Manila Standard - 2023 May 29 - Monday

In

‘Betty’ slows, NCR on ‘Bravo’

Luzon feels ‘habagat’ winds; Metro Manila at moderate risk for flooding

By Rio N. Araja and Charles Dantes

TYPHOON “Betty” has slightly weakened and was moving west-northwestward over the Philippine Sea east of Northern Luzon, even as Metro Manila was on “Bravo alert” for the storm’s possible effects and 12 provinces remained under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 on Sunday.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) also revealed yesterday that over 400 barangays in the National Capital Region are at risk of floods due to the expected combined effects of Betty (international name: Mawar) and the southwest monsoon or “habagat.”

The center of the typhoon, the country’s second this year, was estimated at 630 kilometers east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan as of 5 p.m. Sunday.

STORM WATCH. An officer of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Station Cagayan monitors the weather, sea conditions, and flood warning system in flooded areas in his part of Northern Luzon to ensure the quick and safe evacuation of residents affected by Typhoon Betty (inset), while in Batanes, Ivana Police personnel help residents reinforce the roof of their homes ahead of the storm grazing the province by Monday. AFP, PCG photos

1k flee Lanao town with terrorist threat

By Charles Dantes

OVER a thousand residents of Marogong, Lanao del Sur were forced to flee their homes over the weekend after threats of an attack from the Daulah Islamiyah following the apprehension of its members last week.

In a statement, Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr. on Sunday confirmed the reports of the swift evacuation of 1,236 individuals (206 families) from Marogong to nearby towns to avoid being in the middle of the possible crossfire.

Adiong said the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office

2 more priority bills set for approval this week, 33 out of 42 from LEDAC

By Rio N. Araja

THE House of Representatives is scheduled to approve on third and final reading this week two more bills tagged as priority measures by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).

“We are doing our part in supporting the President’s socio-economic development agenda by passing these urgent proposed pieces of legislation that would sustain our economic growth and create

ALBAY Rep. Joey Salceda on Sunday said Congress is studying the Senate’s version of the Maharlika Investment Fund, which President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier certified as urgent in a bid to hasten its passage as Congress adjourns sine die this week.

"We

more job and income opportunities for our people,” Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said on Sunday.

“We are inching toward accomplishing our goal of approving all of these priorities measures, thanks to the hard and tireless work of our colleagues,” he added. The two bills set to be passed on final reading are the proposed Philippine Salt Industry Development Act and the Bureau of Immigration Modernization Act.

ceptable as it stands," Salceda said.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Thursday expressed hope that the House of Representatives will adopt the Senate version of the MIF bill, which he said would include more safeguards to avoid possible misuse.

While the House passed

By Rio N. Araja

and the local government of Marogong are contacting the villagers who have fled to different municipalities.

“The provincial government, the police, and the military are in control. We don’t want the displacement of our constituents in Marogong just like that. Our security authorities are on top of the situation,” Adiong said.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines - Western Mindanao Command reported on May 27 that four alleged members of the militant group Daulah Islamiyah were arrested.

WesMinCom Public Information

Chief Maj. Andrew Linao identified the

four members as Abu Rasas, 18, a leader under Fajarudin Pumbaya Pangalian, the amir (ruler) of DI-Philippines; "Saidi", 18, brother of DI-Lanao sub-leader Abu Sham; and two minors aged 16 and 14. Linao said that Rasas is one of the key leaders under Fajarudin Pumbaya Pangalian alias Abu Zacariah, the Amir of DI-Philippines, while "Saidi" is the brother of DI-Lanao sub-leader known as Abu Sham.

Daulah Islamiyah has members who originally belonged to the Maute terror group that led the Marawi Siege in 2017. As of 2022, police and military units

President and Deputy Speaker

FORMER

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo took exception to rumors dragging First Lady Liza Marcos-Araneta into a reported coup attempt at the House of Representatives.

In a statement posted on her Face-

book page Sunday, Arroyo sought to put an end to what she described as "pathetic rumors" and urged everyone to move on.

“A report is going around that I was ‘duped’ by a congresswoman into thinking that the alleged House coup had the blessings of the First Lady. I am truly sorry that she should even be dragged

into this political fantasy of a House coup – it is disrespectful to her and to her intelligence,” Arroyo said.

“Whoever is spreading these pathetic rumors are the ones duping the Filipino people, and they should now move on to the serious business of making positive contributions to national progress," she added.

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin Romualdez applauded the launch of Pier 88 in Liloan, Cebu, saying the enhanced mobility in the region will generate new business opportunities, bolster economic growth and create jobs for the people.

Romualdez was among the top government officials who accompanied President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the launch.

