GOVERNOR Ramon Guico III refuted claims that he is concentrating his efforts solely on Urdaneta City, saying he has actively been traveling throughout the province to engage with residents and address their needs.

“I focus on every part of the province, but of course, I have a connection to the fifth district,” Guico, a resident of Binalonan, told local newsmen last week during the Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Sapat Para Sa Lahat’ event celebrating President Marcos’ birthday.

Guico acknowledged Urdaneta’s significance as a key city in the eastern part of the province, describing it as “a very rich city that, if managed well, could greatly benefit the entire province.”

However, he belied opinions that provincial funds are disproportionately being allocated to Urdaneta while he and his wife — who is reportedly eyeing the mayoralty seat in the city in the 2025 elections — visit various barangays.

“That is not the case. Many of the programs I am implementing (in Urdaneta) are personally funded,” Guico clarified.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve health coverage, pointing out that over 30% of Urdaneta residents still lack health insurance despite the Universal Health Care program.

“We are collaborating with PhilHealth, the Department of Health, the Provincial Health Office, and the district hospital to address this issue and enhance the program,” Guico said.

While he confirmed that he does spend time in Urdaneta, Guico assured that his responsibilities extend across the province, including recent visits to Bautista, Bolinao, and other districts.

“So, I’m active throughout the province. It seems that Urdaneta is the only place people want to emphasize,” he concluded. (Eva Visperas)

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