Author: pixelpgsnadmin

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—Along with the big-ticket projects that the present administration has been undertaking since Governor Ramon V. Guico III assumed office in July 2022, various regular infrastructure projects were completed as of May 6, 2024.

These projects include provincial and barangay roads, bridges, and other facilities such as classrooms, provincial government buildings, and various health facilities.

The Provincial Engineering Office (PEO) reported that P546,383,645.35 was funded for 131 projects.

The number of projects per district is accounted for as follows: District 1, 14 projects (P56,171,246.98); District II, 14 (P92,019,830.02); District III, 31 (P96,270,825.33); District IV, 9 (P21,638,327.20); District V, 20 (P82,184,036.54); and District VI, 30 (P149,269,178.01). Of the total number of projects, 13 are buildings or facilities with a contract cost of P48,830,201.27.

The completed projects covered routine maintenance work for provincial roads and bridges, including concreting, asphalting, graveling, and maintaining barangay roads and bridges.

Most projects for concreting, asphalting, and blocktopping of farm-to-market roads, provincial and barangay roads, and bridges were in the towns of Agno, Bani, Infanta, Burgos, Anda, Dasol, Bolinao, Mangatarem, Urbiztondo, Lingayen, Bugallon, Malasiqui, Mapandan, San Carlos City, Bayambang, Manaoag, San Jacinto, Mangaldan, Binalonan, Urdaneta City, Pozorrubio, Villasis, Bautista, Sison, Umingan, Asingan, Rosales, Balungao, San Manuel, and Laoac.

Further, 10 multi-purpose buildings and a legislative building, which cost 40.8 million, were constructed in Balungao, San Quintin, Urdaneta City, Malasiqui, Bayambang, and Bani.

Meanwhile, the PEO reported that a total of 25 projects with contract costs of about P440,743,013.44 are currently ongoing, including the construction of monuments and a connector bridge at Ramos Island in Hundred Islands National Park, the repainting of government hospitals, the conversion of the Youth Development Center into Pangasinan Polytechnic College, the construction of covered courts and farm-to-market roads, the reconstruction of some bridges and road networks, and the construction of water systems.

Governor Guico vowed to pursue the completion of various infrastructure projects to enhance productivity across all sectors of the province. (Ruby F. Rayat/PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—Clad in colorful costumes, contingents of street dancers from eightmunicipalities in Pangasinan displayed their festive moves to the strong beats of instruments on May 1.

Gayaga: Pangasinan Festival Street Dance Exhibition was one of the much-awaited activities of the Pista’yDayat 2024 celebration.

Unmindful of the scorching heat, hordes of audience members enjoyed the festival dance exhibitions, which are living proof of what Pangasinan is and how rich and diverse the local culture has transcended through the years.

With the Capitol building as a backdrop, the eight local festivals featured in the exhibition were as follows: 100 Island Festival (Alaminos City); Balligi Festival (San Manuel); Bagoong Festival (Lingayen); Talong Festival (Villasis); Karabasa Festival (Umingan); Mango and Bamboo Festival (San Carlos City); Pakwan Festival (Bani); and Kankanen Festival (Asingan).8

Governor Ramon V. Guico III commended the participating groups as he hailed the LGU heads for extending their full support to the provincial government by joining the exhibition.

He cited that the event highlights the best culture of each town or city, as it shows how beautiful Pangasinan is.

“Pista’y Dayat being the’ Mother of All Festivals’ in Pangasinan aptly shows the diverse culture of the province”, Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG Lambino said after welcoming the contingents and guests.

Gracing the event were actor-politician Lito Lapid, Mark Lapid, and Kapuso Sparkle artists Juancho Trivino and Lianne Valentin. (Ruby F. Rayat,Omar Cruz /PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—Pozorrubians take pride in congratulating their very own maiden, Lyha Yzhienne M. Laylo, for winning the major title in the Grand Coronation Night for Limgas na Pangasinan 2024 last April 26.

