Opening Statement

As we gather today to celebrate our community’s progress, I would like to shine

a light on the outstanding achievements of our municipal offices. . . . . . . . .
Financial Administration, Transparency, and Accountability
For two consecutive years, the Municipal Accounting Office has received
an Unqualified Opinion from the Commission on Audit (COA) regarding our local
government unit's financial statements for the calendar years 2022 and 2023.
This significant achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to
transparency and fiscal responsibility. Ang tagumpay na ito ay isang patunay ng
ating kakayahan na mapanatili ang malinis at maaasahang financial records, na
nagbibigay ng tiwala sa ating mga stakeholders.
Moreover, our team continues to invest in learning and development. Just
this past April, members attended the 15th Northern Luzon Geographical
Conference in Vigan City, focusing on "Fiscal Management Under the New
Normal." This initiative equips our staff with strategies to tackle the ever-
evolving challenges of public financial management. In May, Sir Lito Balawa
participated in the 19th Northern Luzon Geographical Conference in Baguio City,
further enhancing our capacity for innovation in local government accounting.
Furthermore, the Municipal Budget Office has exemplified exceptional
fiscal management. Our annual budgets have seen a careful recalibration, from
₱138,559,853.00 in 2022 to ₱119,304,462.55 in 2023, and ₱127,504,653.46 for
2024. This meticulous planning reflects our responsive approach to the
community’s needs, ensuring sustainable governance.
As we continue to adapt, budget distribution by functional activity shows
our shifting priorities. In 2022, general services received ₱94,593,167.30, while
by 2024, that allocation was recalibrated to ₱63,158,455.01, emphasizing our
increased focus on economic development.
Plus, our participation in high-impact training—like the Digital
Transformation for Strengthening LGU Public Financial Management in Boracay—
ensures we are equipped with the latest tools for efficient financial management.
Ang mga pagsasanay na ito ay nagpapalakas ng ating kakayahan at nagpapakita
ng ating dedikasyon na lumikha ng mas magandang kinabukasan para sa ating
mga mamamayan.
Now, in the fiscal year 2022-2023, we achieved a remarkable 20.37%
growth rate in locally sourced revenue collection, rising from ₱3,269,507.24 to
₱3,935,379.81. With a target of ₱2,800,000.00 for this year, our Municipal
Treasury Team exceeded expectations with total collections reaching
₱2,880,010.00 as of July 2024. This level of performance translates to an
impressive efficiency rate of 102.86%.
The office's commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. We were
recognized as Top 1 among all fifth-class municipalities in Cagayan Valley for
collection efficiency of business tax for fiscal year 2022 and again for year-on-
year growth in total locally sourced revenues for fiscal year 2023. This
recognition is a testament to our dedication to prompt compliance and effective
financial management.
 To ensure sustained growth, the Municipal Treasury Office implemented
innovative strategies, such as updating the Revenue Code and conducting
community information campaigns. These proactive measures foster community
involvement and create a sense of ownership in local governance.
Disaster Preparedness and Resiliency
Moving on to disaster preparedness and resiliency, the Municipal Disaster
Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) is leading the way in
community safety and disaster preparedness. Since forming the MDRRM Council
in 2023, the office has strengthened its promise to protect residents through
smart planning and new ideas. Central to this effort is the Local Disaster Risk
Reduction and Management Operation Center, a state-of-the-art facility that will
coordinate all emergency operations. With advanced technology, this center
aims to speed up response times and improve teamwork during crises, ensuring
the community stays safe.
Since mid-2022, the MDRRMO has responded to over 880 emergencies,
showing their dedication and quick action. Operating 24/7, trained staff are
always ready to handle medical emergencies, natural disasters, and community
needs. This reliable support has made the MDRRMO a trusted part of the
municipality. Our MDRRM Team also focuses on building a culture of
preparedness by offering important training programs, which help local leaders
and residents gain the skills the team needs to respond effectively during
emergencies.
The MDRRMO pays special attention to vulnerable groups. After incidents
like fires, they quickly deliver food packs and shelter supplies to families in need,
making sure no one is forgotten. Plus, the early warning signage installed on
every road is one of our ways to spread awareness and prevent further
accidents. Moreover, the introduction of the Komunidad Early Warning System
has further improved readiness, providing real-time alerts that keep everyone
informed about the weather and its forecast.
During tough times, whether from typhoons or landslides, our MDRRM
team ensures that roads remain clear and accessible, allowing daily life to go on
without major interruptions. Our hard work has earned them recognition,
including awards from the Gawad KALASAG Assessment and Ambaguio SGLG
Assessment, which honor our outstanding disaster management efforts. Plus, our
dedication and on-time submission of situational, terminal, and incident
monitoring reports garnered them recognition from the PDDRM Office.
In Ambaguio, the MDRRMO is more than just an emergency response
team; it is a symbol of hope and a model of good governance. Our innovative
ideas and strong commitment to community welfare show how effective disaster
management can save lives and build resilience. As Ambaguio continues to excel
in disaster preparedness, it inspires other municipalities to follow its lead.

