The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Jagna has implemented a substantial wage increase for its employees starting 2025, while simultaneously expanding its range of free services to residents, marking a significant milestone in the municipality’s commitment to both employee and community welfare. Under the leadership of Mayor Joseph A. Rañola (front row, seated, left), the daily wage for Job Order employees has seen a remarkable 50% increase, rising from PHP 300 to PHP 450. This adjustment will benefit 273 job order workers, significantly improving their living standards. The wage increase extends beyond job order employees, with 108 regular/permanent employees and elected officials also receiving salary adjustments. The increases vary according to position levels: 60 employees received a PHP 1,000 monthly increase; 10 employees received a PHP 2,000 monthly increase; 9 employees received a PHP 3,000 monthly increase; 5 employees received a PHP 4,000 monthly increase; 13 employees received increases ranging from PHP 5,000 to 7,000; 10 employees received increases between PHP 8,000 to 9,000; 1 employee received an PHP 11,000 increase. In Addition to significant wage increases, the LGU has managed to expand its range of free services to the community. Residents now benefit from: Healthcare and Emergency Services: Free ambulance services; Free medicines; Free transportation services; Agricultural Support: Free use of the State of the Art Rice processing Facility with Dryer and Rice Mill (Free Pick Up and Delivery of rice); Free use of heavy equipment; Free gasoline for farmers and fisherfolk Distribution of free rice seeds; Provision of organic fertilizers; Free vegetable seeds; Community Support Programs: Unlimited Municipal Social Welfare Fund (local AICS), Financial assistance to senior citizens for their “Painitan” program with free rental, Support for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) through financial assistance for their Pasalubong Center, including free rental. This comprehensive approach to community development has been made possible through prudent financial management and cost-saving measures. The administration has significantly reduced expenses in various areas, including: Limiting unnecessary travel and training expenses, Reducing meal allowances from PHP 300 to PHP 100-150 per meal, Achieving 50% savings in medicine expenses compared to the previous administration, Optimizing spending on office supplies, construction, and plumbing materials. These fiscal reforms, coupled with Jagna’s elevation to a second-class municipality status with an annual budget of PHP 240 million for 2025 (upgraded from third-class), have enabled both the wage increases and expansion of community services. The successful implementation of these programs is attributed to the distinctive leadership style of Mayor Rañola, working in partnership with Vice Mayor Teofisto Pagar Jr (front row, seated, right). Their collaborative efforts have resulted in meaningful improvements in the lives of both public servants and the broader community. This development represents a significant achievement for the municipality of Jagna, demonstrating how effective leadership and fiscal responsibility can translate into tangible benefits for both government workers and residents alike. Contributed photo