In the Facebook account of the Local Government Unit, Mayor Kelvin Chan expressed gratitude to the newly-crowned sea festival queen by stating, “With all pride and highest commendation, we congratulate you, Ms. Laylo, for winning the crown! ”

The beauty and brains from Pozorrubio will represent Pangasinan in the prestigious national tilt, Miss World Philippines.

Jenesse Viktoria D. Mejia of Malasiqui and Pearline Joy M. Bayog of Lingayen were adjudged Limgas na Pangasinan 2024-Grand and Limgas na Pangasinan 2024-Mutya, respectively.

Aside from the huge prizes at stake for the ladies, each of the three Local Government Units (LGUs) they represent will also be awarded P1 million worth of tourism-related projects for their towns

Joining the three title holders were Limgas na Sta. Barbara Izzy Nina V. Bernardino, 1st runner-up; Limgas na Urbiztondo Rebecca Rose P. Ayuban, 2nd runner-up; and Limgas na Binalonan, Paulie Alexa F. Camat, 3rd runner-up.

Meanwhile, Pangasinan First Lady Maan Tuazon-Guico, also the honorary chairperson of Limgas na Pangasinan, commended the candidates as she encouraged them to serve as the epitome of Pangasinense women whose beauty is beyond aesthetics.

Governor Ramon V. Guico III, in his inspirational message, expressed elation in the transformation of Limgas na Pangasinan under the stewardship of the First Lady as he likened the ‘Mother of All Pageants’ in Pangasinan to the envisioned massive transformation of the Capitol Complex and its environs in the offing.

Stating that Limgas na Pangasinan is the highlight of the Pista’y Dayat (Sea Festival), Gov. Guico thanked the local chief executives for their all-out support to the pageant by sending their representative.

Aside from the major titles, minor awards were given on coronation night. These are as follows: Miss Friendship: Pearline Joy M. Bayog (Lingayen); Best in Swimsuit: Jenesse Viktoria D. Mejia (Malasiqui); Best in Creative Costume: Diana Mae Pangan (Calasiao); Smart Texters’ Choice: Yra Mae Secretario (San Manuel); Darling of the Press: Best in Talent and Best in Evening Gown: Lyha Yzhienne M. Laylo (Pozorrubio); Miss Photogenic: Andrea R. Cayabyab and Best Artist Video; Best Advocacy Video: Reeven L. Sabado (Umingan);.

The event was hosted by no less than Miss Supranational 2023 1st runner-up Pauline Amelinckx and Kapuso artist Martin Javier and was graced by another Kapuso star, Derrick Monasterio, as a serenader.

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—Governor Ramon V. Guico III will sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with different national, regional, and provincial agencies and stakeholders from Regions 1 and III for the creation of the Gama-Nayom River Watershed Management Council.

This developed after the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) on April 29 approved a resolution authored by Board Member Vici M. Ventanilla for the purpose.

The creation of the council will specifically boost the goal of protecting, rehabilitating, developing, managing, and utilizing natural resources within the Gama-Nayom River Watershed, a major river that covers the provinces of Zambales and Pangasinan.

Hence, the Gama-Nayom River Watershed Management Council shall serve as an oversight and advisory body on watershed planning and implementation of programs and projects within the area.

The management council will be composed of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, National Irrigation Administration and National Commission on Indigenous Peoples; the Regional Offices-1 of Mines and Geo-Sciences; Provincial Government Units of Zambales and Pangasinan; Municipalities of Infanta, Bugallon and Aguilar; Province of Zambales; Infanta Waterworks System; Sta. Cruz Water District; CBFM PO Federation of Pangasinan; Eastern Sta. Cruz Community Management Center, Inc.; and CS First Green Agri-Industrial Development, Inc.

“Effective and purposive collaboration and coordination of development initiatives among all stakeholders in a watershed, including LGUs, national government agencies, NGOs, peoples’ organizations, and the private sector, will hasten and facilitate the realization of the goals envisioned under DENR Administrative Order No. 23 Series of 2005,” the resolution stated.

Furthermore, the resolution disclosed that the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, expressed its full support and active involvement in the collaborative undertaking for the protection and sustainable management of the environment and natural resources.

“Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, mandates local government units to establish, maintain, preserve, and conserve communal forests and watersheds,” the resolution further cited.

(Ruby F. Rayat, Joey Olimpo/PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—The Asinan Music and Arts Festival 2024 started with a concert featuring famed music artists as the first wave of performers on April 27 at Capitol Beach Park.

The free concert was the first act of the much-anticipated music and arts festival, one of the highlights of this year’s celebration of Pista’y Dayat (Sea Festival).

The crowd relished the performances of local bands Paul’s Alarm, Avant Band, Pastel Sky, indie artist Toneejay, Filipino rock band Dilaw, and famed drag queen Taylor Sheesh.

Governor Ramon “Mon-Mon” V. Guico III also graced the stage and greeted the audience as he tossed t-shirts to the crowd as giveaways.

Joining the governor was Pangasinan First Lady Maan Tuazon-Guico, who is the brains behind the fusion of musical and arts activities for this year’s sea festival.

In a post on its Facebook account, the First Lady said, “A promise made is a promise kept. Last year, we made a promise na magkakaroon tayo ng sariling Music Festival.”

The final act of the Asinan Konsyerto will take place on May 1 at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center (NRSCC), with no less than music icon Bamboo as the lead performer, along with other concert performers like Flow-G, Skusta Clee, Pricetagg, Illest Morena, Zae, and others.

The said concert will be open to the public and can be watched via live stream on the official Facebook page of the province. (Ruby F. Rayat/PIMRO, with reports from Rainier James Rosario/OJT)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—Who will wear the much-coveted crown of Limgas na Pangasinan 2024?

The answer remains to be seen as 19 equally lovely ladies representing various localities in Pangasinan will vie for three different titles in the Grand Coronation at 8 o’clock tonight, April 26, at the Capitol Grandstand here.

Earlier, the official candidates outshined each other during the pre-pageant night on April 19 at the historic Sison Auditorium. The ladies competed in six segments of the competition: festival/creative costume, talent, pre-judging, swimsuit, gown, and question and answer.

In the pre-pageant night, minor awards were given, and the top 10 ladies were determined based on the results of the six segments of the beauty contest.

Meanwhile, Grand Coronation Night is expected to be a star-studded event, with a line-up of notable personalities like Miss Philippines Universe 2023 Michelle Dy being one of the judges. The event will be hosted by no less than Miss Supranational 2023 1st runner-up Pauline Amelinckx and Kapuso artist Martin Javier and will be graced by another Kapuso star, Derrick Monasterio, as a serenader.

Joining the beauteous Ms. Dy as jurors are Mr. Gerry Diaz, Head of Aces & Queens; Mr. Arnold Vegafria, Chairman and CEO of ALV Pageant Circle Management; International Fashion Designer Rian Fernandez; Ms. Maria Gigante, Universal Woman 2024; Tracy Maureen Perez, Miss World Philippines 2021; and Billie Hakenson, Miss Universe Philippines 2020-4th runner-up.

The three titles at stake will be Limgas na Pangasinan World, Limgas na Pangasinan Grand, and Limgas na Pangasinan Tourism.

Here are the names of the 19 candidates: 1) Pearline Joy M. Bayog (Lingayen); 2) Paulie Alexa F. Camat (Binalonan); 3) Alyssa Jeneveve Padillon (Urdaneta City); 4) Irish Ann Caido (Asingan); 5) Jenesse Viktoria P. Mejia (Malasiqui); 6) Danica N. Maglalang (Mapandan); 7) Diana Mae B. Pangan (Calasiao); 8) Jary L. Padica (Balungao); 9) Jay Ann Zarate (Manaoag); 10) Reeven L. Sabado (Umingan); 11) Yra Mae Secretario (San Manuel); 12) Camille Angela S. Suratos (Mangaldan); 13) Lyha Yzhienne M. Laylo (Pozorrubio); 14) Rebecca Rose P. Ayuban (Urbiztondo); 15) Kathleen Jane M. Andaya (Villasis); 16) Ruth Mae S. Artates (Sual); 17) Izzy Niña V. Bernardino (Sta. Barbara); 18) Tonette Alexandrea G. Mendoza (Mangatarem); 19) Andrea R. Cayabyab (San Fabian).

