Harnessing the Power of Vision and Voice

For Cagayan Vice Governor Melvin “Boy” Vargas, politics has long been a calling. While his lineage is steeped in public service—with his father, grandfather, and various relatives having held political positions— Vargas insists that his drive to serve stems from a deeper, personal desire. From a young age, he felt a profound urge to be a voice and leader for the people of Cagayan, a passion rooted in his heart and not just his heritage. He admits that his relatives have set a foundation for the political playground, but Vargas asserts that public service has simply been his dream. “I can say that they have an influence, but it’s not as big as what people would think [because both my father and grandfather were politicians]. This is my passion and my dream,” Vargas says.

His father, former Cagayan Governor Melvin Vargas Sr., became vice governor at age 34, making him the youngest individual to hold the position in Cagayan’s history. Subsequently, his father became acting governor when the incumbent governor at that time was suspended. This meant that representatives from different national agencies would drop by their home and the young Vargas would entertain his father’s guests and constituents. He’d serve refreshments, build small rapport with the guests, and be present to help his father in any small way he could. “Even when I was younger, when I was in elementary [school], people would always ask me, ‘what do you want to be when you grow up?,’and I would always say that it is my dream to become a public servant. Masaya po ako sa ginagawa ko (I’m happy with what I’m doing),” Vargas adds.

GOING BACK TO HIS ROOTS

In his 18 years of local politics in Cagayan, Vargas has put emphasis on tradition, transparency, and presence in serving his constituents effectively. Unlike national politics, local governance allows him to connect closely with the people and understand their needs and desires. Though he only began his political career at 25, Vargas credits his diverse experiences and past failures outside politics with shaping his leadership perspective. He studied Consular and Diplomatic Affairs at the De La Salle College of Saint Benilde in Manila, then took up his masters and doctorate degrees at St. Paul University in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. Unlike his political opponents who grew up in Cagayan, Vargas spent much of his life in Manila, working in the private sector before entering politics. He worked as a call center agent in Libis, Quezon City as well before migrating back to the province.

When he decided to run for public office in Cagayan, the then-aspiring public servant faced seasoned mayors and politicians who were well-versed in provincial politics. His limited proficiency in Ilocano and Ybanag posed a significant challenge, positioning him as an underdog against his more experienced opponents.

“In local tradition, not speaking the language puts you at a disadvantage. In a way, [the people] criticize you for that, so in preparation for the elections, I immersed myself in Ilocano newspapers and listened to programs like Bombo Radyo. I had to learn the various languages spoken in Cagayan Province to connect with the people, both personally and politically,” Vargas shares. In 2007, he ran for a sangguniang panlalawigan (provincial board) seat, competing against 11 other candidates for one of three seats. With steadfast support from the people, he secured the top spot. This proved to be no fluke, as he replicated this feat for two more consecutive terms until 2016. After this, he set his sights on higher office.

LOVE KNOWS NO DISTANCE             

Just as his career as a public servant has been rolling smoothly, Vargas’ personal life has also been rosy. Despite the demanding nature of their political careers, his year-long relationship with LTFRB Spokesperson Pircelyn “Celine” B. Pialago has been going strong; a testament to the resilience of love. Their story showcases how love can flourish even amidst the challenges public servants serving in different fields of governance face.

The couple's journey began in October 2019, when Vargas received a call from then-Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile. Tasked with assisting a close friend of Enrile's in a congressional campaign, Vargas traveled from his home in Cagayan to Manila to heed the request. This fateful meeting would set the stage for a significant chapter in Vargas's life, both professionally and personally.

During this pivotal meeting, vVargas was introduced to Pialago, who was then serving as

the spokesperson for the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Before this introduction, Vargas had never encountered Pialago. The meeting proceeded without further interaction between them, as both were involved in separate relationships then. It wasn't until 2023 that their paths crossed again, setting the stage for the relationship they share today.

“I met up with a mutual friend in Makati for a meeting. The first words that came into my mind was ‘Kamusta na si Celine? (How is Celine doing?)’. My friend then said that If I had more time in Manila, he could set up a meeting with her to catch up,” Vargas recalls.

