The resounding victory of retired Police General “Egay” Aglipay in the 2025 Cagayan gubernatorial race is more than a political milestone—it is a defining moment for the province. Known for his sterling service record and ironclad leadership as a former Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Aglipay now returns to the forefront of public service, this time armed with both the credibility of his past and a vision for Cagayan’s future.

A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1971, Aglipay embodies the discipline, honor, and patriotism deeply instilled in every cadet. But his accomplishments extend far beyond his military education. He carved his name in the country’s national history as a reformist police officer, a staunch advocate for accountability, and a leader who believes in servant governance.

During his term as PNP Chief in 2004, albeit brief, Aglipay launched one of the most transformative initiatives in the organization—the CARE program, which stood for Courtesy, Action, Results, and Example. This program was not just a slogan but a call to arms for the rank-and-file to return to the core values of public service. His leadership was hands-on, pragmatic, and fearless. He dealt head-on with the issue of corruption in the police force, particularly the deeply rooted practice of “kotong,” or extortion.

Aglipay did not hesitate to implement unpopular but necessary reforms. He established disciplinary barracks, retraining erring police officers to redirect their careers toward honest service. This proactive, solution-oriented mindset sets him apart from traditional bureaucrats. As he transitions to his new civilian role as governor, this tenacity and ethical leadership are exactly what Cagayan needs.

Skeptics may wonder whether a military and police background is compatible with local governance. But in Aglipay’s case, the transition appears not only natural but advantageous. His strategic planning acumen, crisis management skills, and command experience are highly transferable to running a provincial government.

Cagayan, like many other provinces in the country, struggles with infrastructure gaps, healthcare accessibility, underemployment, and climate vulnerability. These are not mere administrative issues—they are multidimensional challenges that require a leader who can unify stakeholders, create data-driven policies, and see projects through to execution. These are precisely the skills honed through decades of leading high-stakes operations in the police and military.

More importantly, Aglipay is not new to civilian leadership either. After retiring from police service, he served in various public and private capacities and became an advocate for peace and order even outside uniform. He understands both the bureaucratic machinery and the importance of grassroots engagement.

Governor Aglipay's administration is expected to focus on three primary pillars: peace and order, inclusive economic development, and transparent governance. His familiarity with law enforcement will undoubtedly be an asset in addressing criminality, illegal drugs, and smuggling—issues that have plagued the northern provinces, including Cagayan, for years.

However, Aglipay also recognizes that peace and order are only the foundation. His campaign promises emphasized modernization of agriculture, development of coastal and ecotourism, and improved disaster resilience. He vowed to work closely with national agencies to bring in more infrastructure projects—roads, bridges, irrigation systems—that would connect far-flung barangays to economic centers.

Education and youth empowerment are also on his agenda. He believes in strengthening technical and vocational training programs and enhancing scholarship access for underprivileged students. For someone who once led thousands of police officers, Aglipay knows that investing in human capital is essential for long-term growth and stability.

Egay is Chair of the EMME Group of Companies, a conglomerate engaged in the business of logistics, security, trading, property, construction and energy. His business conglomerate grew through the application of moral and ethical leadership and, entrepreneurial management principles. He shares this success with wife Mawie, a business partnership forged in love. This strength bodes well as he navigates the economic and business affairs of the province.

Perhaps what sets Aglipay apart from many of his contemporaries is his deep sense of accountability. In every position he has held, he has led not by title but by example. His PMA roots remind him constantly of the seal— “Courage, Integrity, Loyalty.” These are not just words to him; they are values that define his every decision.

In a province often beset by dynastic politics, Aglipay’s entry provides a refreshing alternative—leadership grounded not in lineage, but in competence and public trust. He has nothing to prove, but everything to give.

Cagayan now finds itself under the stewardship of a man who has proven himself in the national arena. Edgar Aglipay’s return is not a mere comeback—it is a call to reimagine local governance through the lens of disciplined leadership, public service, and visionary planning.

As Governor Aglipay begins his term, the people of Cagayan can expect more than promises—they can anticipate results. And if his record is any indication, those results will be grounded in action, integrity, and the unwavering commitment to the people he now serves.