Social Protection and Sensitivity

 Moving forward, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office
(MSWDO) has been at the forefront of community-building and family welfare
programs, striving to create a better future for its citizens. Sa ilalim ng Family
and Community Welfare Program, a fund of Php 105,000 was utilized for
essential Programs, Projects, and Activities (PPAs). These initiatives included
providing food items, kitchen utensils, assorted supplies, and training, as well as
seminars and payouts to the most vulnerable families in the community.
In addition, the Anti-Illegal Drugs Program, funded with Php 80,000,
supported activities such as the Linggo ng Kabataan and Youth Camp. This
funding also allowed for the purchase of materials and food items for drug
surrenderees, ensuring holistic rehabilitation and recovery for those in need.
From January to December, the MSWDO conducted counseling and case
conferences for 11 families, addressing critical issues related to family problems,
child support, and custody. These interventions provided significant emotional
and legal support, helping families heal and find peaceful resolutions.
The Pre-Marriage Counseling Program, led by the MSWDO officers,
emphasized Responsible Parenthood, the Rights of the Child, and relevant family
laws. This ensured that soon-to-be couples were well-prepared for the challenges
and responsibilities of married life, guiding them on how to build strong, healthy
family relationships and promoting family preservation.
In partnership with Pantawid Pamilya, 689 active beneficiaries from 19
parent groups regularly participate in Family Development Sessions facilitated by
the Municipal Action Team. These sessions foster values such as financial
literacy, responsible parenting, and community involvement. Dahil dito, mas
nabibigyan ng pag-asa at gabay ang mga pamilya sa pagharap sa kanilang mga
hamon sa buhay.
Moreover, the Parent Effectiveness Service resumed its in-person sessions
at the Day Care centers, further aiding parents in becoming more effective in
their roles. This initiative is particularly important through Project T.E.E.N.S.,
which aims for holistic youth development in local schools like Dulli Integrated
School.
In celebration of National Family Week in September 2023, the MSWDO
organized a Couple’s Congress for Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries. Families
shared their testimonies about the highs and lows of being part of the program,
inspiring others to persevere. The Municipality of Ambaguio also actively
participated in the Annual Provincial Search for Idol Kong Pamilya and Idol Kong
Entrepreneur, showcasing the strength and resilience of local families.
Continuing its advocacy, the MSWDO was at the helm of Women’s Month
2023, promoting the theme “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.” Through
these efforts, the office empowered women across barangays, providing them
with the necessary tools to voice their experiences and continue the fight for
gender equality.
Additionally, the Child Development Centers (CDCs) in Ambaguio received
sustained attention, with 30 CDCs and their respective Child Development
Workers (CDWs) across different barangays playing vital roles in early childhood
education and care. The MSWDO ensured that the centers were well-equipped to
nurture the municipality’s youngest citizens.
Ang tagumpay ng MSWDO Ambaguio ay hindi lamang makikita sa dami ng
kanilang mga programa kundi sa impact na naidudulot nito sa buhay ng bawat
pamilya at komunidad sa Ambaguio.
This year, we proudly celebrated the National Disability Rights Week (NDR)
across various barangays, showcasing our commitment to inclusivity and
empowerment. Ang bawat barangay ay nagdaos ng mga programa na nagtataas
ng kamalayan tungkol sa mga karapatan ng mga taong may kapansanan,
kabilang ang mga seminar at workshops na nagtuturo ng mga paraan upang mas
mapaunlad ang kanilang mga kakayahan.
In addition to this, we achieved the Highly Functional LCAT-VAWC (Local
Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children) for FY
2023, reinforcing our dedication to safeguarding vulnerable populations. On
March 20, 2024, we held a General Assembly of Senior Citizens, where we
celebrated their invaluable contributions and discussed programs that enhance
their well-being.
Furthermore, our Women's Month Celebration on March 19, 2024,
highlighted the strength and resilience of women in our community through
engaging activities and discussions aimed at promoting gender equality. We also
conducted an Orientation on the Expanded Solo Parents’ Welfare Act of 2022,
ensuring that solo parents are aware of their rights and benefits, thus fostering a
more supportive environment for them.
These initiatives reflect our unwavering commitment to social justice and
the empowerment of all community members, creating a brighter, more inclusive
future for everyone.
Health and Nutrition Compliance and Responsiveness

