Bataan’s 268th founding anniversary was more than a commemoration of history—it was a testament to its leadership in governance, innovation, and economic resilience.
The province’s accomplishments in 2024 highlight its alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ‘s 8-point socio-economic agenda, focusing on good governance, economic transformation, and inclusive development.
Governance and financial excellence
At the core of Bataan’s achievements is its commitment to ethical governance, earning its 7th Seal of Good Local Governance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). This recognition underscores excellence in disaster preparedness, financial transparency, and environmental protection, supporting the administration’s goals of efficiency and accountability.
Governor Jose Enrique Garcia III, in his State of the Province Address, emphasized that these milestones reflect the province’s ability to meet the needs of its people effectively while upholding integrity in public service.
“Ang mga piling programang nakatanggap ng parangal nitong 2024 ay naging dahilan upang kilalanin tayo bilang modelo ng kaunlaran ng iba’t ibang probinsya sa buong bansa (The selected programs that received recognition in 2024 have made us a model of development for various provinces across the country),” he noted.
Bataan also excelled in fiscal management, with the Bureau of Local Government Finance recognizing it for achieving the highest ratio of locally sourced revenues to total current operating income in 2022 and 2023, as well as ranking fourth in nominal revenue terms for 2024. These financial successes demonstrate sustainable resource generation, a priority of the national agenda.
Economic transformation and cultural preservation
Economic growth remains a top priority, and Bataan serves as a model for local success.
The Philippine Statistics Authority ranked it 5th nationwide in per capita gross domestic product for 2022, showcasing its robust economy.
The province’s competitive edge was further highlighted by its 10th-place ranking in the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index from the Department of Trade and Industry, reflecting a thriving business environment that creates jobs and strengthens the national economy.
Bataan’s Public Employment Service Office (PESO) earned the title of National Best PESO from the Department of Labor and Employment. This recognition underscores its pivotal role in job creation and livelihood programs, advancing the administration’s goal of equitable growth.
Bataan has skillfully linked cultural preservation with economic opportunities, exemplifying the administration’s vision of promoting tourism and local industries.
The province’s Bahay Wika Program, recognized as one of the 10 Outstanding Local Governance Programs by the Galing Pook Foundation, ensures the preservation of the language of the Ayta Magbukon indigenous group. This initiative also won Best Institutionalized Culture and Arts Program at the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines- Department of Tourism Pearl Awards, further cementing its cultural impact.
Additionally, the “Remember Bataan” collection, which won Best Tourism Souvenirs at the same awards, illustrates a creative approach to celebrating heritage while supporting local artisans and entrepreneurs.
Disaster preparedness, social protection, and community engagement
In line with national goals for disaster resilience and social welfare, Bataan has established itself as a leader in proactive governance. Its Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council received Beyond Compliance recognition at the 24th Gawad Kalasag Awards for exemplary emergency preparedness.
The province’s Provincial Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children was also cited as Highly Functional by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, reflecting its commitment to social protection.
Bataan’s innovative public service campaigns highlight its dedication to inclusivity and stakeholder engagement.
The “Kwentuhan Tayo, Bataeño” program, recognized as the Best Public Service Campaign by the Presidential Communications Office, is a prime example of effective community-centered communication.
Further collaboration with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on the Paleng-QR PH Plus Program earned the province the Most Outstanding Stakeholder title, promoting financial literacy and digital payment adoption in local communities.
Bataan’s Peace and Order Council and Anti-Drug Abuse Council received high-performance ratings from the DILG, affirming its commitment to safety and security as essential components of development.
The Ideal Functionality citation for its Local Project Monitoring Committee also demonstrates effective program implementation and transparency.
Governor Garcia attributed these accomplishments to the collective efforts of the provincial government and its residents.
“Ang araw ng pagkakatatag ng Bataan ay hindi lamang tungkol sa kasaysayan. Ito ay isang malalim na paalala na ang tunay na lakas at pundasyon ng ating lalawigan ay ang bawat isa sa inyo. Ang sipag ng bawat magulang, ang pangarap ng bawat kabataan, at ang pagmamalasakit ng bawat isa ang bumubuo sa matatag na lalawigan ng Bataan (The founding anniversary of Bataan is not just about history. It is a profound reminder that the true strength and foundation of our province lie in each one of you. The hard work of every parent, the dreams of every youth, and the care of each individual make up the strong province of Bataan),” he said.
As it continues to align its programs with President Marcos’ socio-economic agenda, Bataan exemplifies how local governments can drive progress and inclusivity.
The province’s 268th anniversary was not merely a celebration of its past but a declaration of its commitment to national growth.
Through visionary leadership and strong governance, Bataan stands as a beacon of progress for the Philippines. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3-Bataan)