Vargas and Pialago reconnected at a café in Bonifacio Global City, and their bond quickly deepened. By this time, both were single and unencumbered by past relationships. Reflecting on their serendipitous reunion, Vargas remarks, "It was like magic. It happened in the right place and at the right time." Reflecting on their relationship, Vargas and Pialago highlight a dynamic balance of shared interests and complementary differences. Both are deeply engaged in politics, governance, and business, creating a strong foundation for their partnership. Despite a 10-year age gap, they have learned to navigate their distinct personalities and demanding schedules. Vargas, accustomed to provincial life, found his worldview broadened by Pialago, a lifelong Metro Manila resident. In turn, Pialago gained a sense of maturity and perspective from Vargas's influence. Their contrasting lifestyles have enriched their partnership, allowing them to grow both individually and as a couple. “We are compatible. Sabihin natin ‘Oh, she’s beautiful!’ pero kung hindi naman kayo compatible at wala kayong puwedeng mapagkuwentuhan or hindi kayo makarelate sa isa’t isa, magiging disadvantage ‘yon, (Even if someone says, ‘Oh, she's beautiful!’ compatibility and engaging conversation are essential. Without these, the relationship can suffer from a lack of connection and shared interests)", he stresses.

Initially, Pialago was reluctant to date anyone involved in politics, wary of the stereotype that men in power tend to be domineering. However, she found Vargas to be different. They navigate their differences by addressing issues directly and embracing constructive criticism, fostering a healthy and respectful relationship. “He really values my input and he always considers my opinion,” Pialago says. “It felt too good to be true because in the first six months of our relationship, we barely fought. At one point, I asked him ‘Are we a normal couple?’, but he reassured me that, eventually, we’re going to fight about things but we’ll deal with them together.” Their story is nothing but a whirlwind romance. After reconnecting in Manila, they officially became a couple just a week later, on Vargas's birthday in June. Vargas celebrated with his constituents in Cagayan, and Pialago surprised him by traveling from Manila for the occasion. "She told me she couldn't make it because of her busy schedule, but she surprised me on the day," Vargas recalls. "She planned the whole party, reserved a space in a bar in Tuguegarao, invited my family and close friends, and came all the way from Manila to celebrate with me. There were fireworks, a live band, and she even serenaded me on stage. It was unforgettable."

At the end of the day, both Vargas and Pialago work side-by-side to make their relationship work, all the while flourishing in their own separate careers. "We're flexible. It's not about gender, age, or who holds more authority. Our past experiences have made us stronger individuals, and we apply those lessons to our careers and our relationship. My home is a 10-hour drive from Manila, where Celine works, but through trust and maturity, we find ways for our relationship to thrive," Vargas explains.

VARGAS BELIEVES CAGAYAN PROVINCE HOLDS IMMENSE POTENTIAL FOR IMPROVEMENT. HIS VISION EXTENDS FAR BEYOND COMMON PERCEPTIONS OF THE NORTHERN PROVINCE. HE ENVISIONS CAGAYAN AS A PREMIER TOURISM DESTINATION IN THE NORTH AND A CENTER OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE IN NORTHERN LUZON. 

A CRADLE FOR EXCELLENCE 

For the remainder of his term, Vargas aims to prominently highlight and improve several matters, particularly the quality of education in Cagayan. There are a number of leading ISO-certified institutions for higher education in the province, namely St. Paul University, Cagayan State University, and University of Saint Louis in Tuguegarao City. Vargas notes that these institutions are top-performing schools whose graduates have consistently placed high in national board examinations for teaching, accountancy, engineering, and criminology. Aside from producing top graduates, the education sector in Cagayan has also gained international attention, attracting enrolees from abroad, particularly from China.

The increasing number of Chinese students in the province has drawn criticism, largely due to the ongoing West Philippine Sea dispute with China.

