SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – La Union Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David highlighted the importance of putting the needs of her constituents first and foremost in the decision-making process during her first State of the Province Address (SOPA) delivered at the newly-inaugurated La Union Convention Center on August 7.

Ortega-David said that her administration has worked towards addressing the concerns and needs of her constituents, with the end goal of ensuring that their voices are heard.

She emphasized that by being accessible and transparent, her administration has established a strong bond between the government and the people while also instilling a sense of accountability in public service.

“We champion transparency, accountability, and participation. Decision-making processes shall remain open until it becomes the norm. Citizens are not mere spectators but active participants in shaping their own destinies,” Governor Ortega-David said.

In her speech, she highlighted the good working relationship of the Provincial Executive Department with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan headed by Vice Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega, leading to effective public service delivery especially to those in need.

Provincial initiatives made possible through the help of La Union's board members were also highlighted by Governor Ortega-David, to include Ex-Officio Board Member Alyssa Sibuma's campaigns for HIV and AIDS Awareness and screening tests; Board Member Jennifer Mosuela-Fernandez for crafting legal frameworks that enable social justice and inclusion; and Board Member Victor Rivera's initiative to further bolster the provincial government’s readiness to provide the necessary properties that are required for housing projects for the constituents.

Board Member Denny Ortega's initiative to draft a Provincial Ordinance on the mandatory registration of poultry and livestock raisers and farm owners in all barangays in the province was also highlighted by the Governor.

It is also recognized that Board Member Pablo Ortega's initiative to secure a greener future through the passing of Provincial Ordinance No. 342-2023, titled "Enacting the Single-Use Plastics and Other Reusable and Disposable Materials Code," is contributory in protecting the environment for the next generations to come.

To keep up with the changing needs of the province particularly to finance various social services, health, education, infrastructure, and other vital needs of the people, the governor recognized Board Member Henry Balbin's efforts to update the La Union Local Revenue Code and the Public Private Partnerships Code.

Alongside these initiatives, Ortega-David lauded Board Member Aaron Kyle Pinzon's push for a sustainable and efficient human resource mobilization that encompasses plantilla, contract-based, and volunteer workers.

Moreover, Ortega-David underscored the provincial government’s achievement of being the first to achieve three ISO certifications as well as being conferred a Seal of Good Financial Housekeeping and for having zero Outstanding COA Audit Suspension and Disallowance. (JCR/CCMT, PIA La Union)