Author: Neilsen Kisim




In celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), volunteers and supporters formed a human Red Cross emblem at Benguet State University on April 15, Saturday which carried the theme “PRC is always first, always ready, and always there in service for humanity.”
The formation of the emblem was witnessed by Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas who
thanked the PRC Benguet for its vital role especially in ensuring adequate blood supply in the province and urged community support for this premier humanitarian organization.
Dr. Ryan Guinaran, Executive Assistant to the Governor, was invited as the guest speaker who expressed appreciation for the work of PRC emphasizing the importance of the organization’s mission in providing assistance to those in need especially during times of disaster and emergency.
Also in attendance was Board Member Marie Rose Fongwan-Kepes, Chair of Board of Directors of PRC-Benguet.
Following the emblem formation was a mass blood donation activity held at the BSU covered court. The PRC has been actively promoting blood donation as a way to save lives especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The organization has been at the forefront of providing humanitarian services to Filipinos earning them recognitions for their contributions to disaster response, blood services, and other health and welfare programs.
Benguet CARES 2023


The Philippines has once again proven its mettle in the world of combat sports with its athletes bringing home medals from the 1st Kun Bokator SEA Championship held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Among the medalists is an iBenguet who showed her boldness and emerged victorious.
Islay Erika Bomogao, competing in the Combat Female 45kg category, won a bronze medal for her impressive performance in the international sports competition.
Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas congratulates Bomogao in her achievement saying the athlete’s success mirrors the talent and skills of the people of Benguet, as it also serves as inspiration to the Benguet youth to pursue their dreams and excel in their chosen fields as well.

The municipality of Kabayan officially kicked off the 14th Eco-Tourism and Bindiyan Festival on April 4, 2023 at the Municipal Ground in Poblacion.
The event which aims to advance Kabayan as a renowned tourist destination was graced by Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas as the guest speaker.
Kabayan Mayor Engr. Florante Bantales, Jr. welcomed all the participants and guests to the event and expressed his gratitude to Gov. Diclas for the P6M development of the Rural Health Unit. He also looked forward to more support for the health facility in the future.
In his message, Gov. Diclas congratulated the town and highlighted the importance of tourism development in the province. He expressed his commitment to the development of the health sector as well as his support to farmers through farm-to-market roads as he works closely with Congressman Eric Go Yap. He also recognized the help of the Almighty and underlined the importance of unity among the people and officials for the development of the town.
The kick-off program was preceded by an ecumenical mass led by the Association of Religious Ministers of Kabayan, followed by a ground-breaking ceremony for the soon-to-rise Municipal Building of Kabayan.
Meanwhile, Municipal Tourism Fernan Bangonan presented all the activities for the month-long celebration of the festival which include a Holy Climb at Mt. Pulag on April 6-7, Launching of the Yellow Trail on April 15, Opening of the Street Market on April 17, Kabayan Battle of the Bands on April 20, Mr. and Ms. Kabayan 2023 on April 25, and the Bindiyan Grand Cañao on April 27.
In his closing remarks, Vice Mayor Mike Badival thanked Gov. Diclas for gracing the event and all the municipal officials and employees who made the event a success.
The 14th Eco-Tourism and Bindiyan Festival is poised to showcase the rich culture of Kabayan and their pride in terms of tourism.

Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas extended support for Ms. Joemay-an Leo, Benguet’s representative to Ms. Universe Philippines 2023, thanking the beauty queen for taking the opportunity to raise awareness and promote the Benguet culture and identity on a national stage of pageantry.
The MUP 2023 coronation night is set this May.
Ms. Leo is Ms. Tuba 2014, Ms. Benguet 2014 First Runner-Up, and Ms. Cordillera 2016.


Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas addresses over 300 participants in the 2023 Benguet Women’s Congress held Monday at the Ben Palispis Hall, Provincial Capitol in celebration of the National Women’s Month.
After highlighting the significant role of women and their contributions to the achievements of the province and the nation, Governor Diclas underscored the importance of strengthening VAWC prevention programs, thus, the strong LGU-PNP partnership. The Governor said they are working closely with the Benguet PPO headed by Provincial Director PCol Damian Olsim for the promotion and protection of women’s rights as well as of their children’s.
The PNP has also been active conducting seminars and IECs on VAWC and other relevant topics.
Meanwhile, Vice Governor Ericson Lawagey Felipe also attended the women’s congress expressing support of the endeavors of the women’s organizations in the province.