“Reforming our government is the only way we have to win back the trust of our people.”

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday emphasized his administration’s commitment to eliminating corruption and promoting principled leadership at all levels of governance.

In his speech during the oath taking ceremony of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines (LVGP) held in Malacañan Palace, President Marcos recognized that genuine service is not defined by political affiliation but by sincerity, action, and accountability.

“Patunayan natin na wala sa kulay ng politika ang tunay na paglilingkod. Ito ay nasa puso, nasa konsensya, at higit sa lahat, nasa gawa,” the President said.

The Chief Executive reminded officials that public service comes with the duty to uphold integrity and deliver genuine reforms that respond to the people’s needs.

“Tandaan natin: Ang bawat posisyon ay may kaakibat na tungkulin at responsibilidad. Responsibilidad na itaguyod ang makabuluhang pagbabago sa inyong mga lalawigan,” President Marcos said.

The President acknowledged the frustrations of ordinary Filipinos with poor governance, adding that many citizens feel burdened by recurring problems in public service and disillusioned by unmet promises of reform.

President Marcos said this widespread disappointment has fueled anger among the people, a sentiment that the government must confront with humility and decisive action.

“Dismayado ang maraming Pilipino dahil sa mga patong-patong na isyung lumulunod sa kanila araw-araw,” the President said.

“Let us not dismiss that anger. Let us confront it. Let us be humbled and provide concrete solutions. Alam naman natin ang mga mali, kaya dapat nating itama.”

Despite these challenges, President Marcos expressed confidence in the capability of local leaders to deliver the service that Filipinos deserve.

“I know we have it in us to deliver the service our people rightfully deserve. Ibigay natin iyon sa kanila. Ibigay natin sa mga anak at apo natin ang isang pamahalaang marangal at maipagmamalaki nila,” the President said.

Linking his message to his administration’s Bagong Pilipinas vision, the President urged provincial vice governors to lead by example and embody the values of integrity, discipline, and compassion.

“If we truly believe in a Bagong Pilipinas, then we, as leaders, must be the very examples of a Bagong Pilipino—tapat, disiplinado, at may tunay na malasakit sa bayan,” President Marcos said.

The President’s call highlighted his twin appeal for reforms and inclusivity — ending corruption and systemic dysfunctions while fostering unity beyond politics as vital steps in building a stronger and more trusted government for the Filipino people. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. told the country’s provincial vice governors to strengthen integrity and credibility in public service while underscoring the urgency of responding to the needs of their constituents.

“The unscrupulous abuse of power and greed must come to an end,” the Chief Executive declared after administering the oath of office to the newly elected and appointed officials of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines (LVGP) in a ceremony in Malacañan Palace.

Acknowledging the deep frustrations of ordinary Filipinos, President Marcos said that the people’s dissatisfaction stems from years of institutional neglect and repeated failures to deliver on promises of reform.

“Dismayado ang maraming Pilipino dahil sa mga patong-patong na isyung lumulunod sa kanila araw-araw,” the President said.

“Our people are exhausted, they are disappointed, they are angry. And as I have said before, their rage is valid. It is born from years of frustration at a government characterized by systemic dysfunction and unfulfilled promises,” the President added.

The Chief Executive urged government leaders not to ignore this sentiment but to confront it with humility and action.

“Let us not dismiss their anger. Let us confront it. Let us be humbled and provide concrete solutions. Alam naman natin ang mga mali, kaya dapat nating itama,” President Marcos said.

The President’s call underscored his administration’s commitment towards eradicating entrenched corruption, implementing genuine reforms, and delivering a transparent and accountable government that earns the people’s trust. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday emphasized the essential role of provincial vice governors as a vital link between the national development agenda and the realities of governance in their provinces.

In his speech after administering the oath of office to the newly elected and appointed League of Vice Governors of the Philippines (LVGP) officials during a ceremony held in Malacañan Palace, President Marcos said provincial vice governors are entrusted with the responsibility not only to preside over their provincial boards, but also to embody the values of integrity and transformation in public service.

