Officials and employees of the Municipality of Loon gathered this morning at the Loon Center Ground for the Regular Flag-Raising Ceremony No. FR-11-2026, reaffirming the Municipality’s shared commitment to disciplined governance, responsive public service, and community-centered development. The ceremony was led by Mayor Pedro M. Literatus, Jr. and Vice Mayor Jorge J. Marapao, Jr., together with members of the 16th Sangguniang Bayan.
Joining the assembly were municipal department heads, LGU employees, and representatives from partner National Government Agencies including the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Bureau of Fire Protection – Loon, and the Philippine National Police – Loon. The ceremony was hosted by the Office of the Loon Waterworks System under the leadership of Head Engineer Erwin Requina, highlighting the essential role of water services in sustaining the health and daily needs of the community.
In his opening message, Mayor Literatus warmly greeted the gathering with “Good morning, everyone,” expressing gratitude to all officials and employees present. He acknowledged the presence of members of the 16th Sangguniang Bayan, particularly Hon. Rain Merquita and the Sangguniang Bayan staff, as well as the Municipal Administrator, department heads, and representatives from national agencies. The Mayor emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation within the LGU, stating that collective effort remains the foundation of effective governance for the Municipality of Loon.
One of the primary announcements during the ceremony involved adjustments to the LGU work schedule in observance of Eid al-Fitr, which has been declared a regular holiday nationwide through Proclamation No. 1189. In compliance with this declaration, the LGU will temporarily adopt an adjusted work schedule from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM beginning March 16 until March 19. Essential offices responsible for public safety and frontline services will continue to operate without interruption to ensure that public assistance remains readily accessible to Loonanons.
Mayor Literatus clarified that LGU-funded Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) personnel assigned to public schools and the two Rural Health Units will maintain their respective operational schedules in coordination with school administrators and RHU management. The Mayor further announced that beginning March 23, the LGU will revert to the 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM compressed work-week schedule, unless another directive is issued by the local government.
Another highlight of the Mayor’s report was the successful conduct of the Pantawid Civil Mass Wedding, where twenty couples officially tied the knot through a program facilitated by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office headed by Ms. Ma. Marnelli L. Maquindang. The initiative provided couples with the opportunity to formalize their unions while strengthening family values within the community—an effort that reflects the LGU’s continued advocacy for inclusive social welfare programs.
The Mayor also shared updates regarding the recent visit of representatives from Wanju-gun, Jeonbuk Province, Republic of Korea who came to Loon to discuss an agricultural partnership with the municipality. Following discussions and with the approval of the 16th Sangguniang Bayan, the LGU is moving forward with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a Seasonal Worker Program. Through this collaboration, residents of Loon may have the opportunity to work temporarily on farms in South Korea, expanding livelihood opportunities for local families.
Mayor Literatus explained that selected workers will undergo proper departure orientation and registration with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to ensure their protection, welfare benefits, and compliance with labor regulations—similar to the safeguards provided to overseas Filipino workers. Interested applicants were advised to coordinate with the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), headed by Ms. Maricris Maestrado, or with Mr. Melquiades E. Maestrado for further details.
The Mayor also took the opportunity to commend the successful culmination of the Municipality’s National Women’s Month Celebration, which took place the previous day. The celebration highlighted the theme “Gender Equality and Inclusive Society: Women’s Empowerment,” recognizing the vital contributions of women in shaping the social, economic, and cultural landscape of the community. Various activities were conducted, including poetry (balak), painting competitions, and socio-cultural performances such as the socio-dance contest. Mayor Literatus congratulated all participants and winners, acknowledging the women of Loon for their leadership and resilience. “Ang papel sa kababayen-an sa atong komunidad dako kaayo ug bililhon,” he remarked, emphasizing their invaluable role in local development.
A major development in the Municipality’s healthcare services was also highlighted during the ceremony. Last week, the LGU of Loon participated in the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Health and selected local government units across the province. Out of all municipalities in Bohol, only fourteen mayors were invited to participate, and Loon was among those recognized.
This partnership allows the deployment of a physician under the Doctors to the Barrios Program (DTTB), an initiative that strengthens healthcare access in underserved communities. Mayor Literatus proudly introduced the municipality’s newly assigned Rural Health Physician, Dr. Joseph S. Elarde from Iloilo, who will serve as augmentation personnel for the Municipal Health Office.
The Mayor warmly welcomed Dr. Elarde to Loon, assuring him of the community’s support and appreciation. “Rest assured that you will be well-loved and supported by the people of this municipality,” he said. During a recent meeting in Tagbilaran City with DOH officials, discussions were also made regarding the possibility of deploying a second DTTB physician to help serve both Rural Health Unit 1 and Rural Health Unit 2 in the future.
As the ceremony concluded, the Mayor reiterated the importance of continued cooperation among LGU offices, national agencies, and the wider community. Through strengthened partnerships, responsive governance, and sustained dedication to service, the Municipality of Loon continues to pursue programs that uplift the welfare of every Loonanon.
“Daghang salamat ug maayong buntag sa atong tanan,” the Mayor concluded—reminding everyone that progress is achieved through unity, commitment, and collective responsibility.
As the flag was raised and commitments renewed, FR-11-2026 served as another testament to the Municipality’s vision of progress—ensuring that #LoonMadanihon will continue to rise and shine, from Local to Global.