President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administered the oath of office to the newly elected officials of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) during a ceremony held at the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday.
In his speech, President Marcos commended the LPP for its long-standing commitment to public service, unity, and nation-building.
“Simula nang maitatag ang LPP noong 1987, nagkaroon ang lahat ng mga lalawigan sa bansa ng iisang tinig para sa iisang adhikain: ang kaunlaran ng bawat Pilipino saan mang panig ng mundo,” the President said.
The Chief Executive cited LPP’s Manifesto of Support issued last year, calling it a strong demonstration of their commitment to public service and unity in governance.
“Pinili ninyong isulong ang matapat na serbisyong publiko sa halip na pagkawatak-watak na hindi nakakatulong naman sa ating mga mamamayan,” the President said.
President Marcos also commended the league for supporting the government’s digitalization efforts, which he said has improved efficiency, reduced fixers, and made services more accessible to all Filipinos.
In agriculture, the President noted the collaboration between the national and local leaders that helped provide affordable rice and ensure benefits and subsidies reach those who truly need them.
The Chief Executive likewise underscored the vital role of governors in times of crisis, noting that they are often the first to respond to the needs of their constituents.
President Marcos reflected on his own experience as a local chief executive, having served as governor of Ilocos Norte for over a decade.
“Napag-aralan ko ang bawat sulok ng lokal na pamahalaan. Sa panahon ng tagtuyot, natutunan ko kung (anong) irigasyon ang kailangang ayusin. Sa panahon ng unos, natutunan ko rin kung anong sektor ang uunahin,” the President said.
President Marcos expressed his confidence in the new LPP officers to fulfill their mandate and serve the public with integrity and dedication.
The LPP, composed of the country’s 82 provincial governments, promotes unity and effective local governance through policy collaboration and capacity-building programs.
The new set of officers of the LPP elected last July 25, is led by its reelected National President South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., reelected National Chairman Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo Cua and Executive Vice-President Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda.
Also elected for a three-year term until July 31, 2028 are: Senior Vice-Presidents Gov. Rodolfo Albano III (Luzon North), Gov. Luis Raymund Villafuerte Jr. (Luzon South), Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. (Visayas), Gov. Nilo Demerey Jr. (Mindanao); and Secretary-General, Gov. Nilo Demerey Jr. (PND)
