Kidapawan City, North Cotabato — With a fresh mandate secured in the recent elections, re-elected Kidapawan City Mayor Jose Paolo “Pao” Evangelista is wasting no time setting the tone for his second term. In a heartfelt social media post addressed to the people of Kidapawan, the young mayor outlined a progressive and reform-oriented political agenda centered on transparency, integrity, and community empowerment.
Mayor Evangelista, who served his first term from 2022 to 2025, emphasized that governance must remain grounded in public trust, humility, and accountability. “Nahuman na gyud ang first term nako isip inyohang City Mayor,” he wrote. “Atoang ipadayon ang kultura sa maayong panggobyerno diri sa Kidapawan.”
Here’s a closer look at the five major policy initiatives that Mayor Evangelista is set to implement in his second term (2025–2028):
1. Transparent Procurement Through Facebook Livestreams
In a pioneering move, the sessions of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) will now be broadcast live via Facebook. This measure aims to ensure full transparency in the procurement and bidding processes of the local government. By allowing the public to witness these proceedings in real-time, the city hopes to curb corruption, boost public trust, and demonstrate the integrity of every government transaction.
2. Prioritizing Local Producers through Community Procurement
Through the Negotiated Procurement-Community Participation policy, the city government will give priority to sourcing food and agri-fishery products from local producers—particularly farmers’ groups, fisherfolk, women’s associations, cooperatives, 4Ps beneficiaries, and other community-based organizations. This not only supports the local economy but also integrates marginalized sectors into the supply chain of public projects.
3. Strict Enforcement of “No Gift Policy” Across All Government Offices
In line with ethical governance, Mayor Evangelista is enforcing a no-nonsense “No Gift Policy” in all offices under the city government and its 40-plus barangays. The message is clear: public service is not a favor, and officials are paid to perform their duties without expecting tokens, gifts, or tips. “Sweldado ta sa gobyerno. Dili na kinahanglan og regalo,” he stressed.
4. Dropping the Use of “Honorable” Titles for Elected Officials
In an effort to cultivate humility and break away from traditional symbols of political elitism, Mayor Evangelista has banned the use of the term “Honorable” for all elected officials, including barangay leaders. “Isip public servant, dili personal ‘honor’ ang atoang apas sa pag serbisyo,” he said. The directive recommends using the official’s position instead, highlighting the role—not the person behind it.
5. Ban on Politician’s Faces and Names on Government Project Signages
Staying true to his stance against politicization of public service, Mayor Evangelista continues to prohibit the use of politician names and photos on posters, tarpaulins, and other materials related to government-funded projects or activities. This rule applies to all elected and appointed officials, from the city to the barangay level, and underscores that government projects belong to the people—not to individual politicians.
A Second Term Rooted in Reform
Mayor Evangelista’s bold and clear-cut policy agenda for his second term signals a maturing political leadership committed to transforming public service culture in Kidapawan. His emphasis on accountability and citizen-first governance is drawing praise from civic groups and constituents alike.
As the city looks ahead to the next three years, residents are hopeful that these reforms will not only institutionalize good governance but also inspire other local governments to follow suit.
“Daghang salamat!” the mayor concluded in his message. “God bless us all!”
With reforms taking center stage, Kidapawan is poised to lead by example—reminding Filipinos that real change can start at the local level, with leaders who lead with integrity.