State of the Province Address

of the
Honorable Matthew J. Marcos Manotoc
Governor of the Province of Ilocos Norte
delivered on October 8, 2024, at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena

Ilokano para ti Narimrimat nga Ilocos Norte!

INTRODUCTION

Congressman Angelo Marcos Barba

Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos
Consul Ren Faqiang
Mayors and Vice Mayors
Sangguniang Bayan and Panlungsod Members
Uniformed Personnel
National Government Agencies
Non-Government Organizations
Investors and Stakeholders
Officials of the Judiciary
Agriculture Cooperatives and Associations
Tourism Sector
Education Sector and DepEd Family
Transportation Groups
Religious Leaders
Members of the Media
Guests

And to all my kakailian in Ilocos Norte and abroad. Naimbag a rabii.

To the Honorable Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos and the members of the
Provincial Board:

After typhoon Julian brought over a billion pesos in damages, we are reminded
of our vulnerability and the need to dredge our river systems. Yet in every
disaster, we see Ilokano resilience at work enabling us to keep each other afloat.
It is during our most challenging moments that we prove to you that we are a
Provincial Government you can depend on.
Sa gitna ng kalamidad, matatag ang mga Ilokano. Naandurtayo!

Hindi natin hahayaan na masayang ang pinag-paguran ng ating mga

magsasaka at mangingisda.

Kaya nating ayusin ang mga nasirang tahanan.

Tutulong tayo sa mga nawalan ng kabuhayan.

Sisiguraduhin natin na may sapat na pagkain ang bawat pamilya at ligtas

na makabalik ang mga bata sa paaralan.

Help is already underway, and we will make sure to reach every family in need.

I stand before you to again update you on what we have accomplished in the past
year, the state of our beloved province, and the direction we set forth for the next
year.

As I complete my second term in office, I am proud to say we have made

substantial progress in key areas of development.

Today, we stand stronger as a People, we stand prouder as a Province, and we

stand together in our mission towards a better Ilocos Norte.

AGRICULTURE

More than a century ago, brave Ilokanos crossed the seas carrying with them the
Ilokano spirit of hard work. As they pursued their dreams for their families, they
also left behind a legacy of farming the land and fishing the seas. Generations
later, our mannalon and mangngalap proudly continue to sustain Ilocos Norte.

We remain determined to prioritize our dear farmers and fisherfolk. Our

agriculture remains our very foundation. Nabilbileg nga agrikultura!

We have ensured the sustained productivity and profitability of our farmers by

investing nearly 346 million pesos in high-value crop seeds, fertilizers,
agricultural machinery, and equipment.

In the past year, we have distributed 36 combined harvesters, 54 four-wheel

tractors, 100 hand tractors and power tillers, 52 multi-cultivators, 30
transplanters, and a total of 2000 units pump and engine sets, sprayers, cooler
boxes, and shredding machines.

Moreover, we have completed 101 farm-to-market roads across the Province.

We have pursued the cultivation of high-value crops across the province to
diversify and strengthen our agricultural sector. This year, we expanded our
cacao plantations by 50 hectares in Adams, Pagudpud, and Vintar.

Likewise, we have cultivated a 30-hectare coffee plantation in Pagudpud and will

also establish a coffee processing facility to jumpstart our coffee industry.

For coconut, 37,000 seedlings have been distributed for expansion of 255
hectares across the Province. 26 million pesos will also be provided for the
establishment of a Virgin Coconut Oil and Coconut Flour Shared Processing
Facilities and various processing equipment in Pagudpud by PhilMech and the
Philippine Coconut Authority. We thank ED Boyet Alvindia and PCA Administrator
Dr. Dexter Buted for their support.

Our focused efforts in clustered farming for key commodities have resulted in a
production increase of 22% for mango, 12% for onion, and 9% for garlic –
solidifying our position as one of the top producers of these high value crops.

Una ang mga Ilokanong mag-sasaka sa buong bansa; mas malawak na

suporta, mas malaki ang kita.

With a project cost of 27 million pesos, clustered farming generated an estimated

gross sale of 76 million pesos. We also thank the Japanese Embassy for the
donation of a refrigerated van worth 2.5 million pesos, improving our farmers'
ability to transport and preserve their harvest.

Moreover, our Solar Salt Production Project in Burgos, in partnership with BFAR
and DOST has boosted salt production by 20% through the provision of 3.7
million pesos worth of equipment, led by the Mariposa Salt Makers Association.
We thank all at BFAR led by RD Rosario Gaerlan for their support.

Burgos is also the site of the Gourmet Salt R&D project of DOST worth 500,000
pesos. Meanwhile, Paoay will receive 1.2 million pesos from the DOST’s oneASIN
project. We will roll out similar salt production and processing Technology across
the province. We thank all at DOST led by RD Teresita Tabaog.

Our tobacco farmers have contributed to our economy by increasing their

production, which increased the share of the province in the tobacco excise tax
to 2.9 billion pesos for this year.

We also eye priority high value crops in bamboo and to further diversify our
production and open new markets for our mannalon. PGIN has established a
bamboo plantation worth 8 million pesos, covering an area of 9 hectares in Batac
in partnership with the City Government of Batac.
Our very own PBBM inaugurated the landmark Sulvec Small Reservoir Irrigation
Project in Pasuquin. This 940-million project by NIA will benefit over 1,000
farmers tilling 900 hectares of land. We thank our dearest President Bong Bong
Marcos Jr for always remembering Ilocos Norte. And we thank all at NIA led by
Administrator Eddie Guillen.

