16 October, 2025 (Bauag, La Union) – The Local Amnesty Boards (LAB) of La Union and Baguio successfully held an oath-taking ceremony and stakeholders’ meeting at Hotel Ariana in Bauang, La Union.

The event united key leaders and stakeholders from various sectors, emphasizing their shared commitment to peace, order, and community engagement. LAB La Union Chairman Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of the oath-taking ceremony. He stated, “To the newly designated Local Amnesty Board Members of La Union and Baguio, our oath today is more than a formality. When we raise our hands and pledge, we are accepting the responsibility to steward lives, to ensure that amnesty does not become a hollow promise but a real avenue for reintegration, justice, and safety for families and communities.” He added, “Amnesty should be accompanied by institutions that are fair, transparent, and accountable.”

Distinguished attendees included LAB Baguio members PBGen. Ericson Diaz Dilag, PCol. Eric Tagle, Atty. Benedict Pataras, and Mr. Benjamin Macadangdang. Also present were DILG’s Assistant Regional Director Ruperto Maribbay, LGOO V Allan F. Ocal, Deputy Regional Director Alfred Calicdan, Atty. Albie Juarez, and Mr. Harold Collado from NICA CAR. LAB La Union was represented by Chairperson Mayor Hermenegildo A. Gualberto, Provincial Director Redentor Ulsano, Atty. Ronella Balbin-Concepcion, Atty. Alexander M. Andres, Col. Davice Christopher G. Mercado, and NICA Regional Director Plormelinda P. Olet.

The ceremony featured the oath-taking of new members, reinforcing their dedication to integrity, service, and civic responsibility. Stakeholders engaged in constructive dialogue, addressing regional challenges and fostering cooperation for future initiatives. LAB La Union and LAB Baguio express gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for contributing to the event’s success, reaffirming their commitment to building bridges between government and civil society for a safer and more inclusive future.

#BagongBuhaySaMapayapangBagongPilipinas