Sustainable Quality Education

When it comes to sustaining quality education, the Department of
Education, Ambaguio District has been making great strides in its efforts to
improve education and the overall learning environment for its students. With a
total of 187 teaching and non-teaching personnel, including 16 School Heads, 16
Administrative Officers II and ADAS, and 155 dedicated teaching staff, the district
remains fully equipped to cater to the educational needs of its learners.
For School Year 2024-2025, there are 2,996 students enrolled across the
district, representing a balanced mix of 1,469 male and 1,527 female students.
The schools range from the bustling Ambaguio Central School, with 381
enrollees, to smaller schools like Hiket Elementary with 42 learners. Through
their tireless efforts, the teachers in these schools can foster the academic
growth and personal development of these young learners, ensuring that quality
education reaches even the most remote areas of the municipality.
Isa pang malaking milestone ay ang increase in Municipal Special
Education Fund (MSEF) teachers and their budget, na nagsimula sa 11 teachers
noong 2022 with a ₱66,000 budget, na nagint 14 ngayong 2024 having an
allocated budget amounting to ₱91,000. These funds significantly contribute to
the teaching force, allowing for more focused and quality education across the
district.
Notably, in 2024, the district allotted ₱183,000 for uniforms, training, and
food provisions during the provincial meet, ensuring that students are well-
prepared and motivated in their athletic endeavors, reinforcing the district’s
commitment not just to academics but to holistic development as well.
The district has also been active in improving the school infrastructure
with several significant projects, such as the ₱120,000 rehabilitation of canal
lining in Ambaguio Central School, and Ammoweg Elementary School’s ₱100,000
project for ground leveling and backfilling. Other schools also benefitted from
similar improvements, including new classroom construction, roofing repairs, and
the installation of learning parks. These infrastructure projects help create a
more conducive learning environment for the students and showcase the
collaborative efforts between the DepEd, the local government, and the
community.
With all these achievements, the DepEd Ambaguio District continues to
uplift the educational standards in the municipality, preparing the youth for a
brighter and more successful future.
Business Friendliness and Competitiveness

Public Safety and Order

Environmental Awareness and Management

Tourism, Heritage Development, Culture and Arts

Youth Development and Inclusivity

Agriculture and Food Security

Now, with the Municipal Agriculture Office, we have been at the forefront
of agricultural development, bringing substantial support and resources to our
local farmers.
Through the Rice Development Program, nakapamahagi ito ng 1,317 bags
ng certified seeds, 744 bags ng hybrid seeds, 2,391 bags ng complete fertilizers,
at 300 bags ng Urea. Dahil dito, halos 2,552 farmers ang natulungan sa rice
financial assistance program, na umabot ng mahigit ₱12.7 million, in partnership
with DA and People's Republic of China.
 Bukod dito, nagkaroon din ng Training on Rice Production at School-on-the-
Air para sa Smart Rice Agriculture, kung saan ang 90 at 100 farmers ang natuto
ng makabagong teknolohiya.
Para naman sa High-Value Crop Development, namahagi ang MLGU at DA
ng assorted vegetable seeds, banana at durian seedlings. Nag-organize din sila
ng mga pagsasanay sa Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). This has empowered
78 farmers to improve their vegetable production techniques and even enhanced
coffee production practices for 25 farmers, further pushing Ambaguio's
agricultural sector to thrive in sustainable and safe methods.
Patuloy din ang suporta sa livestock development at organic agriculture,
kasama ang pamamahagi ng organic fertilizers, animal deworming, at anti-rabies
vaccinations, benefiting thousands of livestock owners and promoting healthier
farms. The fishery sector wasn't left behind either, with aquaculture
demonstrations and fish dispersal helping to elevate local fish production.
And, with the launch of Kadiwa ng Pangulo, our local farmers now have
direct access to market opportunities, ensuring fair pricing and better income. Sa
kabuuan, the total assistance provided by the office across programs sums up to
₱22.4 million, truly a testament to their commitment to making Ambaguio a
more resilient and progressive agricultural hub.
Infrastructure Development

Good Governance