The Municipality of Loon once again gathered in unity and public service during the conduct of the Regular Flag Raising Ceremony No. FR-21-2026 held at the Municipal Grounds, spearheaded by the Municipal Trial Court together with Mayor Cesar Tomas “Yul” M. Lopez, M.D., Vice Mayor Pedro M. Literatus, Jr., members of the 16th Sangguniang Bayan, Department and Office Heads, Municipal employees, and representatives from various National Government Agencies including the DILG, COMELEC, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Philippine National Police.
As the Philippine flag was raised with pride and patriotism, the ceremony reflected the Municipality’s continuing commitment to discipline, accountability, and excellence in public service—further strengthening the vision of a truly Madanihong Loon rising and shining from Local to Global.
In his message, Mayor Yul Lopez warmly greeted everyone with “Madanihong buntag natong tanan,” before presenting several important institutional updates, accomplishments, and directions of the Local Government Unit. One of the major highlights emphasized by the Mayor was the successful passing of the LGU’s ISO 9001:2015 First Surveillance Audit, a milestone which reaffirmed the Municipality’s commitment to quality management systems and internationally aligned governance standards.
Mayor Lopez proudly shared that the implementation of the Quality Management System (QMS) and ISO standards has significantly contributed in streamlining operations within the LGU. According to the Mayor, if all departments and offices consistently comply with established QMS procedures and ISO standards, stronger coordination and inter-office synergy can be achieved, ultimately resulting in more effective, responsive, and efficient delivery of services to the people of Loon.
“Dili lang ni para sa certification alone,” Mayor Yul stressed. “Ang importante ani mao nga mas mapalambo nato ang serbisyo para sa katawhan pinaagi sa organized ug systematic nga pagdumala.”
In line with this achievement, Mayor Lopez formally requested the Sangguniang Bayan and the Loon Association of Municipal Employees (LAME) to conduct a comprehensive assessment regarding the LGU’s implementation of ISO standards. This includes identifying the learnings, best practices, operational improvements, and sustainability mechanisms that have emerged since the certification process. The assessment, according to the Mayor, will help determine the Municipality’s next institutional actions and future directions concerning QMS implementation.
The Mayor also highlighted several accomplishments and continuing programs conducted by the LGU during the previous week. Among these were the ongoing distribution of fuel subsidies to tricycle drivers and assistance programs for upland farmers, aimed at helping vulnerable sectors cope with current economic challenges. Furthermore, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) continued implementing programs providing non-cash food vouchers to qualified beneficiaries for the purchase of basic necessities.
Meanwhile, preparations are also underway for the upcoming Loon Foundation Day Celebration this June 22. Mayor Lopez announced that a Peace and Order Council Meeting is expected to be conducted on Thursday to discuss security preparations, logistical arrangements, and coordination efforts to ensure the orderly and successful conduct of the celebration.
Another source of pride for the municipality was also announced during the ceremony. Mayor Yul proudly revealed that among all municipalities and LGUs in the Province of Bohol, the Municipality of Loon was officially selected by the Department of Education (DepEd) as the official kick-off LGU for Brigada Eskwela 2026. The Division Superintendent together with DepEd personnel are expected to lead the provincial kick-off activity at Loon Northeast High School in Barangay Bagacay Saong.
Because of this significant recognition, Mayor Lopez informed the assembly that he may not be able to personally attend next week’s flag ceremony as he is expected to represent the Municipality of Loon during the Brigada Eskwela kick-off activity.
During the discussions on ISO and organizational operations, manpower concerns in several departments were likewise raised. Despite the LGU currently having 334 Job Order personnel and 116 Contractual employees, totaling more than 400 workers under these categories, some offices still reported staffing challenges.
Addressing the issue, Mayor Yul emphasized the importance of leadership through systematic reassessment and proper personnel realignment rather than immediately resorting to additional hiring. He encouraged all departments to reevaluate existing assignments and operational structures while the LGU carefully studies the matter.
As part of demonstrating leadership by example, Mayor Lopez candidly shared that he had already terminated the contractual employment of his wife and instead encouraged her to continue rendering voluntary public service. The Mayor explained that sustainability, discipline, and practicality must prevail within the organization, especially in maintaining responsible governance and operational efficiency.
“I am sharing these as someone with a long experience in management,” Mayor Lopez stated. “So, I beg your indulgence, I beg your support since this is for all of us—to better provide you benefits and better service to our people.”
He further reminded everyone that sustainability is a crucial aspect of both QMS and ISO compliance. According to the Mayor, maintaining standards should not only happen during audits or evaluations but must become part of the LGU’s everyday culture of governance and public service.
“Kinahanglan dili lang ta maayo kung naa ang auditor. Ang atoang tumong mao ang consistent nga kalidad sa serbisyo adlaw-adlaw para sa katawhan,” he added.
The ceremony concluded with renewed calls for unity, accountability, cooperation, and continuous improvement among all offices and personnel of the LGU. Through sustained commitment and collective effort, the Municipality of Loon continues to strengthen its mission of delivering efficient, transparent, and citizen-centered governance for every Loonanon.
Daghang salamat ug madanihong adlaw kanatong tanan!