Statement of Support

Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who served as the Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief during the Duterte Administration’s war on drugs, emphasized his commitment to this campaign. He also stressed the importance of respecting the country’s sovereignty, especially now that the Philippines has regained its freedom after more than 300 years of colonization.

Moreover, Senator Dela Rosa spoke about human rights, stating that the Philippines has been a victim of human rights abuses for centuries. He vowed to ensure that the victims of the Marawi siege would be compensated for their suffering. He also challenged other countries to respect the Philippines’ human rights and not lecture them on this matter.

The senator closed his message by apologizing for his strong sentiments and asking for patience from the participants. He expressed his hope that the assembly would be a fruitful event that would lead to more significant progress and development for the Mindanao Island Cluster.

Senator Imee Marcos highlighted the significant role of mayors in implementing policies and solutions in their respective municipalities. Senator Marcos emphasized that the national government can make policies, but it is up to the local executives to tailor-fit these policies to their specific areas.

She also recognized the crucial role of mayors as frontliners in addressing the needs of their constituents. Senator Marcos emphasized that mayors are the ones who have access to microdata collected from the community, which is essential in responding to the needs of their constituents.

Senator Marcos also expressed her support for the allocation of the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) for municipalities. She acknowledged the importance of this allocation, especially in providing jobs and opportunities for the people in the municipalities.

The senator also addressed the issue of disasters, particularly in Mindanao, and expressed her commitment to providing aid to those affected. She also shared her plans for implementing innovative projects in agriculture through the Imeesoulusyon program, which will provide 25 million pesos in grants to the most innovative projects from Mindanao.

Senator Grace Poe emphasizes the importance of Mindanao’s progress in her speech during the 1st General Assembly of the League of Municipalities of

In her speech, Senator Poe thanked Mayor Ronie and the chapter Presidents of the LMP for their service and for giving help and hope, especially during the pandemic. She also mentioned that Mindanao’s beauty has been portrayed in films, particularly

Moreover, Senator Poe stressed the importance of Mindanao’s development, particularly in agriculture. She mentioned the need for stronger policies to ensure peace in Mindanao and the need for the government to work hand in hand with local officials. She suggested that the national government should establish a Department of Water Resources to address concerns with irrigation and power.

Senator Poe encouraged the League of Municipalities of the Philippines to pursue a document that would embody the aspirations of the people of Mindanao. She expressed her hope that this event would mark the beginning of a stronger partnership between the LMP and the Senate.

In her message, Senator Risa Hontiveros commended the mayors for their tireless service and for being the face of public service in their respective towns and cities. She expressed her gratitude for their support during the recent 2022 elections, which helped her continue the fight in the Senate for the love and welfare of Mindanaoans.

The senator also emphasized that the LGUs play a vital role in serving their constituents, and that by working together, they can strengthen their capacity to provide better services to their communities. She assured the mayors that they have her full support, and that with their passion and dedication, they will be able to make a positive impact on the lives of their constituents.