Limgas na Pangasinan is chaired by First Lady Maan Tuazon-Guico.

(Ruby F. Rayat/PIMRO)

The province, in collaboration with national agencies, has fostered concrete actions aligned with environmental stewardship through TUPAD, Food for Work, and Canopy programs.

The provincial government, through Gov. Ramon V. Guico III, will enter into and sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for the implementation of Tulong Panghanapbuhay Sa Ating Disadvantaged (TUPAD) Workers and the provision of equity of at least 20% of the total project cost.

The DOLE in partnership with the Provincial Government of Pangasinan is mandated to implement TUPAD to provide temporary wage employment to disadvantaged workers for 10 days to help alleviate their plight.

The 10-day TUPAD activities are as follows: Day 1 of TUPAD will be the orientation; Day 2 will be the preparation of materials; Day 3 will be coastal preparation; Day 5 will be seedling preparation; Day 6–8 will be mangrove planting; and Day 9–10 will be cleaning (coastal cleaning, barangay cleaning, special assignment).

TUPAD workers will receive P435.00 per day, or a total of P4,350.00 for 10 days in cash.

Similarly, the food-for-work program has been conducted for beneficiaries identified based on the following criteria: those belonging to poor families or households, the disadvantaged, members of the disability sector, youth, and physically able senior citizens.

Implemented only this year, the program already had a total of 580 beneficiaries in three (3) areas, including the 100 food-for-work recipients in Eco-Park in Bugallon, Salt Farm in Bolinao with 200, and LGU Sison with 280 beneficiaries who have rendered food-for-work services simultaneously in different barangays in celebration of Women’s Month (awareness of women in terms of environmental issues).

Headed by Project Implementer Pat Orduna, the Eco Park food-for-work beneficiaries worked from March 7–26 (first batch) and from April 1–23 (second batch).

Each received seven (7) family packs for the 14 days worked (one food pack for every two working days).

The successful implementation of the Green Canopy program was part of the province’s strengthening efforts geared towards a sustainable future.

The province has planted about 29,934 trees for 2024, which kicked off in Bolinao on January 10, and some 149,964 in 2023.

The TUPAD, Food for Work, and the Green Canopy are three projects that proved to be instrumental in significantly uplifting lives and in the protection and preservation of the environment.

(Chona C. Bugayong, Orland Llemos/PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—Limgas na Pangasinan 2024 is not just a display of beauty, wit, and charm but a fusion of Pangasinense local designers craftsmanship, creativity, and ingenuity.

In the pre-pageant night held on April 19 at the Sison Auditorium here, 19 equally lovely ladies outshine each other in six different segments of the competition to include Best in Creative Costume, Best in Talent, Pre-Judging, Best in Swimsuit, Best in Evening Gown, and in the interview conducted by the board of judges. The pre-judging was held at the Pangasinan Training and Development Center before the pre-pageant kicked off.

As Pangasinan First Lady Maan Tuazon-Guico, who chairs the Limgas na Pangasinan executive committee, said in her speech, “Limgas na Pangasinan is in search of the totality of the fairest maiden who can live up to the crown and who can carry the province’s name in the national arena or even in the international scene.”

Earlier, Mrs. Guico lauded the local designers in Pangasinan for their all-out support for the pageant and for giving their best shot at displaying their artistry.

It can be recalled that the province collaborated with world-class coaching organizations such as the Aces and Queens to provide training and coaching for Limgas beauties.

Meanwhile, the 19 official candidates for Limgas na Pangasinan 2024 paraded their creative costumes, which served as the curtain-raiser on the pre-pageant night. Their evening gowns, which are made by local designers in their respective localities, also mesmerized the audience.

