By Johnny C. Nunez / Philippines News Agency
LEGAZPI CITY—Various groups here have lined up a monthlong series of activities designed to highlight the development gains and successful programs that helped transform once prostrate Albay into a bustling, multiawarded province.
The activities were initiated, put together and sponsored by various civic groups; local governments and agencies; academic, professional and youth organizations as their “tribute and gift” to Albay Gov. Joey S. Salceda who marks his 54th birthday on October 26. A spokesman for the group said their initiatives constitute their manner of conveying their appreciation and gratitude to Salceda for his successful and “game-changing leadership, and remind Albayanos of their contribution to these achievements and heighten the need to recommit themselves to their goals and sustain their common efforts.”
Salceda has repeatedly stressed and reminded everyone that the “issue is not about being the best, but about what they can do together.” He is now in his third and last term as governor and will run unopposed for congressman of the province’s Second District in the 2016 elections.
Rodel Alzaga, head of the barangay facilities department at the Provincial Capitol, said the Albayanos’ celebration of Salceda’s birthday consists of a monthlong calendar of activities focused on environment protection, and climate change and disaster risk reduction which are galvanizing and winning programs of the province.
The activities, Alzaga said, include tree and mangrove planting, coastal and river cleanups, health and dental civic actions, drug abuse seminars in the barangays, food production and backyard gardening, concerts and feeding programs, among others.