Rumors have circulated that these foreign students might be covert spies, entering Philippine colleges due to the presence of two Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in the province. Located in Santa Ana and Lal-lo Airport, these sites are part of the United States' recent moves to increase military presence in the region. Vargas believes that criticisms should focus solely on the quality of education that Cagayan provides, addressing any shortcomings, rather than associating foreign enrolees with the geopolitical conflict. “It would be unfair to link the educational sector of Cagayan to the allegations and ongoing conflicts because I know how good the Cagayano students are. The students are performing very well and the province is open to all, regardless of race, background, or nationality. If they want to study in Cagayan for whatever reason because it’s cheaper or because the school is good, we open our doors to them.” Vargas asserts.

As the presiding officer of the sangguniang panlalawigan, Vargas filed a resolution to express support for the EDCA programs in the province and took the lead on related projects. The projects are aimed at producing better opportunities for business expansion and creating jobs for locals, especially fresh graduates.

“I pride myself on being a transparent leader and have no issues with foreigners coming into the province. In fact, they boost our economy, and we welcome development in Cagayan, both in education and business. Ultimately, it’s their choice to study here, and I believe they choose Cagayan because they trust in our educational system,” Vargas declares.

PUSHING FOR INNOVATION

The Province of Cagayan has been actively pursuing projects under its CAGANDA 2025 Agenda, which outlines the administration's vision for the province's future. This comprehensive plan includes 17 programs across various fields, including education, infrastructure, political bureaucracy, economic and cultural cooperation, and environmental initiatives.

One of the province’s flagship programs, “No Barangay Left Behind,” was put on hold due to the controversy surrounding a top provincial official’s disqualification in the 2022 elections. This program, which aims to provide financial assistance to all Cagayan residents at the grassroots level, had already disbursed nearly PhP3 million across the province's 820 villages and produced around 15,000 scholars. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) disqualified the official for violating the 45-day election ban on public fund use and excessive political maneuvering. This resulted in the delay of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM)’s approval of the 2023 budget, compromising the “No Barangay Left Behind” program.

In light of the controversy, Vargas expressed his opposition to the misuse of government funds. He asserts that any public servant accused of political maneuvering or misuse of public funds should face legal processes and defend themselves in proper forums. “No one is above the law. All public servants who truly want to help the people should learn from this example,” he asserts.

Amidst the controversies, Vargas has remained focused on his initiatives, confident they will benefit his constituents in the long run. A key focus is the environment, particularly crucial for Cagayan, which includes highly urbanized areas like Tuguegarao City. Under the CAGANDA 2025 Agenda, specifically Program No. 6, "Consolidated and Holistic Environmental Protection, Rehabilitation, and Conservation Approach For a Climate Change-Ready, Resilient, and Adaptive Province of Cagayan," Vargas led a tree planting activity in collaboration with the sangguniang panlalawigan. Vargas believes that while tree planting is a common project, even small initiatives can significantly impact environmental protection.

The project was also carried out in collaboration with One Movement, a Manila-based non-profit organization dedicated to promoting tree planting activities nationwide. Vargas recounts that the initiative was a resounding success, attracting numerous attendees from Manila to Cagayan for the event.

“It is not a unique program, but it is a very important project, considering that we are forgetting the true essence of the environment that we should protect. We should be against illegal logging, mining in the Cagayan River, and so forth,” he says. “We should protect the environment, not just for us, but for the generations of Cagayanos to come.”

Another priority is social projects. Vargas lobbied for livelihood programs targeting the grassroots, such as the Lingap Kaibigan, Angat Cagayan Caravan which provides free government services to Cagayanos. The program provides free medical, dental, and legal consultations, as well as opening up forums for discussion with different national government agencies like Pag-IBIG, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Social Security System. He also prioritizes his constituents who haven’t recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s our utmost priority to make programs of the national level reach different communities in the province. I’m proud to say that we’ve helped thousands of people in Cagayan province gain financial assistance and helped them get back up on steady feet following the pandemic,” he shares.

Vargas believes that Cagayan holds immense potential for improvement. His vision extends far beyod common perceptions of the province. He envisions Cagayan as a premier tourism destination in the north and a center of academic excellence in Northern Luzon.

This vision stems from his innate desire to highlight the province's strengths. Vargas asserts that if every public servant champions initiatives that emphasize Cagayan's strengths, this vision will become clearer and closer to reality.

