New Ilocos Norte governor’s 1st 100 days: ‘At your service’

City of Batac—"Leadership begins with a vision—one that is rooted in faith, shared with the people, and lived in service,” said Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos as she marked her first 100 days in office at the Ilocandia Cultural Center in this city on October 10, 2025.

In her address, Araneta-Marcos outlined her administration’s early accomplishments, emphasizing responsive governance, disaster resilience, and inclusive development.

She cited the institutionalization of monthly alignment meetings between the executive and legislative branches, the full approval of Salary Grade 3 for entry-level government workers, and the creation of new offices such as the Provincial Information Office and Agriculture Biosystems Engineering Office, among others. “I cannot work with unhappy people. One of my first priorities was to make the Capitol a happier place,” she said.

In the face of multiple typhoons and natural disasters, Araneta-Marcos underscored the province’s shift toward proactive disaster management. Her administration has since elevated the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office to full department status and initiated the establishment of the Ilocos Norte Command Center.

Over 43,000 families received emergency relief assistance, while nearly PHP2 million in shelter aid was distributed to more than 340 households. “We continue to stand by the community, providing essential services and helping families recover in times of need,” she said.

In agriculture, the province launched the Sustainable Agroforestry Farm Enterprise–Bamboo-Business Model Project and distributed over PHP62 million in aid to more than 6,000 farmers and fisherfolk. “Through persevering soil restoration and revitalization projects, we are planting the seeds for a healthier, more fertile future for generations of Ilokanos,” she remarked. Agriculture is set to receive the highest budget allocation in 2026.

On health, the first-term governor reported the completion of phase I of the new Provincial Health Office and Ilocos Norte’s top regional ranking in child immunization. Over PHP3 million worth of medicines were distributed to municipalities, and the province achieved significant milestones in the implementation of the Universal Health Care Program.

Tourism and investment were also key priorities. The province generated PHP6.5 million in sales at the 36^th Philippine Travel Mart and welcomed new renewable energy investments through partnerships with local and international firms. “Ilocos Norte means business,” she said, citing the revised Investment Code and the pursuit of economic zone accreditation for provincial government-owned facilities.

Livelihood and business development were bolstered through job fairs, youth employment programs, and the expansion of “Mercato ni Nanay Ces.” “We must chart a blueprint for an economy that is pro-job, competitive, and visionary,” she said.

On education and youth development, the governor highlighted expanded scholarship programs, international exchange opportunities, and review assistance for board and civil service examinations. “Our greatest investment will always be our people—every student who learns, every youth who leads, and every Ilokano who dreams,” she remarked.

Araneta-Marcos closed her address with a reaffirmation of her commitment to public service: “Time and again, I have said that I am a reluctant politician. But today, I stand here with a hopeful heart and the brightest [smile], in remembrance of my husband [Nonong], and in gratitude for your love and trust, I have found my purpose. I consider it my honor to be your Governor; at your service.” (EJ Deus, PGIN-PIO)