By Anthony A. Araos
Now or never, I thought.
Outlining differences between two neighboring provinces in Northern Luzon is quite important. I’m obviously referring to Ifugao in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and Nueva Vizcaya in Region II, also known as the Cagayan Valley Region. There are indeed a lot of differences. Worlds apart, to say the least!
Expect heated contentions when tackling these differences. These include gritty things scrutinized by folks for no serious reason at all.
Nueva Vizcaya is really so blessed. Its development “success story” is rooted in the officialdom’s commitment to undercut inequality across the province. Then, Novo Vizcayanos are proud of the positive outcomes, they have experienced, and with the concrete changes, they are able to enjoy quality services. I am overly impressed when it comes to delivery of basic social services even in remote villages. Small wonder, Governor Jing Gambito won by a landslide in the last midterm polls in the battle for the governor post, beating outgoing Rep. Banti Cuaresma.
Nueva Vizcaya is dotted with Savemore, 7-11, Jollibee, McDonalds, Chowking, Red Ribbon, Greenwich, Inasal and other highly-recognized establishments. Mining, agriculture and other industries are performing remarkably well. The province’s economic growth clearly sits on the shoulders of roadside eateries, vegetable and fruit stalls in public markets, well-patronized coffee and computer shops, wholesale hardware and office supplies, poultry farms and bustling micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Verily, Nueva Vizcaya officials readily realized MSMEs potential as vital contributor to the economy. With their full support- in terms of micro financing, digitalization, market development and equipment support, the growth and development of MSMEs has been realized.
On the other hand, the lingering effects of mounting poverty incidence in Ifugao and rising cost of living have been seen as factors exacerbating the difficulties faced by the people. It’s back to reality for most folks temporarily thrilled by menial jobs such as putting up tarpaulins during the elections. Many are jobless. The only competitive enterprise is selling of momma.
Neither the inherently small number of Vizcayano voters of Ifugao descent and “unimaginable” and stupid strategies of a tiny group of handlers of Board Member Jose Tomas Sr. were able to help him in the congressional race.
Setbacks in the May 12 polls in 2022 in the battle for the governor’s post showed that it’s time for a change in one’s life. I would say what I needed to say.
BM Tomas is highly competent. His track record speaks for itself. He gets things done in the government and even in the cooperative world. He has always placed a strong emphasis on combining business expertise with compassionate care.
Tomas’ birthplace: Hingyon, Ifugao. May we all then take a moment to let that fact sink in, he is from Ifugao. To help everyone visualize this fact, this means that he belongs to the province. He belongs to the Cordilleras. Seeing and realizing this fact highlights the importance of looking into the dedication of one who is steadfast in changing the lives of the marginalized and has contributed to the successful implementation of the programs and projects of the Tam-an Banaue Multipurpose Cooperative, one of the top cooperatives in the Philippines. Profoundly touching people’s lives, Mr. Tomas empowered them to live productive and meaningful lives.
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