The inaugural session of the 17th Sangguniang Bayan (SB) ng Camalig for the year 2025-2028 term was called to order today, July 8, 2025, at the SB session hall, marking the start of a renewed administrative cycle for the local government. The event was witnessed by local officials, department heads and functionaries, and partner agencies, who heard the officials’ commitments and laid-out plans for the town’s development.

 

During the event, re-elected Mayor Hon. Carlos “Caloy” Irwin G. Baldo, Jr. presented his high-impact priority projects, and revamped 10-point executive agenda intended to reshape the municipality in the years to come.

 

Baldo highlighted five high-impact projects designed to address pressing local issues and promote sustainable growth:

 

1. Efficient Transport System and Traffic Management:

 

This includes the establishment of a trimodal transport terminal, implementation of one-side parking dubbed as “Project Paseo”, a truck ban policy, and the use of digital hailing apps such as Grab, Angkas, or Joyride. Traffic directional and information signs will also be deployed to ease congestion and improve mobility.

 

2. Digital, Transparent, and Responsive Governance:

 

The local government will push for paperless or digital transformation by enabling online transactions through GCash, PayMaya, Asenso, and online banking. Baldo also believes that data warehousing and advanced financial management softwares will enhance transparency and efficiency.

 

3. Local Economic Enterprising and Diversification:

 

Initiatives include the establishment of an Apay or Gabi plantation, offering tax concessions, creating a local economic enterprise office, and shifting focus from primary industries to a more diversified economic base to attract wider business opportunities.

 

4. Sustainable and Smart Tourism:

 

The plan involves exploring new recreational destinations, promoting agri- and adventure tourism, and integrating digital solutions to enhance visitor experience.

 

5. Access to Academic and Educational Systems:

 

The establishment of the town’s first college, the Camalig Polytechnic Institute (CPI) aims to provide accessible higher education for local residents.

 

Baldo also presented a comprehensive 10-point executive agenda to guide governance:

 

1. Comprehensive tourism development and promotion

2. Enhanced academic and educational system

3. Modernized and mechanized agricultural programs

4. Competitive investor-driven economy with innovative revenue sources

5. Localized infrastructure projects under the “Build, Better, More” program

6. Expanded medical, health, and nutritional services

7. Responsive social welfare programs

8. Strengthened peace and order initiatives

9. Innovative and resilient disaster management system

10. Effective, transparent, and participatory local governance

 

Vice Mayor Hon. Maria Ahrdail “Ding” G. Baldo also revealed her legislative agenda which focuses on agriculture, livelihood, education, and inclusive governance. “Let us make every session count. We owe this to the people. We must uphold the principles of coequality,” she exclaimed.

 

Municipal Councilors from the “One Camalig” slate, which includes Hon. Purisima “Ching” Nocedo, Hon. Sherwin “Ian” Buena, Hon. Abegail “Begs” Go, Hon. Felipe “Mr. Turismo” Napa Jr., Hon. Millard Moyo, Hon. Shellie Vibar, Hon. Dennise Misolania, Hon. Sheila Marie “Shei” Dino, Liga ng mga Barangay President Hon. Glen Naparam, and SK Federation Vice President Hon. Roger Gnilo Jr., also delivered their respective inaugural speeches. They pledged their full support to Mayor Baldo and his administration.