“Public service is not privilege for the few, but responsibility for all” — VG Odiem to Kalinga gov’t workers

Vice governor Odiem highlights unity, integrity and excellence during GANDAng HR convergence

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — Public service is not a privilege reserved for those holding government positions but a shared responsibility among everyone committed to serving the people, Vice Governor Atty. Dave Q. Odiem said during the formal opening of the GANDAng HR: The Kalinga Public Service Convergence on September 3.

The activity marked Kalinga’s celebration of the 126th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) and gathered employees from local government units, national government agencies, uniformed services and government financial institutions.

In his message, Odiem said the month-long convergence aims to bring government workers together through activities promoting public service, wellness, volunteerism and community engagement.

“This convergence is our province’s answer to the national theme, ‘Bawat Kawani, Lingkod Bayani: Puso, Dangal, at Galing Para sa Bayan.’ It reminds us that public service is not a privilege for the few, but it is a responsibility for all. And when we serve together, with unity and shared purpose, we make Kalinga Lumin-awa,” Odiem said.

‘We stand as one’

Odiem said the participation of employees from various offices demonstrates the unity of Kalinga’s public service community.

He noted that although government workers operate under different mandates and perform different functions, they share one responsibility—to serve the people of Kalinga.

“To our colleagues from the various Local Government Units, National Government Agencies, Uniformed Personnel, and Government Financial Institutions, your presence here today reflects the unity that defines Kalinga’s public service community. We may serve under different mandates and different offices, but this morning, we stand as one, bound by our shared commitment to serve the people of Kalinga with puso, dangal, at galing,” he said.

According to Odiem, collaboration among agencies is essential because government service extends beyond the walls of individual offices. Working together allows agencies to respond more effectively to the needs of the public.

‘Every day is an opportunity to make a difference’

Odiem reminded government employees that their responsibility to the public goes beyond Civil Service Month activities.

He said every day they report for work provides an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people they serve.

“As we formally open this month-long convergence, let us carry its spirit in everything we do—in our offices, in our communities, and in our hearts,” he said.

Odiem urged government workers to serve with “puso,” or genuine care for the people; “dangal,” or integrity and accountability; and “galing,” or the competence and professionalism expected by their constituents.

Service beyond the office

The vice governor also recognized the Provincial Human Resource Management Office (PHRMO), headed by Provincial Human Resource Officer Grace Kidang-Flores, as well as municipal HRMOs, HRMAs, departments, offices and committees involved in organizing the celebration.

He acknowledged that their behind-the-scenes efforts may not always be visible, but remain essential to the success of the activities.

Odiem also highlighted the GANDAng HR Project PAG-ASA, a collective initiative providing support to personnel of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

He said the project demonstrates that public service can extend beyond government offices through concrete efforts to help and uplift others.

Meanwhile, the opening of the 2026 Governor’s Cup provided another avenue for government employees to strengthen teamwork and camaraderie.

Odiem said friendly competition can build stronger relationships among employees and remind them that challenges are easier to overcome when people work together.

As Kalinga begins its month-long Civil Service Anniversary celebration, Odiem called on government workers to bring the values of puso, dangal and galing into their daily duties.

For the vice governor, the celebration is not simply about honoring government employees—it is a reminder that serving the people is a responsibility shared by everyone, regardless of office or position.