LAGAWE, IFUGAO- – Ifugao folks are still pinning stronger interest for unity and continuity in running the provincial government, as 80,488 voters gave Governor Jerry Dalipog a new mandate in the just concluded May 12 midterm polls.
Dalipog, the province’s first three-term governor defeated former governor Eugene Balitang of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP). Balitang obtained 30,833 votes. The Lakas CMD fielded Dalipog, an engineer who also served as mayor of Banaue for nine years.
As governor since 2019, Dalipog oversees the planning and execution of the provincial government’s key infrastructure programs.
The landslide victory once more demonstrated his worth and expertise beyond the construction of key structures across the province’s 11 towns. Quick delivery of basic services is an important component of Governor Dalipog’s brand of transformative governance.
The uniting power of good governance was in full force, as this highly-contested polls brought countless hearts as one as they witnessed history and unparallel dedication to duty. Dalipog and re-electionist Rep. Solomon Chungalao, who also emerged victorious, are indeed true testaments to the power of solidarity with long-lasting ties with the electorate. Chungalao got 63,771 votes, his rival engineer Francis Cuyop got 52,314 votes.
In several villages, folks felt the positive impact of their projects.
“This success at the polls is a proof to the dedication and hard work of the Dalipog-Chungalao team, who strive to improve the conditions of our people. We also extend our gratitude to our campaigners and many others.” Dalipog said. “These accomplishments are owed to you,” he added.
This year’s Dalipog-Chungalao electoral triumph has truly been remarkable, reflecting a continued commitment to supporting the cause of raising the bar of Ifugao’s competitiveness. With all the impressive results generated by the Dalipog-Chungalao tandem it isn’t hard to really captivate the hearts of many and is likely to inspire future generations.
This set the stage, for changes in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. Martin Habawel is the new vice governor. District I board members include Jordan Gullitiw, Pedro Mayam-o, Jaweh Habbiling, Joselito Guyguyon, Albert Binlang and Geronimo Bimohya. While district II board members are Gaspar Chilagan, Orlando Addug , Jojo Odan and Peter Bunnag.
Unquestionably, months ahead are indeed crucial for addressing various challenges including those related to poverty, inequality and underdevelopment.
While it may be true that members of the new Sangguninag Panlalawigan are coming from different political persuasions it’s still possible for bi-partisan action on these pressing concerns.
This job is too big for the executive top brass alone. Legislators should help on this score.
For his part, board member-elect Pedro Mayam-o said, “It’s time we alleviate or at least lessen the suffering of our people.” Mayam-o, a former governor and also a lawyer from Hingyon, is a PFP member and is viewed as a fiscalizer.
At the proclamation rites, the jovial and articulate advocate for prioritization of the agriculture sector said on the event “highlights” our pledge to address the critical need for job creation.”
It motivates a desirable push to improve the quality of life of Ifugao folks as part of my commitment to helping the province achieve sustainable growth and progress,” he told the ZigZag Weekly in an exclusive interview.
It pays for those in other political camp to work well with the administration. Social and economic outcomes for all will be improved as those in the majority and minority work together. Surely now, many are watching! Working together, they all contribute effectively to promote the common good . **By Anthony A. Araos
