Biography
Governor Aurelio “Oyie” Matias Umali is a distinguished public servant, lawyer, and leader who currently serves as the Governor of the Province of Nueva Ecija. Known for his steadfast resolve to promote peace, uphold the liberty and dignity of Novo Ecijanos, and advance sustained and inclusive local development, Governor Umali has dedicated much of his career to public service.
Born and raised in Nueva Ecija, Governor Umali pursued a strong academic foundation before entering public service. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Santo Tomas and completed his Bachelor of Laws at San Beda College in Manila. He further pursued graduate studies at De La Salle University, where he earned his Master in Business Administration. He subsequently passed the Philippine Bar Examination and became a licensed lawyer in 1992.
Before entering politics, Governor Umali gained valuable experience in the private and public sectors. He served as Procurement and Sub-Contract Director of Lucent Technologies and later became Deputy Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission. These experiences helped shape his leadership and management skills, which he would later bring into government service.
Governor Umali entered politics in 2001 when he was elected Representative of the Third Congressional District of Nueva Ecija. He served in the House of Representatives from 2001 to 2007, where he worked to advance programs and initiatives for the benefit of his constituents and the province.
In 2007, he was elected Governor of Nueva Ecija, becoming the youngest elected governor of the province at that time. He served three consecutive terms from 2007 to 2016. During his administration, he emphasized peace and order, infrastructure development, public services, and programs intended to improve the quality of life of Novo Ecijanos.
After completing his three terms as governor, Governor Umali continued his commitment to public service. His wife, Czarina “Cherry” Domingo Umali, succeeded him as governor and served from 2016 to 2019. Governor Umali subsequently returned to the provincial capitol after winning the 2019 gubernatorial election.
Since returning to office in 2019, Governor Umali has continued to lead the Provincial Government of Nueva Ecija with an emphasis on inclusive development and responsive public service. The Provincial Government identifies agriculture, education, disaster and risk management, health, livelihood, and infrastructure among its key programs and services. His administration carries the banner of “Serbisyong May Malasakit” for the people of Nueva Ecija.
As governor, Governor Umali continues to champion initiatives that support the province’s agricultural communities, strengthen infrastructure, improve access to essential services, and promote opportunities for Novo Ecijanos. His leadership reflects his long-standing commitment to building a progressive, peaceful, and resilient Nueva Ecija.
With years of experience in law, government, and public administration, Governor Aurelio “Oyie” Matias Umali remains dedicated to serving the people of Nueva Ecija. His career in public service is anchored on leadership, compassion, and a continuing commitment to the welfare and development of all Novo Ecijanos.
Governor Aurelio “Oyie” Matias Umali, Governor, Province of Nueva Ecija.
