Albay Acting Governor Glenda Bongao marked her 100th day in office by presenting key accomplishments and challenges during the Ulat sa Albay on January 28 at the Proxy by the Oriental in Legazpi City, Albay.
In what could be her first and last report as acting governor, Bongao detailed disaster response efforts, social services, education programs, and the controversial quarrying industry in the province.
Bongao underscored the province’s disaster response following Typhoon Kristine, which battered Albay during her first month in office.
A total of ₱55.41 million in cash donations poured in, including ₱50 million from the Office of the President. Of this, ₱33 million was distributed to 18 local government units (LGUs) and schools to aid in recovery efforts. Food assistance was also provided, including 54,905 food packs and 47,000 family packs from the DSWD.
On social and health services, among the highlights of her tenure was the renewal of vows for 520 golden couples, each receiving ₱10,000. Social pensions were also distributed to 16,624 senior citizens, with additional aid for two centenarians.
For healthcare, medical, dental, and optical missions reached over 2,800 residents, while PGA-owned hospitals continued their regular operations.
On education and scholarship programs, over 1,389 students benefited from ₱2,778,000 in financial assistance, while the Top 20 Governor’s List granted ₱2,500 each to 684 scholars.
Additional grants were provided for postgraduate students, including dissertation and thesis assistance. Twelve medical students also received over ₱536,000 in aid. I Jeric Lopez
Quarry Revenues and Environmental Concerns
Bongao addressed the controversial quarrying industry in Albay, calling it a major revenue source for LGUs and barangays.
In December alone, the province recorded ₱9.06 million in quarry-related revenue, despite a shortened work period. By January 23, revenue had already surpassed ₱9.5 million.
To ensure that quarry earnings benefit the people, the provincial government introduced four programs including scholarship funding, medical assistance, livelihood support and cash incentives for nonagenarians
Bongao assured the public that quarrying operations would be balanced with environmental protection, with the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board monitoring activities closely.
Leadership and Future Plans
During her 100 days, Bongao issued 16 executive orders, appointed key department heads, and promoted 26 PGA personnel. She acknowledged the unpredictable nature of her political career but affirmed her commitment to public service.
With her term as acting governor coming to an end, Bongao is now setting her sights on the Tabaco City vice mayoral race in the upcoming May elections.
“Probably, this will be my first, last and only Ulat sa Albay as Acting Governor,” she said.