And we have started the Ilocos Norte Ilocos Sur Abra irrigation project or INISAIP
which will irrigate more than half the towns in our Province. INISAIP is the game
changer and we thank all at NEDA led by Sec. Arsi Balisacan and RD Steph
Christiansen.

PGIN allocated 14 million pesos, complemented by an additional 50 million pesos

from DAR, for the establishment of Solar-Powered Irrigation Systems thanks to
Sec. Conrad Estrella and RD MaAnn Francisco.

Furthermore, we have dedicated 57 million pesos for irrigation support to

enhance the productivity of our farmers and their associations. In the past year,
we have repaired 6 Small Water Impounding Projects and Diversion Dams and
repaired 266 Small Farm Reservoirs, and constructed 171 new Small Farm
Reservoirs. We would like to thank the Chinese Consulate for donating 10 solar
powered irrigation systems.

An additional 33.5 million pesos has been allocated for the repair and
improvement of Communal Irrigation Systems and diversion dams, on top of the
20,000 meters of irrigation canals dredged over the past year. These investments
will continue to optimize water usage, increase crop yields, and reinforce the
resilience of our agricultural sector.

We successfully implemented our Fuel Subsidy Program benefiting over 3,000

farmers who each received 3,000 pesos worth of fuel, totaling 9.2 million pesos,
alleviating their operational costs.

To complete our full-service assistance, from pre-planting to processing, we

constructed a range of post-harvest facilities, including 26 tobacco curing barns,
3 crop warehouses, 10 rice mills, and 11 mobile recirculating dryers with 6 and
12-ton capacities.

Additionally, the completion of a new multi-stage rice mill in Piddig, with a total
investment of 71 million pesos, will allow our rice farmers to process their own
rice and capture value before selling.

The construction of key agricultural facilities is well underway, including an

Agricultural Trading Post or bagsakan in Batac worth 30 million pesos, which will
help our farmers market their products directly to institutional buyers.
This year, we inaugurated the Quality Tomato Production, Consolidation, Storage,
and Marketing Enterprise Facility in Sarrat with the San Joaquin Multipurpose
Cooperative. The long name is a fancy title for the first large-scale cold storage
in the province that is open to all and it is not just for tomato but for all crops.
The facility is worth nearly 33.5 million pesos, funded by the World Bank through
DA’s PRDP, and will help preserve our harvest and protect us from fluctuating
market prices.

We have completed a crop warehouse in Solsona worth 4.3 million pesos and
started the construction of a Rice Processing Center in Sarrat valued at 50 million
pesos.

We sincerely and deeply thank all at the Department of Agriculture led by

Secretary Kiko Laurel in ensuring that Ilocos Norte remains self-sufficient in terms
of our most basic needs.

We are looking forward to the completion of the Fishery Cold Storage facility in
Laoag, valued at 20 million pesos, with a 3-metric ton capacity thanks to the
Philippine Fisheries Development Authority led by Acting General Manager Atty.
Glen Pangapalan.

We have extended assistance to over 1,300 of our kakailian in coastal

communities by providing 13.6 million pesos worth of fishing paraphernalia,
such as motorized bangkas, nets, cages, and coolers.

Despite all this assistance, extreme weather continues to be a serious threat to

our farmers and fishermen. For our typhoon victims, we allocated 17.2 million
pesos to provide cattle, goats, piglets, and animal feeds benefiting 840
individuals. These efforts are aimed at helping our farmers recover and rebuild
their livelihoods.

We thank all at the Provincial Agriculture Office led by Engr. Tere Bacnat and all
at INAFEC led by Atty. Pancho Jose.

The Livestock component of our flagship program, Agri ka Dito!, has provided
piglets, goats, free-range chickens, and production support worth almost 31.5
million pesos for nearly 6,000 livestock farmers and 88 grower associations.

Our efforts to curb the rabies epidemic have been equally significant. Through
our Rabies Eradication and Control Program, canine rabies cases have decreased
by 37% from last year to this year. Additionally, Ilocos Norte remains free from
Avian Influenza and ASF, ensuring the continued safety and health of the
province’s livestock sector.

We thank all at the Provincial Veterinary Office led by Dr. Loida Valenzuela.
We will continue to build a future for our dearest farmers and fisherfolk that
offers more reason to continue in the challenging agricultural sector. Patuloy
nating iaangat ang mga magsasaka at mangingisda.

The champions of our agriculture—the farmers and fisherfolk who nourish our
communities and sustain our future (all to your back, right part):

Agyamankami kadakayo. Palakpakantayo ida apo.

-Provincial Integrated Fisheries, Aquatic Resources, and Management Council

represented by Jose Rachion
-Pasuquin Onion Garlic Agriculture Cooperative, represented by Wilfredo Valdez
-Ilocos Norte Federation of Mango Growers represented by Ricardo Tolentino
-4H Club Federated of Ilocos Norte represented by Marvin Bea
-Bacarra Multipurpose Cooperative represented by Jonalyn Macalipis
-Ilocos Norte Local Farmer Technician represented by Elnora Gonzales
Ilocos Norte Corn Association, Inc. represented by Villamor Tabios
-San Joaquin Multipurpose Cooperative represented by Elena Garcia
-Crisner Integrated Farm represented by Crisner Lagazo
- and Federated Rural Improvement Club of Ilocos Norte represented by Emely
Ragaza

INVESTMENTS

The Ilokano diaspora has played a crucial role in ensuring that Ilokanos thrive
across the world while maintaining our shared values.

