Dinapigue inaugurates SGLG-funded Pasalubong Center, marks 57th founding anniversary
By Merlito G. Edale, Jr.
June 26, 2026
CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela (PIA) — The coastal municipality of Dinapigue in Isabela celebrated its 57th founding anniversary on June 21 with the inauguration of a new Pasalubong Center, a project funded through the municipality’s incentive grant from the 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), highlighting the government’s continuing efforts to promote local economic growth and improve community livelihoods.
The day-long celebration was led by Mayor Vicente D. Mendoza and opened with a Thanksgiving Mass officiated by the Saint John the Baptist Mission, followed by a civic parade joined by local officials, representatives of national government agencies, barangay leaders, and other stakeholders.
Mendoza and Isabela Fourth District Representative Engr. Joseph Salvador Tan led the inauguration rites together with Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 2 Director Agnes A. De Leon and other officials and representatives from various government agencies.
Mendoza said the Pasalubong Center, which costs P1.153 million, was funded through the municipality’s incentive grant after earning the prestigious SGLG award in 2024, a recognition given to local government units (LGUs) that demonstrate excellence in governance, transparency, accountability, and public service delivery.
He said the facility will serve as a venue for promoting locally produced goods, creating market opportunities for local entrepreneurs, strengthening tourism, and generating additional income for residents.
“The Pasalubong Center is more than just a structure. It is an investment in our people’s livelihoods and a testament to what good governance can achieve for our community,” Mendoza said.
DILG Region 2 Director De Leon and Provincial Director Toribio commended the municipal government for translating good governance into projects that directly benefit residents, noting that the SGLG incentive program empowers LGUs to implement development initiatives that address the needs of their constituents.
Congressman Tan also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Dinapigue’s development agenda through infrastructure, tourism, and livelihood programs aimed at improving the quality of life of Dinapigueños.
The project also supports the administration’s broader goal of fostering inclusive economic growth in rural communities. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has consistently directed government agencies and LGUs to strengthen local economies, expand livelihood opportunities, and ensure that development reaches even geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
As Dinapigue celebrates another milestone in its history, the inauguration of the Pasalubong Center stands as a symbol of how effective governance, national government support, and strong local leadership can work together to create economic opportunities and bring lasting progress to communities. (OTB/MGE/PIA Isabela)