The following are the names of the 19 official candidates with their local designers: 1) Pearline Joy M. Bayog (Lingayen)/Mahoumi Vila; 2)Paulie Alexa F. Camat (Binalonan/Bryant Aunor; 3) Alyssa Jeneveve Padillon (Urdaneta City)/Zaldy Gorospe; 4) Irish Ann Caido (Asingan)/Arby Baquirin; 5) Jenesse Viktoria D. Mejia (Malasiqui)/Raymund Garcia; 6)Danica N. Maglalang (Mapandan)/Bench Fredhic; 7)Diana Mae Pangan (Calasiao)/Ronald Cruz; 8)Jary L. Padica (Balungao)/Edison Bergantinos; 9) Jay Ann Zarate (Manaoag)/Rodel Dioso; 10) Reeven L. Sabado (Umingan)/Margoth Digap; 11) Yra Mae Secretario (San Manuel)/Joseas Dimzon; 12) Camille Angela Suratos (Mangaldan)/Thonete de Ocampo; 13) Lyha Yzhienne M. Laylo (Pozorrubio)/Roger Vallesterol; 14)Rebecca Rose P. Ayuban (Urbiztondo)/Michael Cabamangan; 15) Kathleen Jane M. Andaya (Villasis)/Netnet Morden; 16) Ruth Mae Artates (Sual)/Gem Orpilla; 17) Izzy Nina V. Bernardino/Bart Loresco; 18) Tonette Alexandrea G. Mendoza (Mangatarem)/Ricah Lopez; 19) Andrea R. Cayabyab (San Fabian)/ Jose Gil Disu.

In the pre-pageant night, six ladies won minor awards as follows: Andrea R. Cayabyab (San Fabian): Miss Casipit Smile (Casipit Dental Clinic); Paulie Alexa F. Camat (Binalonan): Miss Nikki Redefined Beauty: Beauty Face of the Night; Jenesse Viktoria D. Mejia (Malasiqui): Nikki Redefined Beauty: Best Skin; Danica Maglalang: Miss La Pueblo; Reeven L. Sabado (Umingan): Miss Serendipity Dental Care; Jenesse Viktoria D. Mejia (Malasiqui): Miss Luxure Brows.

The board of judges were: Mayor Nina Jose Quiambao (chairperson), along with Mr. Raymond Galang of Aces and Queens; Miss Eco Teen 2021 Tatyana Austria; established fashion designers Mikee Andrei, Glen Canlas, and Harvic Dominguez; and Miss Grand Uzbikestan 2023 Amaliya Shakirova.

Expressing support during the event were Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino, who delivered a welcome address and was joined by his wife, Atty. Melanie Lambino. Also present were some members of the provincial board and various provincial government department heads led by Provincial Administrator Melicio ‘Ely’ F. Patague II.

Grand Coronation Night will be held on April 26 (Friday) at the Capitol Plaza. It will be graced by some GMA Kapuso artists and Miss Philippines-Universe Michelle Dy. (RFR/PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—Governor Ramon V. Guico III will sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)—Regional Office 1 for the conduct of PRC Mobile Services during job fairs organized by the Pangasinan PESO throughout the province.

For this purpose, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) on April 15 approved a resolution giving authority for the governor to ink a partnership with the PRC-RO 1.

As stated in the resolution authored by SP Member Jerry Agerico Rosario, the agreement between the Provincial Government of Pangasinan and PRC-RO 1 will set forth the duties and obligations of the parties concerning the implementation of the program in the province.

“The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, which organizes job fairs as part of its commitment to promote employment opportunities and economic development for the people, shall collaborate with the PRC Regional Office 1 to bring those transactions to the province and make those mobile services more accessible and available to Pangasinenses to save travel time and expenses, particularly for professionals and other stakeholders,” the resolution disclosed.

Services transactions to be extended by the PRC are as follows: Initial Registration, Renewal, and Duplication of Professional Identification Cards (PIC); Processing Applications for Certification of Good Standing; Board Rating Certification; Board Passing Certification; PIC Authentication; Certificate of Registration Authentication; Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Evaluation; State Board Verification; Exam Application Processing and Issuance Authentication for Board Rating and Board Passing Certifications; and Handling Petitions for Change of Status and Correction of Name/Date of Birth.