“You are the bridge between aspiration and action, between national vision and local execution,” President Marcos said.

“The people, therefore, expect you to be champions of progress, transparency, inclusivity, and accountability at all times,” the President added.

The Chief Executive reminded the LVGP officials that their appointment reflects both confidence from their peers and a mandate for reform in their respective provinces.

“Your appointment signifies a vote of confidence from your colleagues. But more than that, it is also a mandate for transformation,” President Marcos said.

President Marcos also commended the LVGP for advancing initiatives that strengthen leadership and legislative capabilities and for taking progressive steps in improving competencies in local governance and legislation.

“Through the League’s facilitation of capacity-building activities and regional summits and assemblies, you have deepened your understanding of global best practices in governance, digital transformation, and urban development,” the President noted.

President Marcos urged local leaders to institutionalize continuous learning as part of public service.

“May we embed this commitment in the culture of public service: Always learning, always improving—all for the greater good of those that we serve,” President Marcos emphasized.

The LVGP was formed as part of the broader movement of local elected officials organizing for policy advocacy and capacity building under the framework of the Local Government Code of 1991, which mandates various leagues of local government units and local officials to articulate issues in governance and pursue reforms.

The LVGP operates under the umbrella of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP), which was formally recognized by Executive Order No. 351 series of 2004, as the umbrella organization of leagues of local government units and associations of local elective and appointed officials. | PND

Malacañang on Monday assured the public that the government will enforce strict oversight on the 2026 national budget, noting that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is ready to exercise his veto power against any irregular or questionable spending.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the assurance during a Palace briefing, responding to claims that the 2025 budget was the “most corrupt” and detailing plans to safeguard next year’s budget.

“Sinabi po ng Pangulo even before, na kung mayroon mang magkakamali o magiging anomalyang muli ang gagawin na budget sa 2026, iyan po ay kaniyang ibi-veto,” Castro said during the briefing.

“So, makakasiguro po tayo with all these things happening, makakaasa ang taumbayan na magiging maayos ang 2026 budget at hindi pahihintulutan ng Pangulo ang mga maanomalyang proyekto.”

As the issue of budget “insertions” in the 2025 national budget has surfaced amid the investigation into ghost or substandard flood control projects, Castro said President Marcos is with the Filipino people in venting anger against the corruption of public funds.

President Marcos earlier announced that the PhP255.5 billion allocation for cancelled flood control projects in 2026 shall be realigned to priority programs of other agencies including education, health, agriculture, social services, ICT, labor, and energy. | PND

The Marcos administration on Monday urged lawmakers to pass the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, amid the clamor for transparency and accountability in the flood control projects investigation initiated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

“This week, we heard the voices of Filipinos loudly calling, clamoring for an FOI Law,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Dave Gomez said in his speech at the opening of the Global Conference of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2025 in Pasay City.

“I take this opportunity to urge our lawmakers, civil society leaders, and fellow public servants to come together in finally enacting the Right to Information Bill for the Philippines, one that upholds global standards and empowers our democracy,” Gomez added.

The Philippines is the first country in Southeast Asia to host the Global Conference of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI).

This year’s theme, “Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age,” could not be more timely, said Gomez.

“In a nation like ours, where natural disasters are an ever-present threat, access to environmental data is not just a matter of governance—it is a matter of survival,” Gomez said.

“Through technology, we must ensure that communities, especially the most vulnerable, have the information they need to stay safe, plan, and thrive,” he added.

Over the next two days, participants will engage in meaningful dialogues on how governments and civil society can better promote environmental data transparency, harness digital technologies, and address the challenges of climate change through the provision of accurate, timely, and relevant information.

Gomez said the Philippines is proud to host the global access to information community once again, after hosting the 14th Edition of the International Conference of Information Commissioners in 2023.