Saan man sa mundo, may Ilokano, and we express our deep gratitude to the
Ilokano communities that have supported our tourism and trade missions by
connecting us with fellow Ilokanos who have pledged to return home and
contribute to Ilocos Norte.

Nalanglangto nga ekonomia.

We need all Ilokanos in fields such as healthcare, engineering, academe,

entrepreneurship, hospitality, information technology, and agriculture. To all my
fellow Ilokanos across the world, may you reconnect with your roots, share your
expertise, and invest in our people to contribute to the growth of our Province.

While remittances are vital to our local economy, remittances also lead to a
crippling cycle of dependency and complacency. We encourage our kakailian
abroad to not only provide for their families but also to invest their hard-earned
money into local enterprises. The best support we can give our loved ones is to
capacitate and empower them to be independent. Our remittances may be better
served in small businesses to create jobs and livelihoods for more of our
kakailian. Mas sulit ang pagod kung tutulungan ang mga kababayan na
makapagtrabaho dito sa atin at magtagumpay gaya ninyo.

For over a century, “brain drain” has been a social and economic ill of our
community. Let us aim to keep our best and brightest right here in Ilocos Norte.
Or at least make sure they eventually come back home to Ilocos Norte.

Let it be known: PGIN is open for business and we are pleased to host two
business organizations from Hawaii: the Pacific Century Fellows and the Filipino
Chamber of Commerce in Hawaii. This initiative highlights our hope to usher in
a new era of trade and investment for Ilocos Norte, led by global Ilokanos.

Furthermore, Seafood City Supermarket whose stores are located across the US
and Canada and East West Marketing in Hawaii are actively working to import
food products from Ilocos Norte, promoting our local goods and expanding our
presence in international markets.

In collaboration with MMSU, we are coordinating the return of the Student

Internship Program with the University of Hawaii's Ilokano Language and
Literature Department, offering an opportunity for second-generation Ilokano-
Hawaiienos to reconnect with their Ilokano heritage.

AC Energy and Amihan Renewable Energy Corporation are leading the charge
with a commitment to generate more than 360 megawatts of power, creating
1,500 jobs by 2025.

In addition, Grab Delivery started its operation in May 2024, employing almost
40 local riders and administrative staff, while Sutherland PH is set to launch its
operations in San Nicolas IT Park, providing at least 300 jobs.

Looking ahead, Park Inn by Radisson is projected to establish a presence in the

province by the first quarter of 2028.

Moreover, the total renewable energy capacity in the pipeline amounts to 4.2
gigawatts, combining the contributions of Aboitiz Power, Sta. Clara Energy
Corporation, North Maharlika Energy Corporation, Buhawind, and BlueFloat.

These projects are expected to generate at least 44,000 direct and indirect jobs
throughout construction and operations.

We are working with INEC to enter into contracts with renewable generation
corporations to increase our renewable energy portfolio and further decrease our
electricity rates in the province.
By 2025, the 10MW embedded solar plant of One Ilocos Norte Energy Corporation
and the 20MW Bangui Wind Farm of ACEN will start supplying energy to INEC.

We will also improve rural electrification and our rural connections to water
utilities.

We actively assist indicative investors, from scouting ideal locations to securing

permits, and will continue to support investors through every phase of their
Business. Once again, Ilocos Norte is open for business. We take care of our
investors.

The Philippine Ports Authority is advancing infrastructure projects to ensure the

Port of Currimao is equipped for the operations of Offshore Wind Energy Projects,
including 13 offshore wind energy service contracts.

Early next year, we welcome our first SM, with whom we launched special
recruitment activities to ensure our kakailian are given priority. We engaged with
the local community to make sure that SM aligns with Ilokanos and the Ilokano
way of life.

In addition, government and privately-owned properties are available for

partnership, lease, or sale, unlocking potential for further investments.

Currently, Dap-ayan and Capitol Extension are open for lease, with the first floor
of the Dap-ayan already fully occupied. To enhance our collaborative efforts, we
encourage government agencies to establish their offices at both buildings.

Kadagiti amin, nga Ilokano, a little bit goes a long way back home. May we invest,
create jobs, capacitate our people, and develop our economy. We will be the
commercial hub of Northern Luzon.

To our fellow Ilokanos around the world, we ask that you share all that you have
learnt and share all that you have earned. Let us come back home. The sun shines
brighter and the future is sunnier in Ilocos Norte. Hihintayin namin ang inyong
pagbabalik kakailian.

We thank all at the INvest Office led by Soya Bueno.

MSME

Our people have always embodied a pioneering spirit, continuously innovating

the products born from our hard work. Driven by entrepreneurial ingenuity,
Ilokano products have not only been elevated but transformed. Adadu pay a
kíta.
Our MSMEO continues to support local businesses by helping them improve their
product quality and expanding their market reach. More than 1,000 local
businesses received assistance through our programs, including the BuyIN
Sunday Market, Producer to Consumer, and the Mataginayon a Progreso-
Assistance to Start-ups and Small Businesses.

Through the Producer to Consumer or P2C program, we generated a total of 16

million pesos in sales in the last year.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mayora Joy Belmonte of Quezon City and
Mayor Francis Zamora of San Juan City for their friendship and partnership in our
P2C program.

Meanwhile, cumulative sales from various trade fairs—including our perennial

Sunday Market Bazaar, the Norwegian Cruise Trade Fair, and the R1AA Meet—
also reached 9.6 million pesos.

“Mercato ni Nanay Ces,” of the Office of our dearest Vice Governor Cecilia
Araneta-Marcos, also generated revenue of nearly 8 million pesos.

