A fan of pianist Cecile Licad whom he saw in an online concert in New York, Governor Patrick Alain Azanza has endorsed the first island concert of the world-acclaimed pianist in October 2025 in time for the island 80th Foundation Day.
“We have no budget for culture but I will personally finance this as my advocacy. Licad has to perform here not just for the seasoned music lovers but with the poor also represented in the audience. In that way, that concert would be more meaningful.”
While his focus is on health care and economic fronts, the new governor also pointed at the importance of the arts in the island.
His other dream project is to invite the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra to Catanduanes.
Dr. Azanza , the 7th president of Catanduanes State University, has been sworn in as the 13th governor of the island province of Catanduanes.
He took oath of office Monday June 30 from Ricardo Tevar, the barangay captain of JMA Tucao, one of the most remote island barrios located in San Miguel, Catanduanes.
Azanza succeeds Joseph Chua Cua who has served for a total of three terms.
The new governor has designated every Tuesday of the week as People’s Day.
“That day is when the governor can see islanders without making any appointment and going through bureaucratic red tape. For the rest of the week, I shall be making the rounds to various communities, reaching out to the geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas of the province. It is part of my open-door policy that allows direct access to the Governor’s Office to each and every Catandunganon. We now open the Capitol to everyone especially the poorest of the poor.”
A graduate of MA Sociology, PhD in Educational Administration, and Juris Doctor (JD) at University of the Philippines, Azanza made ripples the island in his first 100 days as university president.
As the new governor of Catanduanes, he wants transparency, integrity and accountability to be the same hallmark of the new era governance in the island.
In his message to the islanders, Azanza promised a new era of governance in the province: “As your governor, I pledge to stand for the truth, to honor our heritage, and to ensure that our story is told accurately and with pride. We will not let our history be distorted or forgotten. We will remember the struggles, the sacrifices, and the triumphs that have brought us to where we are today. We have a daunting task ahead. We need to overcome the shackles of dynasty, monopoly and widespread poverty in our island.”
Azanza said his platform for transformation is built on several key pillars. “First, we will prioritize serving the poor and the most in need. We will ensure that our programs and services are designed to uplift and empower those who have been left behind. We will also prioritize healthcare which means bringing annual X-ray and laboratory check-ups to the barangay and municipal level and providing free maintenance medicine to the barangay level.”
Azanza said modernizing the island is another priority. “We have to do it in a sustainable manner. We will harness the power of renewable energy, protect our environment, and promote eco-tourism. We will make sure that our development is inclusive, equitable, and environmentally responsible. We will attract investments, support local businesses, and create opportunities for economic growth for all the municipalities and the whole island province.”
The new governor also pointed out the province will open the island economy to all investors and establish economic zones in partnership with the Catanduanes State University (CatSU). This will create new opportunities for our people, drive innovation, and stimulate economic growth. “We’ve already shown that we can make a difference by lowering the prices of gasoline. Now, we’re working to increase the price of abaca and copra per kilo, ensuring that our farmers get a fair deal for their hard work. We’ll also support our fisherfolks, ensuring that they have the resources and support they need to thrive. We will protect our marine resources and fight against illegal fishing. In addition, we will drive digitalization and improve connectivity across the island.”
To those who have served the island with integrity and dedication, the new governor pointed out: “I respect your career and commitment to public service. You have nothing to fear from this new administration. However, to those who have been involved in corruption and illegal activities, I warn you: we will not tolerate it. We will prosecute and bring your actions to justice. It’s time to hold accountable those who have exploited our system and deprived our people of their rightful benefits.
And to those who have allowed themselves to be used in the past and took part in illegal activities, you will have to take responsibility for your actions. Either you turn state witnesses for us to catch the big fish, or you will be part of those who will be charged. We will not shield anyone who has contributed to the suffering of our people.”