TARLAC CITY, Tarlac — The Provincial Government of Tarlac took center stage in Luzon on Monday, September 14, as it hosted a massive public service caravan in celebration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s 69th birthday.
Governor Christian Yap led the province-wide initiative, which brought together national government agencies to deliver a wide range of services directly to Tarlaqueños. He was joined by Vice Governor Lita Aquino, other members of the Provincial Board, and Local Chief Executives who showed their full support for the program.
Among the participating agencies were the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), and the Department of Justice (DOJ), among others.
Key Program Highlights
A key highlight of the program was the awarding of funds from the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF), which was distributed to beneficiary barangays to help strengthen and improve their public services. In addition, financial assistance was provided to student beneficiaries of the Presidential Scholars program to support their education.
The celebration also featured the distribution of negosyo carts led by the Provincial Cooperative and Enterprise Development Office (PCEDO), fertilizers and machinery from the DA, a Job Fair and Caravan of Services, and the distribution of rice assistance to Tarlaqueños.
Various agencies also conducted their own assistance programs and activities as part of the day’s events.
National Government Reaffirms Commitment
In a message, Undersecretary of the Executive Secretary Facundo Palafox IV reaffirmed the purpose of the celebration, saying that despite the different programs, the goal remains the same: to bring services where they are most needed and ensure that every Filipino benefits.
Gov. Yap Expresses Gratitude
Governor Yap, for his part, expressed gratitude to the national government for its continued support to the province, urging residents to appreciate the President’s genuine concern for Tarlac.
“Tayo ay nagpapasalamat dun sa malasakit at pagmamahal niya sa ating bansa at sa ating Probinsya ng Tarlac,” Yap said.
The activity underscored the active partnership between the Provincial Government of Tarlac and the national government in delivering services with genuine compassion and understanding of the people’s needs.
PBBM’s Support to Tarlac Cited
In his speech, Yap thanked the President for his frequent visits to the province and for committing P300 million for the faster implementation of local bridge projects.
“Nag-commit din siya ng 300 million sa probinsya para magawa na ng mabilis, lokal na mag-i-implement para dun sa ating bridges,” he said.
He also cited the ongoing point-to-point free ride program as among the benefits of the President’s swift action.
The governor likewise noted that simultaneous programs were being held across the province, including caravans of services, distribution of farm equipment, AICS payouts, TESDA scholarships, and the distribution of tablets to students.
The governor likewise noted that simultaneous programs were being held across the province, including caravans of services, distribution of farm equipment, AICS payouts, TESDA scholarships, and the distribution of tablets to students.
A Model of National-Local Partnership
The nationwide celebration reflects the administration’s commitment to bringing government services closer to the people, with Tarlac serving as a model of how national and local governments can work together to address the real needs of communities. Through initiatives like the caravan, the province hopes to sustain these gains and ensure that no Tarlaqueño is left behind.
