CITY OF TABUK, Kalinga (PIA)–Provincial officials here are one in the continuing bid for Cordillera autonomy.
During the culmination of the 4-day Provincial Unity Gong Relay, the provincial leadership together with municipal officials, Tabuk City officialdom, and tribal leaders are united to renew the call for autonomy.
Congressman Allen Jesse Mangaoang, in his message of support delivered by Reginald Wacas, informed that Cordillera Congressmen plan to meet with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to lobby for executive support to include the refiled autonomy bill as urgent or a priority bill. He also bats for a barangay level signature campaign for the speedy passage of the autonomy bill this 19th Congress.
Governor James Edduba expressed gratitude to all participants, and optimistic of the same solid support be given by the team up to the approval of the autonomy bill including the proposed Eastern Kalinga Growth Area. He said it’s an opportune time to benefit from the development pie under autonomy since we decide by our own.
Meanwhile, Tabuk City Mayor Darwin Estrañero said he expects the symbolism of the gong solidifies oneness of Cordillerans and brings stronger unity for regional peace and development. For autonomy to succeed, he said we should not be quick but to first understand the process by going down the grassroot level through consultation and IEC.
The Unity Gong Relay which is part of the month-long celebration of the Cordillera Month, journeyed to Lubuagan on July 9 then to Tinglayan, Pasil, Balbalan, Pinukpuk, Rizal, Tanudan and culminated on July 12 at Tabuk City.
With the theme: “One Cordillera: Ensuring Social Development and Inclusive Growth in the New Normal”, the 35th founding anniversary of the region will be celebrated at Baguio City on July 15, declared a special non-working holiday.
CAR was officially created on July 15, 1987 thru Executive Order 220 as a special temporary administrative region to prepare for the establishment of an autonomous region.
It can be recalled that the Autonomy bill filed in the 18th Congress was passed on third and final reading at the Lower House, but not acted upon until the election at the Senate.**JDP/PAB-PIA CAR, Kalinga