“Pursuant to the provisions of RA No. 8981, commonly known as the Professional Regulation Commission Modernization Act of 2000, the PRC is conducting mobile services as part of its initiative to efficiently extend its services to clients in remote and underserved areas,” the resolution likewise stated.

(Ruby R. Bernardino, Joey Olimpo/PIMRO)

Lingayen, Pangasinan –  Six hundred fifty honorees and awardees of the provincial government were recognized for their exemplary performance and commendable behavior during the 2023 Gawad ang Galing! Employees’ Awards and Recognition.

Held at the Sison Auditorium on April 11, Human Resource Management and Development Office (HRMDO) Head Janette C. Asis said that for the first time, cash incentives were given to 400 employees who have been serving the provincial government for 30 years or more. Unlike in the past, only retirees were given cash incentives.

The event was another legacy program and a historic first under the leadership of Gov. Ramon V. Guico III.

Gov. Guico said that he personally signed the certificates of recognition as a way to express his sincere gratitude for the years of service that the workers have rendered to the province.

Gov. Guico also mentioned his legacy projects.

“Ako po ay hindi magsisisi na tinutukan natin ay legacy projects. Legacy projects mean we may not reap the rewards even during our term, but the following generations will surely enjoy what we have planted today,” he further added.

In terms of resources, Gov. Guico said that the province is very rich in resources, but the best resources of the province are the Pangasinenses themselves.

In closing, VG Mark Ronald DG Lambino conveyed his message of gratitude to the recipients who consistently demonstrated excellence in their performance.

“Maraming-maraming salamat po sa mahigit tatlumpong taon na pagseserbisyo niyo sa ating probinsiya at gobyerno. Sana po ay huwag kayong magsasawa na ibigay o ibuhos ang inyong galing para sa probinsiya ng Pangasinan,” he said.

Employees were recognized in various categories, namely: Lingkod ng Bayan Award (retirees), Pag-asa ng Bayan Award (employee category/accomplishing beyond the target of their jobs), Dangal ng Bayan Award (employee category/exemplify beyond expectation the core values of the provincial government of Pangasinan), On the Spot Award (employee category/doing or performing their job beyond expectation), Overall Winners (On the Spot Award, Dangal ng Bayan Award, and Pag-asa ng Bayan Award), Innovative Program Award, ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System Certified Offices and Hospital, Civil Service Heroes, and Service Award (Loyalty Award – 30 years in service and above).

Awards and recognition for the three (3) categories—Pag-asa ng Bayan, Dangal ng Bayan, and On the Spot—were aligned with the Civil Service Honor Awards Program.

On the occasion were Director, Civil Service Commission-Western Pangasinan Field Office Flordeliza C. Bugtong, Provincial Director-Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Virgilio P. Sison, CESO V, 4th District Board Member and Committee Chairman, Committee on Human Resource and Development, Labor and Employment Concerns Jerry Agerico B. Rosario, 3rd District Board Member Shiela Marie F. Baniqued, Chiefs of Hospital, and the Department Heads headed by Provincial Administrator Melicio F. Patague II

(Chona C. Bugayong, Rich Majin, Jairus Sibayan/PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—The Pangasinan Provincial Board, during its regular session on April 15, approved a resolution endorsing to the Department of Health (DOH) the application for a permit to construct infrastructure projects at the Pangasinan Provincial Hospital (PPH) in Bolingit, San Carlos City.

Board Member Shiela Marie F. Baniqued said that considering the number of patients who are seeking medical services at the PPH, there is an urgent need to improve the facilities to cater to the number of patients being served by the hospital.

As such, the old pharmacy at the PPH will be converted into an MRI room. The Radiology Complex, on the other hand, will be repaired or rehabilitated.

“In line with the main thrusts of the present administration to have a mass-based health care program to accommodate all people, especially the less fortunate sector of society, there is a need to support the plan of the Pangasinan Provincial Hospital to provide a more sufficient and higher level of medical and health services to its patients through the implementation of the infrastructure projects,” the resolution partly stated.

