By Anthony A. Araos
For Cordillera officials are truly regarded as revered and dedicated public servants as Ifugao Governor Jerry Dalipog. “You couldn’t ignore his actions and consequently commend him immensely for the province’s growth and development,” says Barangay Poblacion North Punong Barangay Emerson Inhumang of Lagawe.
Many others shared this sentiment and are grateful for Governor Dalipog’s support in improving their communities through his invaluable contributions to so many villages.
During the May 2025 midterm polls, Dalipog vowed to back up the sports program. What Dalipog said came true. His just-concluded grassroots based training program is a very good example to start with.
This is because ample attention was given to young and very promising athletes across the province, in line with the governor’s strategy of strengthening the foundation of their well-being.
Once more, I’m saluting Governor Dalipog for putting the welfare of the youth first, because such efforts enrich their lives, ease the burden of the difficulties of life brought about by massive devastation of super typhoon Uwan and the high cost of living and help build a stronger nation.
So Dalipog, who is now on his third term, gave Ifugao folks bright hopes for the future. He would help the people overcome these obstacles.
To my mind, harnessing the full potential of the youth through sports and recreation opportunities that also drive them away from virulent vices is so important. Today, students are undoubtedly susceptible to vices.
All told, Governor Dalipog’s holistic approach to improving Ifugao’s sports program involves the conduct of the two-day training camp on arnis, muay thai and pencat silak on separate venues as well as the two-day seminar and competition on dance sports at the Lagawe Central School gymnasium.
Through this initiative, we are enabling our youthful athletes to enhance the latest trends and know-how in these fields of sports with confidence and purpose.
I’m sure this is part of the governor’s vision to provide knowledge inclusion, where no generation is left behind in building a vibrant and connected future.
During these rigorous training camps, I witnessed their hard work, perseverance and grit to surpass several hurdles. Most of them are from public schools. One of them came from the distant, poverty-stricken town of Tinoc. He carries with him a herculean mission to rise above the constraints brought by the Uwan devastation. (Ifugao is still under a state of calamity). His parents, who work in the fields planting vegetables, could only provide little support, but surely their belief in his potential is unwavering.
Then, there are many other noteworthy items pointing out in this commentary. Bringing in distinguished coaches from Baguio City and the National Capital Region (NCR) is an excellent idea. Joevanure Fajanil, Ariano Lota Sr., Ronald Perena, Zaida Laruan, Christzabelle Laruan, Charibelle Pingawan and Diony Mark Cuanza all took part in these all-important camps.
There are coaches-resource speakers who impart a few basic lessons, and there are coaches-resource speakers who provide more and make a big difference in the lines of these Ifugao sports-loving youngsters. The overlap is crucial that people might think the difference between victory and defeat. That’s why I’m saying the participants are so fortunate to have them, as well as their school mentors. It’s a long time since I’ve heard of this development. Suddenly I felt like awarding Governor Dalipog a gold medal for being a champion of sports. I submit that his stellar performance in terms of responsive leadership goes beyond so many point of references. His initiatives have transformational impact on countless Ifugao competitors.
Far from ending the list of our “awardees”, I’m also congratulating Manuel Bitog, Jan Padawan, Elizabeth Bitog, Kevin Segupdo and Roland Magastino for their invaluable contributions for their highly-successful endeavor.
The promotion of sports program has always been among the priorities of Governor Dalipog. That is even before he assumed his office in 2019, Dalipog has been providing assistance such as training equipment and guidance to athletes for them to become competitive. He earlier served as mayor of Banaue for 12 years.
These matchless qualities that God has gifted him are most helpful in tapping the talents and skills of young athletes in the barangay level. More importantly, improve the performances of Ifugao athletes who have been lagging far behind their neighbors in the CAR.
This “milestone” would also help find a unique narrative that resonates with many folks. It is my prayer that more blessings are coming in 2026, 2027 and 2028 for Governor Dalipog.**
