IN A simple program, 17 retirees, 10 officials and employees whose terms will end on June 30 were awarded during the Salamat-Mabuhay ka program on Monday, June 17, at the Benguet capitol building.
Benguet officials led by outgoing Provincial Governor Crescencio Pacalso and outgoing Vice Governor Florence Tingbaoen were among the 10 officials and employees whose terms end on June 30.
Pacalso acknowledged all the retirees for their contribution for the betterment of the province.
“In behalf of the people of Benguet, I would like to thank all retirees. You stood the test of time and reach the time of retirement,” Pacalso added.
Incoming vice governor Johnny Waguis together with members of the provincial board, department heads spearheaded the distribution of plaques to the officials.
The award bestowed to the outgoing governor and vice governor recognize their selfless and dedicated public service.
In short message, Tingbaoen congratulated all the incumbent and re-elected board members.
“I just want to say few words, I have been working with the provincial government for 20 years and I enjoined working with you,” Tingboaen added. “With the votes that I have garnered, 78,000 is no joke. Our difference with incoming Vice Governor Waguis is only more than 600 votes.”
Some 176,133 out of the 227,033 registered voters in Benguet voted during the midterm National and Local Elections last May 13.
Waguis garnered 79,461 votes against Tingbaoen, who received 78,777 votes.
Former Benguet Governor Nestor Fongwan won the electoral race and will represent the province in the Congress while former Buguias Mayor Melchor Diclas topped the gubernatorial race with 98,745 votes, defeating Pacalso with 67,238 and Alexander Tadina with 1,230 votes. (With a report from Aira Quiliza/UC intern.)