Pacoy Sworn In as LU Governor

 Francisco Emmanuel “Pacoy” R. Ortega III was sworn in as Governor of La Union by Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Samuel R. Martires on June 30, 2016 at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Convention Hall, City of San Fernando, La Union.

            In his Inaugural Speech, he paid tribute to those who contributed to the success of his gubernatorial bid.  He expressed his gratitude to his father, Manuel C. Ortega whom he succeeded and described as his mentor.  He thanked Governor Manoling for uniting all local leaders of the province in sustaining peace and order for a more progressive La Union and for setting the groundwork in the province which will allow his successor to espouse more development programs. 

Pacoy also commended the teachers, police, volunteers, and employees of various agencies especially the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), for pooling their efforts for peaceful and orderly elections.  He alsorecognized his family’s support especially his wife, Cong. Vini Nola A. Ortega, who succeeded him as ABONO Party-list Representative as well as his supporters and allies.

            Prior to the Inauguration Program, a Thanksgiving Mass was officiated by Bishop Rodolfo F. Beltran together with priests from the Diocese of San Fernando de La Union. 

Justice Martires also administered the Oaths of Office of ABONO Party-list Representative Ortega; La Union 1^st District Representative Pablo C. Ortega; La Union 2^nd District Representative Sandra Y. Eriguel; Vice Gov. Aureo Augusto Q, Nisce; and Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members.  Governor Pacoy himself administered the Oaths of Office of Mayors, Vice Mayors and Sangguniang Panglungsod and Sangguniang Bayan Members.

            Also present were Department of the Interior and Local Government-Region I Director Julie J. Daquioag; members of the Governor’s Cabinet led by the Provincial Administrator, Dr. Geoffrey S. Tilan; officials from the La Union Police Provincial Office led by PSSUPT Angelito D. Dumangeng; local media; and friends and relatives of elected and re-elected officials of the province.   (Israel O. Rudio - PITO-La Union)