“Cagayan is known as a rice granary; we’re very rich in agriculture. But we’re depending a lot on the programs organized by the Department of Agriculture. Our province is also rich in tourism spots, but people are willing to spend a lot of money to vacation elsewhere. It’s important to lobby for projects that maximize the strengths of the province,” he says. “We must not be traditional. We must be innovative. We must have a vision for the province and know how to use the strength of the province for all the people, not just a select few.”

WE MUST NOT BE TRADITIONAL. WE MUST BE INNOVATIVE. WE MUST HAVE A VISION FOR THE PROVINCE AND KNOW HOW TO USE THE STRENGTH OF THE PROVINCE FOR ALL THE PEOPLE, NOT JUST A SELECT FEW.

LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD SPOKESPERSON CELINE PIALAGO REFLECTS ON HER CAREER JOURNEY, FROM HER EARLY DAYS IN JOURNALISM TO HER FORAY INTO PAGEANTRY, WHICH ULTIMATELY PROPELLED HER INTO GOVERNMENT SERVICE. SHE REVEALS HOW SHE EXPERTLY SHAPES NARRATIVES, ENSURING THAT EVERY MESSAGE IS DELIVERED WITH PRECISION AND THE APPROPRIATE TONE.

 BY NEPHELINE LIM DACUNO

Making Every Message RESONATE

From appearing on television as a broadcast journalist to making use of different media to deliver clear messages about flagship government programs, LTFRB Spokesperson Celine Pialago has been a familiar voice bringing important messages to the fore.

YOUR CAREER HAS BEEN FASCINATING, SPANNING FROM BEING A BEAUTY QUEEN TO BECOMING A TELEVISION JOURNALIST, AND THEN TO GOVERNMENT SERVICE. WHAT MADE YOU SHIFT CAREERS?

Looking back at my preschool graduation yearbook, you’ll see that I listed becoming a broadcaster as my dream profession. From a young age, I aspired to be a broadcaster, inspired by my idol, Korina Sanchez. My mother was a significant influence on my decision to pursue broadcasting and journalism, having harbored similar ambitions when she was younger. Although my father hoped I would follow in his footsteps as an engineer, my mother strongly encouraged me to chase my passion for broadcasting.

 I took a leap of faith and secured my first journalism job at RPN 9, which evolved into Solar News and later CNN Philippines. From there, I transitioned to PTV 4 and trained with TV5. My formal training, however, came at ABS-CBN, where many of my idols worked. Immersed in media, production, and research, I relished every moment of it. It was during my time at PTV 4 that I was introduced to the world of pageantry. Many of my former colleagues pursued beauty pageants after their broadcasting careers, which sparked my curiosity. Despite my initial reluctance, largely due to weight gain during my tenure at PTV 4, the idea of participating in a pageant became more tangible when my director mentioned that my contract might not be renewed because of my changing appearance. Determined to keep my job, I vowed to lose weight but lacked the motivation until a coworker suggested I enter a beauty pageant.

 Initially, I hesitated, feeling I didn’t meet the conventional standards of a beauty queen. Nevertheless, I decided to give it a shot. I inquired about the Miss Philippines Earth competition, surprising the organizers with my inquiry. They asked, "Are you sure?" but I assured them I would be ready by application day. After dedicating three months to preparing and losing weight, I applied and competed in the 2014 Miss Philippines Earth pageant.

 Though I didn’t win the pageant, it opened doors in show business, leading me to various acting workshops. However, I soon realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. Fortunately, a former colleague from PTV 4 reached out, offering me a role as a media relations officer for then Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Manuel “Mar” A. Roxas III. Following his defeat, I remained with the DILG until my position was phased out with the new administration. Seizing the opportunity, I applied for and secured a role as assistant secretary at the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

HOW DID YOUR PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN BEAUTY PAGEANTS AND TV INFLUENCE THE WAY YOU FULFILL YOUR ROLES IN PUBLIC SERVICE, FROM BEING DILG MEDIA RELATIONS OFFICER TO MMDA SPOKESPERSON, NATIONAL TASK FORCE TO END LOCAL COMMUNIST ARMED CONFLICT (NTF-ELCAC) SPOKESPERSON, TO NOW LTFRB SPOKESPERSON?

