LU GOV. EARNS PRESTIGIOUS STEVIE AWARD; NAMED GLOBAL THOUGHT LEADER OF THE YEAR

August 31, 2024 Community Billboard

SAN FERNANDO, La Union

With over 12,000 entries on the different categories from across the globe, La Union Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega David was recognized as a Bronze Awardee in the internationally-acclaimed award giving body, the Stevie Awards. Gov. Rafy’s stellar accomplishments as a young local government leader stood out in the award category, Thought Leader of The Year Government or Non-profit. Gov. Rafy is one of the first local government leaders in the Philippines who garnered the award through her visionary leadership and impactful governance in La Union.

The International Business Awards, often referred to as the Stevie Awards, honor organizations and individuals all over the world for their extraordinary accomplishments in business and leadership. Gov. Rafy’s recognition in the Thought Leader of The Year category underscores her influential role in shaping policy and driving innovation within the government sector. “I am happy and thrilled to share with our kaprobinsiaan another remarkable milestone that we have achieved in our continuous commitment to selfless public service and good governance.

I would like to thank Stevie Awards for recognizing our efforts and initiatives. This inspires us to continue improve the delivery of our services and ensure the welfare of the constituents.” Gov. Rafy shared. Among her innovative accomplishments considered in the award was the passing of Executive Order No. 25, s.2022 which institutionalized the provision of two-day work-from-home privileges for women employees of the Provincial Government of

La Union (PGLU) each month. This policy has inspired other LGUs in the country, and some legislators in Congress have already filed similar bills. Gov. Rafy has also made history as the first Provincial local chief executive to have visited the most far-flung barangays of La Union, such as Brgy. Bayabas in San Gabriel and Brgy. Sapdaan in Santol consulting them with the most pressing issues they face. Gov. Rafy is also a sought-after resource speaker in leadership fora and workshops.

She has spoken alongside other inspirational leaders such as Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, and award-winning documentarist Howie Severino. She has also made speaking engagements in international conferences such as in Geneva, Switzerland and South Korea. As a thought leader, she also pioneered the conduct of the annual Paskuhang Bayan, where hundreds of indigent constituents in the province are directly gifted with noche buena items and other treats to defray expenses during the holiday seasons.

“The award serves as a testament of the significant strides La Union is achieving together toward progress and sustainable development.” Gov. Ortega-David added. The governor’s success is expected to further elevate La Union’s profile on the global stage, attracting positive attention and opportunities for the province. The Provincial Government of La Union extends its heartfelt congratulations to Gov. Rafy Ortega-David for this remarkable achievement and looks forward to continuing its path of excellence and innovation under her esteemed leadership.