Under the dynamic leadership of Gov. Atty. Jose V. Gambito, Nueva Vizcaya has officially attained the status of a first-class province, effective January 1, 2025. This remarkable achievement follows the issuance of Department Order No. 074, Series of 2024, by the Department of Finance (DOF), signed by Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto on November 5, 2024.
Provinces are classified based on their average annual regular income over the past three fiscal years. A province qualifies as first-class if its average income exceeds Php 1.5 billion. Nueva Vizcaya surpassed this threshold, reporting an impressive annual income of over Php 2 billion in 2023, which included over ₱700 million in local taxes. The province’s locally sourced revenue for fiscal year 2023 hit ₱717,096,656.06, exceeding the target of ₱391,387,274.00 and achieving an impressive collection efficiency rate of 183.22%. This exceptional performance underscores a thriving business environment within the province. Furthermore, the province showcased a stupendous year-on-year growth rate of 68.20% in total locally sourced revenues from fiscal year 2022 to 2023, demonstrating its economic tenacity for continued growth and development.
Gov. Gambito has consistently championed innovation in provincial projects, with a clear vision to transform Nueva Vizcaya into a model of convenience and prosperity for all Novo Vizcayanos. Key initiatives under his leadership include the beautification of the province, the modernization of tax collection processes, and the stimulation of robust economic growth. Noteworthy projects such as “Kalsada ti Kabanbantayan” and “Dalan ti Umili” focus on enhancing farm-to-market roads. To further improve infrastructure in remote areas, Gov. Gambito initiated the “Silaw ti Umili” program, providing solar power to previously underserved communities. He also advocates for “Dara ti Umili,” a program that encourages Novo Vizcayanos to transition from blood recipients to blood donors.
Through a combination of transparent governance, innovative infrastructure, and sound economic strategies, Gov. Gambito has propelled Nueva Vizcaya as the second-fastest-growing province in the country and, now, a first-class province.
[This article was initially created on Facebook – Vizcaya Reporter. For PLGU-Nueva Vizcaya updates, visit: https://www.facebook.com/vizcayareporter]
