BY LEANDER C. DOMINGO
BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya— Marking the beginning of his first full term in office, Governor Jose “Jing” Gambito delivered his inaugural speech outlining his vision for a progressive province of Nueva Vizcaya after he took his oath at the CMP Convention Center here on June 30, 2025.
With a landslide victory in the recent elections, Gambito expressed gratitude to the people of Nueva Vizcaya for their overwhelming support.
In his speech, Gambito highlighted the province’s achievements under his leadership since 2023, including becoming insurgency-free, being elevated from a second-class to a first-class province, and ranking second in the Philippines for fastest-growing economy.
He said the province also received the Seal of Good Local Governance or SGLG award from the Department of the Interior and Local Government or DILG for the first time.
Key initiatives and programs Gambito outlined were his vision for a progressive, inclusive and resilient Nueva Vizcaya, with several key initiatives and programs, including infrastructure development.
These initiatives included the continued implementation of the “Kalsada ti Kabanbantayan” and “Dalan ti Umili” programs, with increased funding to improve roads and infrastructure.
Another initiative he mentioned was on education and connectivity by expanding the “Free WiFi ti Umili” program to reach every public elementary and secondary school.
He also mentioned an initiative on healthcare by improving health services through modernized hospital equipment and the Wellness Caravan program, bringing quality medical services to remote areas.
On boosting tourism and the economy, he vowed to work on the reopening of the Bagabag Airport to enhance inter-regional tourism connectivity.
He also mentioned agriculture and renewable energy by promoting sustainable agriculture and healthy living, implementation of renewable energy in the provincial capitol and establishment of a solar farm to reduce electricity bills.
Gambito also said that there is a need to strengthen the support for vulnerable groups through financial assistance to solo parents, senior citizens and centenarians, as well as the establishment of a rehabilitation building for persons with disabilities or PWDs.
In empowering farmers and the youth, Gambito emphasized the importance of helping local farmers through initiatives like the Palay Processing Center which will provide a reliable venue for processing and storing produce.
He also expressed his commitment to supporting the youth, encouraging them to prepare themselves for the province’s future.
In a message of unity and hope, Gambito emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort in building a better Nueva Vizcaya.
He thanked the people for their trust and support, saying, “Maraming salamat po sa inyong tiwala, suporta at pagmamahal. Mabuhay ang Nueva Vizcaya! Mabuhay ang bawat Vizcayano.”