These platforms are vital in strengthening international cooperation and regional solidarity for open, participatory governance, the PCO chief said.

“May these two days serve as a catalyst for strengthening our shared commitment to institutionalizing genuine access to information for the people. Because in a ‘New Philippines,’ every citizen has the right to ask and be involved,” Gomez said. ǀ PND

Malacañang has assured the public that flood control projects across the country will continue despite the reallocation of funds under the proposed 2026 national budget.

In a press briefing Monday, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) conducted a thorough reassessment of its budget allocation for 2026 and identified certain projects that could be removed.

Casto said the move created a “fiscal space” for the PhP255.5 billion allocated for flood control projects next year, as earlier announced by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

“So, mas nanaisin po ng Pangulo na ito ay mailagay sa tamang mga programa at para po mas makatulong sa mga kababayan po natin,” Castro said.

The Palace official likewise noted that contractors are still liable for flood control projects that have been funded and paid in full by the government but remain unfinished.

“Kung ito man ay napondohan at nabayaran na in full at hindi nagawa ng mga contractor na ito, liability po nila ito dapat nila itong tapusin,” Castro said.

During a recent visit to Gonzaga, Cagayan to distribute assistance to typhoon-affected residents, President Marcos allayed concerns that the reallocation of budget to other priority programs will disrupt ongoing or future flood control projects of the government.

“Huwag po kayong mag-alala, hindi ibig sabihin matitigil ang flood control project dahil po sa aming pag-aaral, mayroon pa po – iyong budget ng flood control projects sa 2025 ay 300 plus billion. So, hindi pa naubos ‘yun,” the President explained.

President Marcos said new flood control projects will continue to be approved, provided they meet strict guidelines.

“So, tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang magiging flood control project hanggang sa susunod na taon at mayroon naman tayo na ia-approve na flood control project. Basta’t nakita natin ay maayos ang proposal, maayos ang program of work, maayos ang completion, may acceptance ng local government,” the President said. | PND

The Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to the right to information as it hosts the Global Conference of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2025, with the theme “Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age.”

“The Philippines is honored and proud to host this year’s conference, especially as we commemorate the 10th anniversary of the designation of September 28 as the International Day for Universal Access to Information,” Presidential Communications Office Acting Secretary Dave Gomez said during the opening ceremony at the Hilton Newport World Resorts in Pasay City.

“As the first country in Southeast Asia to host the IDUAI, this celebration is a meaningful recognition of our continuing commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 16.10: ensuring public access to information as a fundamental human right,” Gomez said in his speech.

Co-hosted by the Philippine government and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the two-day conference gathered government decision-makers, international experts, Information commissioners, journalists and civil society leaders from more than 30 countries.

The delegates are expected to discuss how policies that guarantee access to environmental information strengthen regional cooperation, disaster preparedness, and climate action, and advance sustainable development and environmental justice.

Gomez said the Philippines affirms its commitment to the right to information through Article III, Section 7 of the 1987 Constitution, which recognizes the people’s right to Information on matters of public concern.

This constitutional right was operationalized by Executive Order No. 2, series of 2016, which established the Freedom of Information (FOI) Program across the Executive Branch.

“Today, under the vision of the Bagong Pilipinas campaign—which, for our international guests, translates to New Philippines—we envision a government that is not only for the people but also with the people,” Gomez said.

“A government that listens, informs, and empowers its citizens, because only with an informed citizenry can we build a truly democratic nation.”

Gomez said over the past nine years, the PCO has worked to institutionalize the FOI Program through the FOI Program Management Office.

This has involved maintaining the eFOI portal, expanding localization efforts, and launching nationwide capacity-building programs, as well as countering misinformation and disinformation through credible and accessible public data, the PCO Acting Secretary said.

“We continue to empower our local governments to become FOI-ready, bringing FOI closer to every Filipino,” Gomez said. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, retired General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. as Special Adviser and Investigator of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI).

