PUDTOL, Apayao – The 68th founding anniversary of Pudtol was not only a celebration of milestones but likewise a bittersweet farewell for its leader.
In his final anniversary address as mayor of the town, Mayor Hector Reuel Pascua struck a reflective tone in celebrating the municipality’s progress while urging his constituents to carry the torch forward.
“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to each and every one of you for all the success stories that we have in the municipality of Pudtol,” Pascua said, speaking directly to the municipal officials and residents who attended the commemorative program on December 5. “Sana ipagpatuloy pa natin ang magandang tradition of being a successful town,” he added.
The year 2024 is a breakthrough year for Pudtol. The town climbed to second-class status which reflected its economic progress and earned recognition as one of the top three performing municipalities in the country during the Subaybayani Awards.
On top of these, Pudtol likewise received the prestigious Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), an honor reserved for Local Government Units (LGUs) that exemplify transparency, accountability and service excellence. It was also awarded the Gawad Kalasag Beyond Compliant award for disaster risk preparedness.
“Our success as a municipality is attributed to all the efforts of everyone,” the mayor said, acknowledging the contribution of everybody, “Dahil sa inyong tatag, talino, at ganon na rin sa inyong enthusiasm, yung paniniwala ninyo sa totoong pagsisilbi sa bayan, kaya natin nakamtan ang mga ito.”
As he nears the end of his term, Pascua shared mixed emotions. “This is my last celebration of founding anniversary as mayor, and I am so glad na nangyayari ang mga ito. Feeling ko cum laude ako eh,” Pascua said with a smile.
He then urged the residents to remain united as the town continues its journey under new leadership. “Whether you like it or not, I will not be the mayor anymore and so we hope that the next leader, nu siasino man, ket agkakabsat tayo latta,” he stated.
Expressing confidence in the political maturity of the yApayaos and his constituents, the mayor believes that the people can maintain political stability, saying “Alam na alam na natin kung ano ang gagawin. Saan tayo kuma tuladen dagiti makitkita tayo iti sabsabali a lugar.”
The mayor ended his speech with a hopeful note, urging all to “continue the tradition of making Pudtol a successful town.” By Jess Christley Marquez
