Hospital. Each received Certificate and cash prize of PhP8,000.

The SPMS is a mechanism that links employee performance with organizational performance to enhance the performance orientation of the compensation system. ISO certification, on the other hand, is a recognition of an organization’s quality management system that meets international standard.This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the employees in the various offices, indicating the province’s commitment to excellence public service, as reflected in the ‘Pangasinan Ang Galing!’ goal of the present administration under the leadership of Governor Ramon V. Guico III.

(Ruby F. Rayat, photo by Ervin Alcantara | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through the Pangasinan PESO and the Pangasinan Migration and Development Council (PMDC), recognized outstanding Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) Family Associations and Migrant Desk Offices in the province during the Bolun Awards 2025 on December 4, 2025.

Bolun comes from the word “boluntaryo,” which means volunteer — it captures the very essence of the award.

Now in its third year, the Bolun Awards continues to recognize the remarkable contributions of OFWs and OFWs Family Associations in their communities across the province.

The associations were evaluated based on their functional organization, proper financial housekeeping, programs and initiatives, Migrant Desk Officer reports, and overall best practices.

Among the entries submitted, the following emerged as the Top 5:
Champion: Sto. Tomas OF/W Family Association
1st Runner-Up: Infanta OF/W Family Association
2nd Runner-Up: Villasis OFW & Families Association
3rd Runner-Up: Mangaldan OFW Returnees & Their Dependents Organization
4th Runner-Up: Calasiao OFW Family Association

“The Provincial Government, through the leadership of Gov. Ramon V. Guico III, assures that all activities for our OFWs are supported,” said Provincial Administrator Manuel Luis Jr., who represented the PMDC Chairman, Gov. Ramon V. Guico III, in the program.

The Bolun Awards reasserts the province’s and Gov. Guico’s dedication to supporting all OFWs, acknowledging them as vital partners in local development across Pangasinan.

(Eira Gorospe, photo by JP De Vera | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Forty-two local government units (LGUs) in Pangasinan have been recognized as part of the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA) for their dedication, resilience, and commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of children.

In an inspirational message delivered by Atty. Maan Ferrer-Villegas on behalf of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, all LGUs were encouraged to continue their efforts for the welfare of families and children in Pangasinan. The Governor also expressed his ongoing support for programs that aim to shape a better future for every child.

The following LGUs received awards:

Hall of Famers: Anda, Alaminos City, Bugallon, Sta. Barbara, Villasis, and Urbiztondo.

National Finalists in the Presidential Award for Child-Friendly Municipalities and Cities (PACFMC): San Fabian and San Carlos City.

Consecutive Year Passers (2 years): Bani, Lingayen, Calasiao, Manaoag, Binalonan, Sto. Tomas, Balungao, San Quintin, San Carlos, Burgos, Mangaldan, San Manuel, Aguilar, Mangatarem, Bayambang, Malasiqui, Alcala, Laoac, Asingan, Rosales, Sta. Maria, Urdaneta, and Umingan.

One-Time Passers: Agno, Infanta, Labrador, Sison, Tayug, Bolinao, Sual, Pozorrubio, and Natividad.

All awarded LGUs received a Certificate of Recognition, a sealed plaque, and a cash gift from the Provincial Government of Pangasinan.

The awarding ceremony was led by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), under the direction of Ms. Annabel T. Roque, in collaboration with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Pangasinan.

The event was attended by 4th District Board Member and Chairperson of the Committee on Social Services and Family Affairs, Hon. Marinor B. De Guzman; Consultant on Social Services and Community Political Affairs and Former Board Member of the 5th District, Ms. Chinky Perez-Tababa; and DILG Representative, Mr. Andres A. Vendiola Jr.

(Patricia Sevilla, Photos by Ervin Alcantara | PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Governor’s Cup Inter-Town Basketball Tournament has officially kicked off last month, bringing together 43 teams from across Pangasinan in a thrilling battle of skill, teamwork and sportsmanship.

Governor Ramon V. Guico III expressed his confidence that the next basketball superstar will emerge from this tournament, citing the province’s rich talent pool and passion for the sport.

“We’re excited to see our young athletes compete and showcase their talents,” Governor Guico said. “This tournament is not just about winning, but about fostering camaraderie, discipline, and a sense of community among our youth,” he added.

Pangasinan is home to notable cagers who made names in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and other national basketball tournaments like Marc Pingris, well-known as “Pinoy Sakuragi” who hails from Pozorrubio town; Marlou Aquino from Sta. Barbara, a PBA legend drafted first overall by Ginebra San Miguel in 1996, a three-time PBA Champion and PBA Defensive Player of the Year; Lordy Tugade from Alaminos City, known for his three-point shooting, played for several teams; Jason Ballesteros from Basista, drafted seventh by Meralco Bolts in 2011; CJ Perez who grew up in Bautista town was a top rockie pick and has played for several PBA teams, among others.

Tugade is the lone homegrown cager who graced the opening of the Inter-Town tournament. During the program, Governor Guico announced that the tournament boasts an impressive prize pool of PhP1.5 million, with the champion team taking home the coveted title and the cash prize. With huge prizes at stake, the competition is expected to be fierce and adrenaline-pumping.

More than just a sporting event, the governor’s Cup Inter-Town Basketball Tournament is a celebration of Pangasinan’s love for basketball and its commitment to nurturing young talent who are set to conquer the national and possibly international arena in the future.

Currently, games per conference are held in different venues across the province. Game schedules are posted on the official Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581686280674 .

(Ruby F. Rayat, Photo By JP De Vera | PIMRO)