MAYOR Nelson Legacion delivered his final State of the City Report on Tuesday, March 25, before a jam-packed audience at the City Hall grounds, highlighting the rewards of good governance during his six-year tenure.
As he bids farewell to the mayoralty to pursue a congressional seat in Camarines Sur’s 3rd District, Legacion reflected on the city’s remarkable progress and the legacy of his administration.
Throughout his 56-minute speech, which was interrupted by 43 rounds of applause, Legacion emphasized the city’s strides in various sectors. He underscored Naga’s transformation into a highly progressive city, attributing its success to collaborative efforts with government agencies, local officials, and the community.
One of Legacion’s proudest achievements was Naga’s Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) 2024 and its recognition as the Top 1 Most Competitive Component City in the Philippines for 2024. The city also passed the Good Financial Housekeeping standards and was reclassified from a 2nd Class to a 1st Class City, further solidifying its economic strength.
Naga also earned the Citizen-Led Policy Award at the Digital Democracy Awards 2024, a testament to its commitment to inclusive governance. The city received a total of 96 awards during Legacion’s two terms in office.
In the health sector, Legacion celebrated the construction of the Naga City General Hospital (NCGH), which has been operational since December 2024. He also lauded the establishment of the Haemodialysis Unit at NCGH, equipped with 12 stations, under the leadership of Dr. Joseph Sanchez, the hospital chief, and City Councilor Dr. Sonny Rañola, who chairs the Local Health Board.
Other notable health achievements included the city’s low adolescent birth rate and the Naga City Population and Nutrition Office (NCPNO)’s outstanding performance. The office achieved an impressive 104% satisfaction rating in modern family planning services, earning praise from Legacion and another wave of applause.
On education, Legacion cited the city’s successful programs in partnership with the Department of Education, particularly those that led to Naga receiving the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance.
He also highlighted the preservation of the historic Gabaldon building at Camarines Sur National High School and the city’s compliance certification from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).
Under his administration, Naga saw the construction of four-lane bypass roads and the Naga City Public Safety Complex to enhance disaster preparedness. The city also undertook major projects such as the Plaza Quezon redevelopment and the launching of a coffee table book showcasing Naga’s history and progress.
In the economic sector, Naga consistently ranked as the most competitive component city and gained significant engagement on social media, with its official Facebook page playing a key role in its competitiveness ranking. The City Agriculture Office, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, was also recognized for its contributions to food security and sustainability.
As he concluded his speech, Legacion expressed gratitude to all department heads and city government employees, stressing the importance of putting the right people in the right positions. He also thanked the Sangguniang Panlungsod for its support.
“If we are one and united, the impossible becomes possible,” Legacion declared, receiving another resounding applause.
He acknowledged outgoing Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr. for his contributions to the 3rd District, vowing to build on his accomplishments. Bordado, in turn, is vying for the vice mayoralty in the 2025 elections under the Liberal Party’s Team Naga, led by former Vice President Leni Robredo, who is running for city mayor.
Legacion ended his speech with a call for continuity in leadership. “Let’s continue to fulfill the leadership that is dependable, reliable, and caring.” His final words were met with three more rounds of applause, sealing his legacy as he embarks on his next political endeavour.
Written by Jason Neola (CEPPIO)
