“Public service is more than just a job” — Gov. Edduba urges iKalinga public servants to serve with purpose

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — Governor James S. Edduba reminded iKalinga public servants that government service goes beyond earning a living, urging them to perform their duties with humility, accountability, integrity, and genuine concern for the people they serve.

Edduba delivered the message through Provincial Administrator Teddy Gullay during the Araw ng Parangal marking the 126th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary on September 30 at the Kalinga Sports Center, Capitol Hills, Bulanao, Tabuk City.

Addressing provincial and municipal officials, national government partners, awardees, human resource practitioners, public servants, cultural workers, and other participants, Edduba described the gathering as a celebration of accomplishments and a recognition of the people behind the government services delivered to communities.

He congratulated the awardees and honorees, noting that their recognition reflects the dedication, commitment, and integrity that give meaning to public service. He also reminded government workers of the responsibility that comes with the authority entrusted to them by the people.

“...let us also remember the fundamental principle that binds all of us in government. The authority entrusted to us comes from the people, and therefore our positions must always be exercised with humility, accountability, and sincere commitment to their welfare. Being a public servant is not merely a job - a source of livelihood. Yes, we receive salaries for the work that we do, but beyond the salaries, [there is a] much greater responsibility,” he said.

He encouraged government offices to continuously improve their services by becoming more responsive, efficient, and attentive to the needs and concerns of the people.

“Let us make our processes more efficient. Let us listen more carefully to the concerns of our people. Let us serve with greater patience, integrity, and compassion. And most importantly, let us remember that public service is ultimately about people,” he said.

Edduba likewise thanked national government agencies, local government units, government financial institutions, professional organizations, media partners, and other institutions for their continued partnership in serving Kalinga.

PLGU offices, LGUs recognized for service

The Araw ng Parangal also recognized this year’s Parangal sa Lingkod Bayani awardees and various government offices for their dedication and contributions to public service.

Among the recognized provincial offices were the Office of the Provincial Governor, Office of the Provincial Administrator, Office of the Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Provincial Budget Office, Provincial Treasurer’s Office, Provincial Accountant’s Office, Provincial Assessor’s Office, Provincial Legal Office, Provincial Health Office, and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, among others.

The province’s health facilities were also represented, including the Kalinga Provincial Hospital, Kalinga District Hospital, Western Kalinga District Hospital, Pinukpuk District Hospital, Juan M. Duyan Memorial District Hospital, Kalinga Gabriela Mija Kim Medical Center, and Tanudan Municipal Hospital.

Also recognized were the Bureau of Internal Revenue-Kalinga, 126th PCSA Organizing Committee, Office of the Congressional District of Kalinga, and the local government units of Balbalan, Lubuagan, Pasil, Pinukpuk, Rizal, Tabuk City, Tanudan, and Tinglayan.

The celebration also brought Kalinga culture into the spotlight as civil servants proudly graced the runway in traditional Kalinga attire, showcasing the province’s cultural identity alongside their commitment to public service.

Edduba concluded by urging public servants to continue improving their work and earning the trust of the people through meaningful and dedicated service.

“...let us continue to serve with purpose, to improve, to earn the trust that our people have placed in us. And let us make every involvement an opportunity to demonstrate that public service is indeed a privilege, a solemn duty, and a responsibility,” he said.