The award-winning Ilocos Norte MSME Incubation Center has successfully served
nearly 1,200 homegrown enterprises, offering a range of services from
mentorship to business registration to a co-working space for micro business
owners. The center will expand its reach through the Shared Service Facility
program, securing 4 million pesos in funding from DTI. We thank all at DTI led
by Sec. Cristina Aldequer-Roque and PD Amy Galvez.

Moreover, 20 training sessions, seminars, and workshops have engaged more

than 4,000 participants, covering essential topics such as Good Manufacturing
Practices, Business Pitching and Negotiation, and Product Packaging.

Among the many success stories, we are especially proud of manang Susan
Pajarillo of Sam’s Sugarcane Juice Shop (to your back middle), who began her
journey at our local trade fairs. Today, she is set to open her store at SM and is
preparing to expand through bottling and franchising.

Kilalanin din natin ang mga Ilokano innovators na mas maunlad na ang
kabuhayan. (all to your back middle):

-Mylene Galano of Mylan’s Bakeshop

-Agnes Asuncion of Agnes Dragonfruit Products
-Glendan Tapec of Glenda’s Loom Weaving
-and Jenifer Bombase of Laring’s Meat and Food Products
Nearly 900,000 pesos in assistance has been distributed to the Asosasyon Dagiti
Agararamid Arak, supporting the livelihoods of our wine artisans. On the other
hand, our Mataginayon a Progreso Assistance Program has enriched over 1,000
micro and small business owners with 5 million pesos of cash grants to tide them
over slow periods.

We thank all at MSME Office led by Elma Gabriel.

EMPLOYMENT AND LIVELIHOOD

Dagiti Ilokano ket nagaget ken naanus—we are known for being industrious
and resilient. These qualities define us, and our commitment to supporting our
workers goes beyond ensuring their mere employment. We empower our skilled
Ilokano workforce to contribute meaningfully in fields where they can truly excel.

We have successfully placed more than 7,000 jobseekers, with 760 Ilokanos hired
on the spot which reflects our peoples’ competencies and job readiness.

Moreover, the Saguip Nars provided job placements for 140 nurses, reaffirming
our commitment to health services while creating opportunities for our local
healthcare professionals.

Meanwhile, our TUPAD program under DOLE provided emergency livelihood

support to more than 8,000 beneficiaries, ensuring that even in challenging
times, our workers have meaningful work.

With companies coming into our Province, our priority is to ensure the increased
absorption of our labor force into new businesses: Ilokanos first.

Our landmark employment legislation mandates that businesses in Ilocos Norte

must employ at least 80% of their workforce from qualified residents. As we
strengthen our economy we also ensure that the benefits of development are felt
by our own people. Mas marami na ang oportunidad para sa mas maliwanag
na kinabukasan.

We thank all at PESO led by Liz Atuan.

HUMAN RESOURCES

We enhanced our workforce at PGIN through effective hiring and promotion. New
hires have increased and we have promoted more than 200 employees in the past
year alone, primarily at our hospitals. Ngunit kailangan pa rin natin ng mas
maraming doktor at nars para sa ating mga lolo at lola, mga bata, at mga
may kapansanan.
We have supported our contractual employees by periodically increasing the
minimum wage at PGIN, from 9,000 in 2019 to 15,700 pesos starting 2025, to
provide living wages with which they could support their families.

We thank all at HR led by Fe Siazon and Irene Bautista at OG.

SOCIAL SERVICES

We are committed to supporting every structure of our community. In every

challenge, we extend a hand to our fellow Ilokanos, embodying our distinct
solidarity in both hardship and success— sa hirap at sa tagumpay.

We have provided wheelchairs to more than 250 Ilokanos, restoring their mobility
and independence. Meanwhile, we have ensured continuous support for the daily
needs of 200 senior citizens and 300 PWDs through monthly pensions.

In response to disasters, we gave immediate assistance to over 20 fire victims.

Additionally, we granted 23 million pesos from the NHA’s Emergency Housing
Assistance Program to help 1,700 families affected by super typhoons rebuild
their homes and recover. Thank you to all at NHA led by GM Joeben Tai.

We also extended 3.8 million pesos in aid to nearly 400 families through the
DHSUD, reinforcing our commitment to rebuilding lives and homes. Thank you
to all at DHSUD led by Sec. Jerry Acuzar.

We supported over 13,000 kakailian, including 500 fisherfolk affected by the

Balikatan Exercise, through 38.8 million pesos from the PGIN Trust Fund,
providing them with relief. On the other hand, we engaged 1,600 victims of
Typhoon "Egay" in cash-for-work programs funded by 4.85 million pesos,
creating temporary jobs and providing financial assistance.

We have provided 50.7 million pesos to nearly 12,000 farmers affected by "Egay"
and 1.6 million pesos to 400 farmers impacted by El Niño, helping them sustain
their livelihoods.

After "Julian," we immediately distributed more than 43,000 family food packs
from the Provincial Government stockpile, supplemented by DSWD. We thank
Secretary Rex Gatchalian and RD Lala Gopalan and everyone at DSWD for helping
us.

We continue to support families in need by providing burial assistance, with a

total of 1.8 million pesos allocated to ensure that no one faces additional
hardship amidst tragedy.
To aid our transport sector, we distributed 3,000 pesos to 14,500 drivers, along
with uniforms and bucket hats, totaling more than 52 million pesos in assistance.
We reaffirm our commitment to helping them navigate rising costs of fuel.