One of the key skills I gained from my experience in journalism and media relations is effective communication with both reporters and the public. Firstly, many of the reporters I interact with are former colleagues and friends, which helps create a relaxed atmosphere, even when delivering challenging news. Secondly, having been in their position, I understand their mindset and motivations, allowing me to respond swiftly and effectively to their queries. This insight helps me anticipate their narrative preferences and adjust the message to benefit both the media and the agency I represent. Lastly, as a spokesperson, it is my duty to deliver clear and concise messages to the public, whether in English or Filipino, and regardless of whether the news is good or bad. My role is to ensure that messages are understood and serve the public’s best interests.

 WHICH ROLE HAS BEEN THE MOST CHALLENGING IN TERMS OF RELAYING MESSAGES TO THE PUBLIC, AND WHY?

While the LTFRB and MMDA are related, the MMDA’s seven mandates—ranging from traffic management to flood control and waste management—require me to stay on top of constantly shifting narratives. At the MMDA, I had to master various penalties, legalities, and procedures, making it crucial to manage and convey messages effectively. In contrast, the LTFRB focuses on transport, and my role as the NTF-ELCAC spokesperson was particularly challenging. Representing diverse sectors, including the youth, demanded careful navigation of current events and a balanced approach to avoid offending any parties  involved.

The LTFRB, as a regulatory body, operates differently from the enforcement-focused MMDA. While the MMDA handles immediate action and enforcement, the LTFRB falls under the Department of Transportation, dealing with board resolutions and joint administrative orders. This role can be challenging, as it requires us to navigate and adhere to policies handed down to the agency. Mediating between jeepney drivers and the agency is challenging, requiring significant effort to ensure that everyone understands the reasons behind policy enforcement and how these policies are intended to benefit them.

HOW HARD IS IT TO COMMUNICATE THE GOVERNMENT’S MESSAGE REGARDING THE PUBLIC UTILITY VEHICLE MODERNIZATION PROGRAM (PUVMP)?

The PUVMP is very controversial because we need to have a clear understanding of the plight of traditional jeepney drivers. Meanwhile, the people need to fully understand the ramifications and expected results of the program. The LTFRB’s regional offices are open to entertain jeepney drivers and operators’ questions in terms of financing, consolidation, and other matters, so that we could fully and smoothly implement the PUV modernization program. Of course, public transportation is meant to give safety and comfort to our commuters. But what about those operators and drivers who lack the f inancial capacity to buy the modern jeepney units? This is where clear and efficient messaging comes in. After all, this is for the betterment of everyone.

IN 2022, YOU WERE A NOMINEE OF THE MALASAKIT MOVEMENT PARTY LIST GROUP, WHICH VIED FOR CONGRESSIONAL SEATS. HOWEVER, YOUR CANDICACY HIT A SNAG. WHAT INSIGHTS DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS EXPERIENCE, AND ARE YOU AND YOUR GROUP CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS OBTAINING ACCREDITATION?

Although we were accredited, our group was disqualified and unable to fully compete in the 2022 elections. Despite this setback, the experience taught me  a valuable lesson: if you are truly committed to serving and helping people, you must persevere, regardless of whether you have an organization or a party list group supporting you. I'm the type of person who pursues a goal wholeheartedly when I truly want it. Had we been given a chance to present our platforms during the elections, I would have committed fully, driven by the purest intentions of serving the people. Even without strong connections or extensive support, knowing and believing in yourself can take you far. Never allow yourself to stray from who you truly are and what your genuine motives are.

 IS THERE A PARTICULAR ACHIEVEMENT IN YOUR CAREER IN GOVERNMENT SERVICE THAT STANDS OUT FOR YOU?

I'd say my strongest asset is my communication skills. Ultimately, my job is about delivering the right message to the public. I'm confident in my ability to speak effectively and relate to people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. At the end of the day, I always ask myself, "Did the people understand me? Did my message resonate?" My mentor once told me that I know I've delivered my message effectively if even a child can understand it. I believe I'm not yet a good communicator until a child can understand my message. I believe this skill has been instrumental in advancing my career at both the MMDA and LTFRB.