BATANGAS CITY — Governor Vilma Santos-Recto reported the accomplishments of her administration during the first 100 days in office through a public presentation titled “Gov. Vi Special Report: The First 100 Days,” held recently in Batangas City.
Carrying the theme “Matatag na Batangas: Ang Bagong Simula,” the report highlighted the provincial government’s efforts to provide better services, strengthen transparency, and promote people-centered governance.
“This is not just about returning to office,” Gov. Vi said. “It’s about bringing back a kind of leadership that listens, acts, and truly serves the people.”
In her first weeks in office, Governor Santos-Recto issued four executive orders focusing on health, education, disaster preparedness, and peace and order.
Under Executive Order No. 1, Matatag na Kalusugan, the province started improving 13 provincial hospitals, upgrading medical equipment, and hiring more doctors and nurses. The
Batangas Provincial Medical Center in Tuy was inaugurated, along with the installation of 100 free dialysis machines to help patients in need.
Executive Order No. 2, Task Force: Matatag na Iskolar at Edukasyon, expanded scholarship programs and improved school facilities. Over ₱1.1 billion was allocated for education—building 17 new schools, repairing 844 classrooms, and distributing laptops, smart TVs, and interactive boards to public schools.
As one of the authors of the Free College Education Law (RA 10931) during her time in Congress, the Governor said education remains close to her heart.
“Every Batangueño child deserves a chance to study and build a better future,” she said. Meanwhile, EO No. 3, Task Force: Matatag at Ligtas na Batangas, strengthened disaster preparedness and community response systems in light of frequent natural calamities and Taal Volcano activity.
Lastly, EO No. 4, Task Force: Matatag na Pagbabantay, focused on improving public safety through better coordination among law enforcement units and local governments.
To make public service more accessible, the Governor launched the “Capitol on Wheels” program, which brings various government services directly to barangays and remote communities. The initiative aims to reduce the burden of travel and make assistance programs more efficient.
“Government funds should return to the people,” Gov. Vi stressed. “We owe it to them to make sure every peso works for their welfare.”
The Governor also emphasized teamwork and collaboration among local officials. A Strategic Planning Session between the executive and legislative branches was held to align development priorities and ensure all programs are practical and achievable.
“Our progress is a shared effort,” she said. “Every accomplishment is the result of dedication and unity among all who serve the province.”
Governor Santos-Recto said that the first 100 days are only the beginning of a long-term vision for a stronger and more progressive Batangas.
Among the upcoming programs are the “Matatag na Batangas Award”, a provincial version of the Seal of Good Local Governance, and the return of the “Ala Eh! Festival,” which will once again showcase the province’s culture, tourism, and creativity.
The Governor ended her report with a message of hope and determination. “The first 100 days mark a new beginning for Batangas,” she said. “With faith, teamwork, and good governance, we will build a province that is truly matatag, maunlad, at makatao.”
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