Through these efforts, we ensure each and every Ilokano receives the care and
support they need. Lagi kaming handang tumulong sa inyo.

We thank all at PSWDO led by Rochelle Gajes, and all at OBA led by Aleth
Policarpio.

TOURISM

Global citizens deserve world-class experiences and services, and Ilocos Norte is
proud to offer its unique hospitality to our returning kakailian. We have
continued our initiatives to improve infrastructure, develop and enhance tourist
attractions, and promote our province globally. Napintas ti probinsiatayo.

Ilocos Norte was honored as the grand winner of the 2023 ATOP Pearl Awards for
the best video in tourism promotions, featuring “Lolita, I’m IN,” and for the most
coveted award in the Best Tourism-Oriented LGU-Province Category.

Looking ahead, Ilocos Norte is set to make history at the ATOP 2024 Awards,
achieving finalist status in multiple categories:

-Best Tourism-Oriented LGU-Province

-Best Tourism Promotions- for both Video and Brochure
-and Best Cultural Event for the Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals.

In the DOT Philippine Tourism Awards 2024, the province was nominated for
Tourism Destination of the Year, both for the Province of Ilocos Norte and for the
Suba Sand Dunes of Paoay.

In our commitment to preserving and promoting our cultural identity, the Pinili
Inabel Center was established in partnership with Congressman Angelo Marcos
Barba and the DPWH District II. Agyaman-kami, Tito Angelo.

Meanwhile, ongoing infrastructure projects include the development of Scenic

View Deck in Solsona, Camp Site in Nueva Era, and the rehabilitation of the
Currimao Tabacalera in partnership with DPWH, along with the organization and
construction of Commercial Stalls at the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation.

Additionally, we have started Phase II of the Tanap-Avis Falls Development and

soon the development of Paoay Lake and Paoay Sand Dunes in partnership with
TIEZA to the tune of 180 million pesos. We thank all at TIEZA led by COO Mark
Lapid.
Earlier this year, the Tourist Rest Area from the DOT, the first in Region I, was
officially turned over to the Local Government Unit of Pagudpud.

And yes, I have not forgotten about our golf course. We will revive the beautiful
Paoay golf course along with a casino and welcome our international flights
again.

We thank all at DOT led by Sec. Cristina Frasco and all at TPB led by COO Marga
Nograles.

In 2023, Ilocos Norte experienced a tourism surge, with arrivals exceeding 2022
levels and tourism receipts reaching 8.9 billion pesos. Notably, day visitors
increased to almost 3.6 million. The number of foreign tourists has increased as
well as air travel.

The resumption of Cebu Pacific flights from Manila to Laoag has helped
convenience and affordability for travelers. Meanwhile, Skypasada has launched
Laoag to Basco flights.

In addition, cruise tourism has resumed in Ilocos Norte, with the MV Norwegian
Jewel being the largest cruise ship to dock at the recently modernized Port of
Currimao.

Our participation in the 34th Philippine Travel Mart, the longest-running travel
expo in the country, yielded over 41 million pesos, an impressive increase of 6
million pesos from last year.

Natatangi ang Ilocos Norte. We believe Ilocos Norte tourism is second to none
and we aim to etch our position as a premiere tourist destination in the country.

We thank all at the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office led by Xavier Ruiz.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Ilocos Norte is dedicated to offering facilities that meet the highest standards for
both business and recreation. Our focus on developing new facilities is borne out
of our drive to become a premier destination. Progreso a sigurado.

As evidence of our progress, our “Big 3:” the construction of FEM Memorial
Stadium has been completed at a total cost of one billion pesos; the Dap-ayan
Commercial Building at 600 million pesos; and the Provincial Capitol Extension
Building at 360 million pesos.

We continue to improve the Ilocandia Cultural Center in Batac City which will serve
as our mini CCP.
The construction of the Ilocos Norte Sports Institute and Research (INSPIRE) has
begun which will be our sports center adjacent to Marcos Stadium.

Along with DPWH, we have spent over 1 billion pesos on our third bridge
connecting Laoag and San Nicolas to the east of Gilbert bridge. This will ensure
our commercial centers of Laoag and SN are connected with ease for put
kakailian. We extend our gratitude to all at DPWH led by our kakailian Sec Manny
Baonoan, RD Ronnel Tan and DEs Glenn Miguel and James Ferrer.

The Ilocos Norte Central Transport Hub, which will integrate all our PUVS and be
our first organized transport terminal, has commenced at 380 million pesos.
Thank you to all at DOTr led by Sec. Jaime Bautista.

In terms of aviation, the renovation of the Passenger Terminal at the Laoag

International Airport has begun, with funding from the DOTr amounting to 150
million pesos. As we prepare to welcome international flights to Ilocos Norte,
especially the Honolulu to Laoag route, we have also commenced the Second
Phase of the asphalt overlay of the Laoag International Airport with funding
amounting to 595 million pesos from DOTr.

Furthermore, our Solar Rooftop Project, in partnership with INEC, has finished
equipping 7 PGIN buildings and 23 DepEd schools with Solar PV Systems. For this
60-million peso project, we thank Senator Imee Marcos and all at NEA led by
Administrator Nani Almeda.

Lastly, the construction of the New Viaduct Project at Brgy. Pancian, Pagudpud,
is progressing with Phase I completed. We extend our gratitude to Congressman
Sandro Marcos and his personnel for their support.

We thank all at PEO led by Engr. Lucy Domingo, all at MINC led by Atty. Nikki
Pilar, and all at INEC led by AGM Perry Martinez.

