Our being here is like a grand reunion. Meeting someone, we usually say: “Kumusta ka?” Hence, it is also proper that we start our gathering with the question: “Kumusta na ang Sibugay?” Let us backtrack a bit in our memory lane.

Are we in a dreamland or a nightmare? It is said that “a plan without action is but a daydream while an action without a plan is a nightmare.”
When we took over in 2010 Sibugay was tagged as one of the worst governed provinces in the country. For a start, it was a nightmare. But that also prompted us to dream for transformation.

In 2011 we translated our dream into plans on what remedial measures to be done. We introduced structural and policy reforms. We resorted to political will.

For two years we journeyed together. We shared pains, frustrations, hopes and grew in determination to reach a common goal together. The Provincial Governor’s Office together with the Office of the Provincial Administrator (OPAD), worked together to implement what we deemed fit for Sibugay’s general welfare, especially on matters of sustainable development through economic enhancement programs, tourism, communication technology, local government affairs, sound public administration and management, promotion of career development and personnel development.

As your Governor, I ensured that proper service is delivered to all Sibugaynons because I represent Sibugay while you, Sibugaynons, constitute the Province.

I love Sibugay. When you elected me, I vowed to dedicate my life for your welfare. Despite big challenges, you provide me the strength and courage to fulfill the dream of every Sibugaynon family for a better life. I dedicate my life for you.
For another time, I repeat that “We are here now for we are bound by a shared vision and common responsibility that brought us to this momentum.” In the first year of my governance – our administration has harmonized and unified our strength that impact growth and development.

As a result of our concerted effort, this 2012 Sibugay received the Seal of Good Housekeeping from DILG or a governance of Transparency and Accountability that is also Participatory. By this we got a new tag as the best governed province in Region IX with a P7Million reward.
DILG’s confidence with us is high. With DILG’s PAMANA Program, the MOA Signing between Sibugay and DILG Regional Director Albutazil of the P20Million fund for infrastructures and livelihood is set anytime soon.

Together we faced our challenges with pride and honor. For this I say: “I am honored and proud to lead our people and to govern Sibugay.”

Sibugay’s transformation from the “worst governed” to the “best governed” did not come by accident. It is a fruit of committed hard work and careful planning.

It is also a fruit of inspiration because around this time I met a man of dreams and great vision named DILG Sec. Jesse M. Robredo. Today is his burial. It is in his honor that I wish my 2012 SOPA to be presented according to the framework of Good Housekeeping. Though we deeply grieve for his loss, I wish his legacy and inspiration to live on in our drive for transformation.

So, to satisfy your curiosity why we got the Seal of Good Housekeeping and the new tag as the “best governed province” in Region 9, let me apprise you of its details, not according to my own words but the objective observation of DILG Evaluators... read more

SOPA 2011