Quality health services is one of the priority programs of Governor Ramon V. Guico III. Included in the list of priorities for health is the improvement of the facilities of all 14 government-run hospitals in the province, along with the acquisition of modern and state-of-the-art equipment and the hiring of additional medical experts and professionals to manage the facilities.

“Before the issuance of a license to construct, a Provincial Board Resolution is required by the Department of Health (DOH) to facilitate the issuance of the permit to construct a health facility,” the resolution cited. (Ruby R. Bernardino,Joey Olimpo/PIMRO

Six (6) teams showcased their exceptional talents, creativity, culinary skills, and expertise during the Pista’y Dayat Culinary Challenge.

Held at the Pangasinan Training and Development Center II (PTDC II) on April 13, the activity was spearheaded by the Pangasinan Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) Head, Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan.

Aguilar town takes pride in Hiraya (Abong ni Tio Berto), represented by Chef Rizal Viray and SOUS-Chef Jomar De Guzman, for bagging first place with a high 93.9% rating in the culinary challenge.

Viray and De Guzman’s winning recipes that delighted the taste buds of the panel of judges include chicken roulade with Alaminos longganisa (the main dish), tartari aburi or bangus aburi (the appetizer), and bibingka mango cheesecake (the dessert).

“Galingan lang nila lagi, araw-araw silang magdiscover at huwag matakot magkamali para sa ikakabuti naman nila yun pagdating ng araw,” was Viray’s piece of advice to other chefs and aspiring chefs.

Receiving PHP 25,000.00 and a trophy, Viray said that they owe their success to their boss, who encouraged and gave his full support and trust to them.

Meanwhile, JEMS Cuisine (with Chef Ryan Cortez & SOUS-Chef Johara Dytianquin) in San Carlos City emerged in 2nd place, while D Brinks Resto Café (with Chef Jesus Viliran & SOUS-Chef Jetlie Garcia) in Binalonan garnered 3rd place with a cash prize of P20,000.00 and P15,000.00 and a trophy, respectively.

Kapeluna Restaurant (with Daryll Magalong & Allan Datuin) in Bayambang, Quinit Integrated Eco-Farm (with Gerald Quinit & SOUS-Chef Jane Carla Payopay) in Calasiao, and Cajun Republique (with Chef Victor Luis Tandoc & SOUS-Chef David Emmanuel Pascua) in Binmaley all received a P10,000.00 cash prize.

The competitor’s mouth-watering dishes were judged on the following criteria: taste and cohesiveness of the menu (40%); execution (30%); originality, creativity, and visual appeal (20%), and, hygiene and cleanliness of the station (10%), for a total of 100%.

The panel of judges include Chef Raymond Martin M. Reyes, currently the Executive Chef of LU Asian Cuisine; Chef Christian Yakie V. Takanashi, currently the owner of Shiok, A Taste of Singapore in Dagupan City; and, Chef Karina S. Mantes, currently the Pastry Baker and Cake Decorator of the Sweet Sense and the Manager of the Damortis Petron Service Center in La Union.

4th District Board Member Marinor B. De Guzman who represented Governor Ramon V. Guico III, said that the contest serves as a beacon of innovation and creativity, inviting chefs and culinary enthusiasts alike to showcase their talents and passion for the local cuisine.

“It is no secret that food holds a special place in the heart of every Filipino, serving as a testament to our identity and traditions,” BM De Guzman further added.

Gracing the occasion was Gaye Nora Marie A. Gapas, Chief Tourism Operations Officer, who represented Regional Director Jeff Ortega, Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 1, and GMA celebrity chef JR Royol, who shared his exceptional talent and skills in cooking with his ‘ginataang isda’ with a twist in a cooking demo.

Other guests in attendance were culinary participants, NLEX Lakbay Norte Tour Group, Pangasinan Tour Operators, Food Vloggers, Content Creators and Social Media Influencers among others.

(Chona C. Bugayong, Orland C, Llemos, Rafe H. Gabayero / PIMRO)