Handa na ang Ilocos Norte sa mas maraming pagbabago.

HEALTH

Time and again, we stand by our belief that health is fundamental to a thriving
community. When our people come back home, they must have access to quality
healthcare.

Our advancements in healthcare services, public health infrastructure, and

disease eradication underscore this commitment. Nataltalged nga Ilokano.

At the Governor Roque B. Ablan, Sr. Memorial Hospital, we established an Oxygen

Generation Plant worth 30 million pesos and expanded the OPD Building at
almost 10.6M pesos. Various improvements and repairs were accomplished to
the tune of 52.5 million pesos from our Development Fund.

We have operationalized our MRI Facility at GRBASMH worth 11.4 million pesos.

We have acquired a CT Scan machine, a Mammogram Machine, and procured

various other diagnostic, laboratory, surgical, and medical equipment for all our
hospitals with a total expenditure of 250 million pesos.

At Dingras District Hospital, the construction of hospital pathways, drainage

system, and repairs to the sewage treatment plant were completed worth 4.5
million pesos.

On the other hand, Bangui District Hospital is currently undergoing the

construction of a four-storey building, which includes an Emergency Room,
Laboratory Room, Radiology Room, Operating Rooms, and Delivery Rooms
totalling 134 million pesos.

The Doña Josefa Edralin Marcos District Hospital saw the improvement of various
hospital facilities amounting to 8 million pesos.

At our Piddig District Hospital, we have begun construction on a four-storey

building at 42 million pesos.

Finally, Vintar District Hospital has achieved accreditation by the DOH as a

Primary Care Facility and Birthing Home Facility.

In the past year, we have hired 17 doctors and 16 other health professionals to
expand our medical workforce and cater to the increasing medical demands of
the Ilokano community.

Our doctors and nurses earned significant salary increases. Doctors under
contracts of service now earn at least 60,000 pesos, while nurses now earn at
least 30,000 pesos. We must retain our health professionals here in Ilocos Norte.

Ang kalusugan ay kaunlaran. Our future is as healthy as it is bright.

We thank Dr. Rogelio Balbag and Bokal Medel Gaoat

We thank all at PHO led by Dr. Rickson Balalio
We thank all at GRBASMH led by Dr. Arlene Ragasa
We thank all at Bangui District Hospital led by Dr. Elvin Alcoriza
We thank all at Marcos District Hospital led by Dr. Krista Manrique
We thank all at Dingras District Hospital led by Dr. Roland Andres
We thank all at Piddig District Hospital led by Dr. Che Laguatan
And we thank all at Vintar District Hospital led by Dr. Desiree Soriano.
Medical Assistance to Indigent Patients has been a priority, with a total allocation
of over 91 million pesos dedicated to supporting more than 13,000 beneficiaries.
This has been generously funded by Speaker Martin Romuldez Martin, Cong.
Sandro Marcos, Cong. Angelo Marcos Barba, Sen. Francis Tolentino, Sen. Bong
Go, Sen. Mark Villar, Sen. Koko Pimentel, Sen. Sonny Angara, and Probinsyano
Ako Partylist.

In terms of emergency healthcare, six ambulances were provided to PGIN,

generously donated by Senator Imee Marcos. We also extend our gratitude to
PCSO for providing additional new ambulances to the province.

Agyamankami, Apo Senadora Imee Marcos and General Manager Mel Robles.

To enhance service efficiency and connectivity, free Wi-Fi connections by DICT-

Region I have been installed in all PGIN-managed hospitals. We have endorsed
and cascaded the use of the e-Gov super app. Thanks to all at DICT led by Sec.
Ivan Uy and RD Wikz Gaudan.

Under our mental health center "Speak Up, I’m Here," we offered tele-counseling
and face-to-face services to about 430 clients. Furthermore, mental health
medicine was provided to 40 beneficiaries. We see that mental health is still an
issue in Ilocos Norte and a reason to support one another and build real
relationships.

Our nutrition statistics for preschoolers show clear improvements across the
province, with a decrease in the percentage of underweight, stunted, and wasted.
Additionally, the rate of overweight children has slightly decreased.

We thank all at our Nutrition Office led by Elma Irapta.

ENVIRONMENT

Narimrimat nga aglawlaw. A total of 9 million pesos will be distributed by

December 2024, with more than 430 BROs already hired to support our
reforestation initiatives.

Furthermore, the Green Wall and Blue Wall Project encompasses a total of almost
200 hectares that includes the coffee plantation in Pagudpud, the mangrove
plantation in Pasuquin, and the fruit-bearing tree plantation sites in Solsona,
Dingras, Badoc, and Nueva Era.

To date, we have established a total of nearly 400 hectares and planted 440,000
seedlings to meet the requirements of our private sector partners.
The PGIN was recognized by the DENR Region 1 as the BEST ENVIRONMENTAL
PARTNER for its various environmental initiatives.

In terms of quarry permits, we have issued 25 Commercial sand and gravel

permits (CSAG), 22 existing Industrial Sand and Gravel Permits (ISAG) , 8 earth-
moving permits, 36 Special Permits for government projects, and 2 government
gratuitous permits.

Quarry collections for January to August of this year were almost 56M leading to
an increase of 90% with four months to go.

With MGB R1, our Provincial quarry office deputized 110 personnel from PGIN,
PNP, Marines, and barangay representatives which authorizes them to implement
mining laws and ordinances.

Lastly, the People’s Survival Fund, under the Climate Change Commission,
awarded their largest grant ever of Php 305 million to us for projects focused on
sustainable agriculture and natural resource management.