Azurin, who served as PNP chief from August 2022 to April 2023,, will assume his duties after concluding his personal and administrative arrangements, the Office of the President announced on Monday.

“The administration is confident that General Azurin’s experience and leadership will further strengthen the Commission’s mandate to uphold accountability and transparency in the use of public funds,” the Office of the President said in a statement.

President Marcos meanwhile thanked Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, erstwhile Special Adviser of the ICI, for his service.

Magalong tendered his resignation as ICI special adviser in a letter to the President last Friday.

“The President thanks Mayor Benjamin Magalong for his service and contributions during his tenure. His efforts in safeguarding the integrity and credibility of the Commission have been vital to the government’s campaign against corruption in infrastructure projects,” the Office of the President said.

President Marcos created the ICI on September 11 through Executive Order No. 94 to investigate and recommend legal action against individuals involved in irregularities and misuse of public funds in flood control and related infrastructure projects within the last 10 years.

The President appointed retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres B. Reyes Jr. as ICI Chairperson, and former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio L. Singson and SGV and Co. Country Managing Partner Rossana A. Fajardo as the commission’s members. | PND

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize the welfare of people affected by Severe Tropical Storm “Opong,” the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has mobilized relief efforts in the island province of Masbate.

“Sa utos ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ay tumungo ang DSWD sa Masbate para personal na mag-abot ng tulong sa mga apektadong komunidad,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a Palace press briefing Monday.

Castro said the DSWD officials personally visited several evacuation centers, specifically Nursery Elementary School, Bolo National School, and Milagros National School to assess the condition of the evacuees and identify their immediate needs.

In coordination with the Masbate local government, the DSWD distributed family food packs and provided other essential aid to displaced families.

“Klaro ang nais ng Pangulo: Siguruhin na walang maiiwan sa mga kababayan nating nasalanta ng bagyo,” Castro said.

The Palace official underscored the Marcos administration’s commitment to support affected communities not only through immediate disaster response but also throughout the recovery and rehabilitation phases.

Masbate has been placed under a state of calamity due to widespread damage brought by “Opong,” which has affected at least 16,000 families across the province. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday highlighted his administration’s commitment to universal healthcare during his visit to the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMH&MC) in Batac, Ilocos Norte, where he underscored the implementation of the zero balance billing policy.

President Marcos, who was welcomed by Dr. Jose B. Orosa III, Chief of Medical Professional Staff II and other hospital staff and patients, visited the Oncology, Internal Medicine, and Family Medicine wards where he witnessed the discharge of patients covered by zero balance billing policy.

Among the patients who benefited from policy were 21-year-old Jenard Castillo Galasinao of Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, who was treated for severe leptospirosis; 74-year-old Cirilo Urvayo Urcia of Magsingal, Ilocos Sur, who received treatment for multiple conditions including metabolic encephalopathy and anemia of chronic disease; and 56-year-old Leonardo Batara Tolentino of Piddig, Ilocos Norte, who completed treatment for post-infectious parkinsonism and meningitis.

The President also visited the Kangaroo Mother Care and Neonatal Intensive Care Units, emphasizing his administration’s focus on maternal, child, and critical healthcare services.

According to Dr. Orosa, more than 400 in-patients at MMMH&MC are expected to benefit from the zero balance billing policy today alone, while a total of 61,524 patients have already benefited from the program under the Marcos administration, with hospitalization costs amounting to PhP1.43 billion fully covered.

To extend direct support, the Office of the President distributed 2,076 meals to patients, guardians, and hospital staff, with additional meals set aside for new admissions and volunteers.

The provincial government of Ilocos Norte also provided 1,800 food packs, while the Office of House Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos distributed 750 sacks of 10-kilo rice to patients and their families.

The MMMH&MC, a premier government tertiary hospital in Northern Luzon, plays a vital role in providing specialized and accessible healthcare services to Ilocanos and nearby provinces. | PND