Baguio Mayor Benjie Magalong conferred the Cavalier Pandemic Heroes Award by the Philippine Military Academy

Photo Courtesy || Benjie Magalong - Public Servant

Cordillera - Mayor Benjie Magalong of Baguio city has been conferred the Cavalier Pandemic Heroes Award during the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Alumni Homecoming held on February 18, 2023.

The two-term mayor of Baguio was awarded for his exemplary performance in his capacity as 'Covid-19 Contract Tracing Czar of the Philippine Government that has contributed immensely in the fight to end the pandemic. 

Magalong is a retired police general was appointed by former President Duterte as the country's Contact Tracing Czar during the onslaught of covid in 2020 to lead the government's efforts in combating the spread of COVID-19.

His vast experience in crisis management, as well as his background in law enforcement and investigation, make him a suitable leader for this task. 

During his tenure as czar, he introduced a new method of contact tracing that focuses on thorough investigations, quick response, and encourage community participation.

Under his leadership, the country's contact tracing capacity significantly improved. He also introduced  a more efficient system for identifying, isolating, and treating COVID-19 patients, as well as for monitoring their close contacts.

Magalong's contributions in the fight against COVID-19 have been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and various international health organizations. His innovative approach to contact tracing serves as an inspiration for other countries battling the pandemic, and has helped to reduce the spread of the virus in the Philippines.

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PH's city mayors expressed full support to Baguio Mayor Benjie Magalong

Photo Courtesy || baguio.gov.ph & LCP

Cordillera - The League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) has expressed its utmost support and unwavering faith in the leadership of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. 

LCP National President and Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia has sent a letter to Mayor Magalong lauding his leadership as the Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) Contact Tracing Czar. 

The LCP president said Magalong's comprehensive and systematic contact tracing approach empowers various local government units using Baguio's innovative ICT solutions.

“Under his clear direction as the city mayor, Baguio City managed to reduce their COVID-19 transmissions consistently. The city was allowed to gradually re-open its local economy while still following health protocols,” Leonardia said in his letter adding this was lauded nationwide as best practice.

Recently, Magalong was heavily criticized on social media for attending a social gathering wherein many believed the mayor had breach health protocols which then prompted him to resign as contract tracing czar.

The LCP commended Magalong for admitting his lapses and offering resignation saying such action according to LCP is an act of humility and integrity. 

"We commend his strong commitment to accountability and justice that serves as a beacon of hope to his fellow city mayors and other public servants," the LCP letter reads.

source || JMS via Baguio Public Information Office FB.

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