Vice-Gov. Odiem underscores principle of accountability during launch of month-long 125th PCSA celebration

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Vice-Governor Dave Q. Odiem emphasized the principle of accountability in public service while delivering a message to the government officials and employees during the launching program of the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary on September 1, 2025.

In his address to the government workers, Odiem reiterated that public office is a public trust, reminding officials that they must always be held accountable to the people.

The Vice-Governor also stressed that, in light of recent issues regarding corruption and anomalies involving high government officials and contractors, there is a need to serve with integrity.

“... (with) the uproar created by the perceived massive corruption committed by high government officials and contractors of public infrastructure, perhaps it is timely to remind us, fellow public servants, of the mandate of Section 1, Article 11 of the 1987 Constitution, and I quote: ‘Public office is a public trust. Public officers and employees must at all times be accountable to the people, serve them with utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency, act with patriotism and justice, and lead modest lives,” Odiem said.

The Vice-Governor pointed out that accountability remains urgent, especially now that public officials are being criticized for corruption issues.

The Launching program of the PCSA was hosted by the City of Tabuk, attended by the Vice Governor Dave Q. Odiem, Provincial Administrator Teddy Gullay, Board Member Emillio Kitongan, Board Member Glenn Amla, Board Member Alfredo Dangani; among others. Also present were the municipal mayors from the different municipalities of Kalinga.

Among the key highlights of the launching program were the presentation of the Kalinga Convergence for Community Resilience, Empowerment, Sustainability, and Transformation (KCREST), the presentation of the Guhit Kalinga: Rotunda Design Contest, the Prime HRM Awarding Ceremony, and the awarding of plaques of appreciation, among others.

The 125th PCSA celebration in the province will be a month-long celebration that will feature various activities to be conducted within the province.