Pangako namin ang mas malinis at mas ligtas na Ilocos Norte.

We thank ENRO led by Engr. Pete Agcaoili and Joegie Jimenez, and all at Provincial
Quarry Office led by Atty. Yvette Leynes

EDUCATION

We hear stories of Ilokano parents who leave their children to work overseas so
they can support their children’s education.

Our efforts to create a learning province where students excel is our way of
recognizing these sacrifices. To our overseas Ilokanos, we owe it to you to build
a better Ilocos Norte where you can finally return and reunite with your children.
Narimrimat ti, masakbayan dagiti agtutubo.

PGIN proudly supports 1,800 scholars through our education programs, with an
allocation of 48 million pesos. Our scholarships now include Academic, Tech-
Voc, STEM, Agriculture and Fishery, Arts, Sports, Sirib Youth Leadership, Doctor
of Medicine, and Juris Doctor.

We celebrate the remarkable achievements of our scholars: (to your back middle):

-Dee Vanna Galacgac, 1st place in the August 2024 Food Technologist Licensure
Examination.
To further nurture our students’ skills, we allocated 1.4 million pesos for sports
equipment to schools with a Special Program in Sports, promoting athletic
development.

We have hosted major sporting events, including the 2024 Region 1 Athletic
Association Meet, the NBTC North Luzon Regional Championship, and we are
excited to welcome 12,000 delegates from all over the Philippines as we host
Palarong Pambansa next year in May.

Our Ilokano students continue to shine on the global stage, exemplified by their
victories in prestigious competitions such as the World International
Mathematical Olympiad.

Congratulations to San Nicolas National High School, Sarrat National High School,
Shamrock Elementary School, and Bacarra National Comprehensive High School
namely: (to your back)

-Gian Jann Ulep

-Brian Jansen Vallejo
-Allen Iver Barroga
-Zyrene Angelica Dulluog
-Jushiem Barroga
-Natalie Margaret Balisacan
-Ma. Cassandra Reich Duque
-Crizen Zhian P. Duldulao
-Khloe Cassidy G. Ignacio
-Patrick Jhames Valenzuela
-Ezekiel Arellano
-John Bernard Yanos

In Ilocos Norte, we can achieve greatness. Dito sa Ilocos Norte, natutupad ang
mga pangarap. Kayatayo!

We thank all at INYDO and the Provincial Education Office led by Will Sib-at, and
all at the Ilocos Norte Sports Development Office led by Helen Domingo.

FINANCE

We are committed to sound financial management, and we are pleased to report

strong progress in local revenue generation and resource mobilization.

The appraisal and assessment of buildings and machinery, particularly the Bayog
and Amihan Windmills, resulted in total revenue collectibles of 324 million pesos.
In 2023, our total income from local sources reached 430 million pesos, which is
nearly a 150 % increase over our target of 290 million pesos.

From January to September 2024, we collected 380 million pesos, showing an

increase over our target of 302 million pesos. Our LFC will continue to improve
collection efficiency each year and we will digitize our tax collection.

For the fourth consecutive year, COA awarded the Provincial Government of Ilocos
Norte an "unmodified opinion" on its 2023 Annual Report, reflecting the
province’s commitment to sound financial management and governance
practices.

We thank all at PTO led by Josie Calajate, all at the Provincial Budget Office led by
Lea Blas, and all at the Provincial Accounting Office led by Debrah Pacunayen.

PEACE AND ORDER

While Ilocos Norte remains peaceful and orderly, we remain vigilant of any illegal
behavior most especially in the coming election period. Together with the PNP,
we will protect our kakailian. Let this be a stern warning to those with ill
intentions, we will enforce the law to the full extent. Nobody shall be spared.

ACHIEVEMENTS

In 2023, Ilocos Norte achieved the lowest poverty incidence in the country among
provinces, with rates of 0.3% among families and 0.5% among individuals. We will
strive to make sure these numbers truly reflect the reality of all Ilokanos. Dapat
ramdam natin lahat ang pag-unlad.

We have toiled to lower our electricity rates. We have promised and finally seen
our rates decrease from 14.2 pesos in 2023 to single digit 9.9 pesos in 2024. Sa
wakas, mas mura na ang kuryente sa Ilocos Norte.

We congratulate all at INEC for being awarded the highest Triple A Categorization
of electric cooperatives by NEA.

Every town in Ilocos Norte is now equipped with fire trucks, marking a historic
first for the Province. We thank all at DILG led by then Sec. Benhur Abalos.

PGIN has been awarded the third Seal of Good Local Governance for its dedication
to transparency, accountability, and service excellence.

Our MSMEO received the 2024 Presidential Award for Outstanding Development
Partner from the Department of Trade and Industry for its exceptional support in
enhancing market access for MSMEs.
Our PESO was named the Best PESO in Region I and is a nominee for the National
Best PESO 2023 Awards.

I would like to deeply and sincerely thank all of our department heads for making
all of our achievements possible. You guys do the hard work on a daily basis. And
of course, to each and every one of our personnel at PGIN, my entire PGIN family,
Dios ti agngina. Thank you.

We thank all at Legal Office led by Atty. Erme Labayog.

