BALANGA CITY, BATAAN – The Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) Central and Regional Directors, officials, and employees, participated in a learning visit at “The Bunker” at the Capitol Compound, Balanga City, last 27 April 2022.  

Executive Director Niño Raymond Alvina, in his message during the courtesy call with Governor Albert S. Garcia, commended the excellent achievements and best practices in local fiscal governance of the Province of Bataan.   

“I commend the leadership of Governor Garcia and the department heads of the Provincial Government of Bataan, through our Provincial Treasurer Alicia R. Magpantay and other personnel from the treasurer’s office, in achieving and showcasing best practices in local fiscal and government administration during the Covid-19 pandemic. Evidently, the Province of Bataan was awarded with the Most Business-Friendly Province by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) for the second time in 2021, together with other LGUs that have been successful in restoring and increasing business operations in their area through significant and sustained innovative actions amidst the Covid-19”, Executive Director Alvina said  

The Province of Bataan is recognized for its outstanding Covid-19 efforts: the setting up of twenty-nine (29) vaccination sites and mobilization of the Vax on Wheels which brings vaccine closer to the people who have no means to access vaccination site for reasons of sickness, distance, or work schedule.  

The said LGU also secured the Seal of Good Local Governance for four (4) consecutive years, confirming the Province of Bataan’s commitment to elevate the quality of life of Bataeños and restore trust in doing business through sustainable efforts and initiatives in investments, infrastructure, and the digital economy.  

He also added that the visit is an insightful learning opportunity for BLGF officials and employees to appreciate Bataan’s journey towards an excellent model LGU worthy of emulation.   

Governor Garcia informed the BLGF officials that “The Bunker” is a replica of an armored tank designed by Architect Henry Mayuga to commemorate the patriotism of World War II veteran heroes. It serves as the Bataan Government Center and Business Hub, a one-stop shop aimed to promote ease of doing business in the LGU. The construction of the said facility is part of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and was inaugurated on 12 September 2019 by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.