The “Bagong Pilipinas” program, launched by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., aims to transform the nation through accessible government interventions.
In Pangasinan, residents are expressing gratitude for the support and opportunities they have received through this program.
Essential equipment for a salt maker
Edwin Tolete, a salt maker from Dasol, expressed his heartfelt thanks for the program after receiving essential salt-making equipment, including a plastic liner, salt storage, and a “tiklis” (native basket) from the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR).
“I am overjoyed and thankful for the assistance given by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. because, from Malacañang, he intentionally travels to provinces to help those in need,” Tolete said.
The equipment will greatly help him with salt making, especially the salt containers, which are crucial for storing the salt during the rainy season. The government also provides Tolete and his fellow salt makers with seminars on food safety and water pumping.
Farmer Receives Land Condonation
Ramon Zaratan, a rice farmer from Bugallon, expressed his joy and gratitude after receiving a Certification of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROM) for his land from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
“I’m so happy and thankful to the president because I no longer have to pay for the land,” Zaratan said. He added that the government had also previously provided him with crops and fertilizers.
Students Receive Training and Financial Aid
Raymart Lopez, a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics student at Pangasinan State University (PSU)-Lingayen Campus, received a training allowance and toolkits from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). These have significantly supported his academic journey and helped him enhance his skills by enrolling in the agency’s program during his vacation.
James Reyes, an Alternative Learning System (ALS) student from Lingayen town who is undergoing dialysis, also thanked the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and President Marcos for the financial aid provided under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.
Government Support Across Sectors
Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III commended the advocacy of the “Bagong Pilipinas” program, stating, “The call and advocacy of Bagong Pilipinas are excellent because they will help develop our entire country. It takes all of us, Filipinos, to achieve the goals and aspirations of Bagong Pilipinas.”
Guico also assured that the province of Pangasinan will support all of the projects under the “Bagong Pilipinas” program.
In addition to the agricultural and livelihood programs, various sectors in Pangasinan have received assistance and benefits from the “Bagong Pilipinas” program, including financial assistance from agencies such as the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Impact of “Bagong Pilipinas” in Pangasinan
The “Bagong Pilipinas” program has made a meaningful difference in the lives of many Pangasinenses, demonstrating that even small efforts can bring about significant change. (AMB/EMSA/KCC/PIA Pangasinan)