The Regional Development Council of the Cordillera Administrative Region (RDC-CAR) recognized the contributions of several outgoing regional directors in its first quarter meeting recently. The ceremony, led by Hon. Elias C. Bulut Jr., Chairperson of the RDC-CAR and Governor of Apayao, with the presence of Asst. Secretary Ana Carmela V. Remigio, Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon, celebrated the directors’ accomplishments during their tenure in the region. Dir. Susan A. Sumbeling, RDC-CAR Vice Chairperson and Regional Director of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) and Edna C. Tabanda, Co-Chairperson of the RDC-CAR, joined the aforementioned officials in awarding plaques of appreciation to the honorees and their representatives.
Leo L. Quintilla, former regional director of the Cordillera office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DWSD), who now serves as Special Assistant to the DSWD Secretary and nicknamed the “Archangel in Red Vest,” was lauded for his pivotal role in reducing poverty and enhancing social development programs that uplifted vulnerable Cordilleran households. His efforts since September 2022 have positively impacted the welfare of many families in the region.
Dir. Rio L. Magpantay of Cordillera office of the Department of Health received recognition for his innovative healthcare leadership. He established the Cordillera Regional Planning Monitoring Evaluation and Research Section, the first of its kind in the country. He oversaw the upgrading of health facilities, improved disease surveillance and enhanced the region’s health services accessibility.
Regional Executive Dir. Ralph C. Pablo of Cordillera office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on the other hand, was commended for his dedication to environmental protection and disaster resilience. His leadership in policy formulation, program implementation for ecological integrity, and commitment to natural resource rehabilitation have been pivotal in the region’s environmental sustainability efforts.
Dir. Maria O. Amoroso of Cordillera office of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development was acknowledged for pioneering sustainable socialized housing projects in the region. Her leadership in developing adaptive, resilient, and sustainable communities set a benchmark for housing projects nationwide.
Lastly, Dir. Atanacio D. Addog of National Commission on Indigenous Peoples Cordillera office was recognized for his advocacy in protecting indigenous peoples’ rights and promoting their well-being. His tenure as Chairperson of the Committee on Indigenous Peoples’ Concerns marked advancements in policies, plans, and programs dedicated to Indigenous Peoples in the region.
These awards underscore the directors’ significant contributions and the positive impact of their leadership in inclusive development and genuine governance in the Cordillera Administrative Region. By Aries Dos M. Campos
