Virac, Catanduanes — In support of a smooth and orderly transfer of leadership in the province, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Catanduanes actively took part in the coordination meeting organized by the Provincial Local Governance Transition Team (PLGTT). The meeting was attended by incoming Provincial Governor Dr. Patrick Alain B. Asanza and incoming Vice Governor Robert Fernandez.
The gathering was in line with DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2025-16, which provides the guidelines for local governance transitions for newly elected officials. DILG Provincial Director Uldarico S. Razal, Jr., CESO V, led the discussion on the circular, emphasizing the importance of ensuring governance continuity and the uninterrupted delivery of public services. He noted that the PLGTT had already conducted initial meetings to lay the groundwork for the upcoming turnover.
Director Razal also presented the list of documents to be turned over, which are currently being prepared by the various department heads. Each department was also instructed to identify and outline their priority issues and development challenges, which will be consolidated into the Analysis of State of Local Governance Summary. This report will be endorsed to the incoming governor and will serve as a foundational reference for the 2025 Newly Elected Officials Performing Leadership for Uplifting Service (NEO PLUS) Program. This three-year capacity development initiative aims to support local leaders throughout their term, building upon the original NEO program with stronger emphasis on strategic leadership, policy reform, and responsive public service.
Another item discussed was the program of activities for the upcoming Oath Taking and Turnover Ceremony. Governor-elect Dr. Asanza expressed his preference for a simple and cost-efficient ceremony, reflecting his directive to minimize government spending and focus resources on public welfare.
The meeting was also attended by all Provincial Government Department Heads, as well as DILG Catanduanes Cluster Head William T. Aldea, LGCDS Chief Jessa T. Encarnacion, LGMES Chief Dusheen Marie B. Zamora, and SGLG Provincial Focal Person Gizelle A. Tabilin.
As the Provincial Governance Transition progresses, DILG Catanduanes reaffirms its commitment to uphold transparency, integrity, and efficiency in the entire process—remaining steadfast in its mission to strengthen local governance and empower local institutions. | BP NEWSTEAM | DILG