We thank all at Provincial Assessor’s Office led by Ms Evalandia Duyor.
We thank all at Planning Office led by Engr. Pete Agcaoili.
We thank all at General Service Office led by Miriam Ranchez.
We thank all at Library led by Eric Coloma.
We thank all at Provincial Jail led by Benilda Sadian.
We thank all at Gender and Development Office led by Janet London.
We thank all at IT Office led by Willie Lorenzo and JP Calamaan.
We thank all at Resiliency Office led by Marcel Tabije and Randy Nicolas.
We thank all at SP Secretariat led by Mildred Lamoste.
Lastly, we thank all at CMO led by Gervy Gumarit. Thanks to EJ and our
speechwriters for writing this speech.

We are deeply grateful to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by our Vice Governor
Cecilia Araneta-Marcos for the support to our Administration in the enactment of
vital legislative measures.

COMPONENT LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

Today, we also celebrate the contributions of every local government unit as they
continue to shape a province that we can all be proud of.

Adams: for leading the cultivation of high-value cacao crops in Ilocos Norte.
Bacarra: for being a Seal of Good Local Governance Awardee for five consecutive
years.

Badoc: for receiving the Plaque of Commendation for attaining drug-free

workplace status.

Bangui: for being the first local government unit in the province to pass the Local
Energy and Efficiency Conservation Plan.

Banna: for setting a national precedent in cervical cancer prevention by achieving

an impressive 93.16% HPV vaccination coverage for girls aged 9 to 14.

Batac City: for receiving special recognition from the Department of Health-
National Nutrition Council for maintaining a consistent reduction in malnutrition.
Burgos: for establishing the province's first Solar Salt Production facility.

Carasi: for being the National Top-Performing Municipality in Strengthening Local

Government Finance for 2022 to 2023.

Currimao: for being named the Best Environmental Partner of DENR in Region I.

Dingras: for receiving the Solid Waste Excellence Award and the Waste-to-
Resource Excellence Award from DENR-EMB Region I.

Dumalneg: for receiving the 2023 Gawad Kalásag Seal of Excellence Awards and
being recognized as the 2023 National Subaybayani Top Overall Performer.

Laoag City: for being recognized as one of the top 3 LGUs nationwide in the
Subaybayani Award.

Marcos: for being an SGLG back-to-back Awardee and earning the Subaybayani
Award at the regional level.

Nueva Era: for establishing the Nueva Era Diagnostic Center and achieving First
Place in Transit Time for Newborn Screening at the regional level.

Pagudpud: for inaugurating the newly constructed MDRRMO Building/Emergency

Operations Center, which enhanced its disaster response capabilities.

Paoay: for being the first LGU in Ilocos Norte with a Local Public Transport Route
Plan and for being honored as the 2023 Green Governance Excellence Awardee.

Pasuquin: Congratulations to Pasuquin for achieving back-to-back SGLG Awards

and being named the Regional Champion in the 60th Fish Conservation Week
Contest.

Piddig: for supporting the Piddig Basi Multipurpose Cooperative through

sustainable projects, increasing farmer-members income, and raising its tobacco
excise tax shares.

Pinili: for being recognized as an SGLG Awardee and for completing the Pinili
Inabel Center in honor of our dearest national living treasure Magdalena Gamayo.

San Nicolas: for being awarded as a Model LGU in compliance with the Ecological
and Solid Waste Management Act and for achieving 1st Runner-Up in the National
Literacy Award 2024-Regional Category.
Sarrat: for being recognized as the National Overall Top Performer for
Subaybayani and successfully establishing a Primary Health Care Facility to
enhance local health services.

Solsona: for being honored as a 2023 Seal of Good Local Governance National
Awardee and winning multiple Regional Kalusugan Awards from DOH.

and Vintar: for establishing the Handog Eskwela Program and implementing the
"Ragsak, Ayat ken Dungngo Serbisyo Caravan" program, delivering vital social
services to the community.

Congratulations to our 23 towns led by our mayors.

CLOSING

The challenge before us is to build an Ilocos Norte where leaving is no longer a

necessity because our home is a place of opportunity. We need you Ilokanos—
our doctors and nurses, our IT experts, our engineers, and our creatives. We need
all of you here at home. Rest assured, we will welcome you back home with open
arms. My office will always have an open-door policy.

To all my fellow Ilokanos across the globe, I call upon you to come back home.
Now is the time for us to return to our roots. Now is the time to teach and
empower our people. Now is the time to invest in Ilocos Norte. Now is our time.

In 2019, when I took office as your governor, I was relatively unaware and
unconfident. Together, we have endured multiple typhoons and a historic
pandemic that shut down our society as we knew it. These past 5 years have
taken me to my lowest points, to my darkest moments, and made me question
everything. I have made mistakes and for those, I apologize. But many years ago,
I made a solemn promise to you that every decision I make will only have one
basis, one criteria: what is best for the Ilokano. What is the best for you. And
what is the greatest good for the greatest number? I have kept that promise. I
have never put myself or my interest over yours.

I ask you to do the same. Let us think beyond ourselves and beyond our families.
Let us think of our communities. Let us think of our people, all of them. The state
of our beloved province remains strong yet we remain unsatisfied. We remain
anxious for greater progress that is sustainable, equitable, and truly felt by all.

Tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang ating serbisyo sa mga Ilokano: MANGBIAG,

MANGPADUR-AS, MANGPASANTAK!
Let us build our economy to be ready for the future. Let us build the Ilocos Norte
we dream of. Let us build the Ilocos Norte that will take care of our children and
their children.

I thank you for granting me the greatest honor of my life: to serve you and our
almost 610,000 kakailian. It is a responsibility that I do not take lightly.

My dearest kakailian in Ilocos Norte, simmangbayen ti narimrimat, a

masakbayan.

Dios unay ti agngina. (End)