“The significance of this project cannot be overstated, as it will create countless opportunities for businesses, create job opportunities, and contribute to the

This screen grab from an ABS-CBN TV report on Sunday shows some of the 1,236 persons from Marogong, Lanao del Sur evacuating the town to avoid being in the middle of the possible crossfire with government troops and forces of the Daulah Islamiyah, who threatened reprisal for the capture of some of their members.

Tolentino (third from right) joins Dr. Emmanuel Franco Calairo of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), Imus City Mayor Alex Advincula, and Cavite 3rd District Rep. Adrian "Jay" Advincula at the Inang laya monument during the commemoration of the National Flag Day and the 125th Anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence in Alapan, Imus on Sunday. Norman Cruz

this special 16-page feature, we recognize the zeal and talents of over 100 legislators from every region of the country.

PBBM orders body to clip inflation

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the creation of an Inter-Agency Committee on Inflation and Market Outlook (IAC-IMO) in a bid to boost efforts to ease inflation and improve the economy.

Under Executive Order No. 28, the IACEMO shall serve as an advisory body to the Economic Development Group (EDG), previously called the Economic Development Cluster, on measures that would keep inflation, particularly of food and energy, within government targets.

“In view of the increasing prices of key commodities, particularly food and energy resources, the creation of an advisory body to the EDC, tasked to directly address inflation, will strengthen the EDC, and reinforce existing government initiatives aimed to improve the economy and the quality of life of the Filipino people,” the EO read.

‘Betty’...

From A1

Packing maximum sustained winds of 165 km/hour near the center and gustiness of up to 295 km/h, it was moving west-northwestward at 15 km/h.

TCWS no. 1 was raised in Batanes, Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, Isabela, Apayao, Ilocos Norte, the northern and central portions of Abra, Kalinga, the eastern and central portions of Mt. Province, the northern and central portions of Aurora, Quirino, and the northeastern portion of Nueva Vizcaya.

The enhanced southwest monsoon may bring occasional gusts reaching a strong breeze to near gale strength Monday over most of the Visayas, the eastern portion of Central Luzon, the eastern and southern portion of Southern Luzon, and the northern portion of Mindanao.

The western portion of Luzon may also experience similar conditions beginning on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Betty will likely remain a typhoon throughout the forecast period, although it is expected to gradually weaken until Tuesday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.

“Afterwards, an increasingly unfavorable environment while moving northward or north-northeastward on Wednesday or Thursday will result in a faster weakening rate,” it added.

MMDA Acting Chairman Don Artes said the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has already placed NCR on Bravo alert, meaning the region is at moderate risk due to Betty.

A recent report released by the MMDA also shows that 423 barangays in Metro Manila are at risk of floods:

124 in Caloocan City, 110 in Quezon City, 109 in Manila City, 32 in Valenzuela City, 14 in Malabon City, 13 in Navotas City, and one in Pasig City.

This comes as data from PAGASA and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources show that 50-millimeter rains are expected in the next 24 hours.

“The rains will be quite strong, but this will be scattered within the 24-hour period. It will not be sudden, but it will still be a lot…

There is a possibility that they would be submerged or flooded,” Artes said in

2 more...

From A1

The bills’ approval would bring to 33 the total number of LEDAC priority measures approved by the House.

There are 42 bills in the LEDAC list. Three other LEDAC priority bills — Natural Gas Industry Enabling Law, National Employment Action Plan, and Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System Bill — are set for second-reading approval before adjourning sine die.

Romualdez said the draft Philippine Salt Industry Development Act seeks to revive the dying salt industry in the country, which imports a large part of the commodity.

“We have to help the industry and the thousands of Filipinos and their families who depend on it for their livelihood. Our country is surrounded by seas. We can produce a lot of salt

Solons...

From A1

Because the bill was certified by President Marcos as urgent, senators can approve it on second and third reading in the same week.

But for the proposed investment measure to pass before Congress adjourns this week, the House must adopt the Senate bill without going through a bicameral conference to iron out differences between the two bills.

"I don’t want to preclude their process-

The IAC-EMO will be composed of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary as chairperson; the Finance Secretary as co-chairperson; the Budget Secretary as vice-chairperson; and the secretaries of Agriculture, Energy, Science and Technology, Trade, and Interior as members.

Among the functions of the advisory body are to closely monitor the main drivers of inflation, particularly food and energy, and their proximate sources and causes; assess the supply-demand situation for essential food commodities during the cropping period, allowing periodic updating as new information becomes available;

a GMA TV report. “This typhoon, even if it veers away or does not make landfall in the country, will pull the habagat wind which will really cause rains and floods,” he added.

For its part, the Metro Manila Council President and San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora said local government units are prepared, with rescue equipment already prepositioned in case of floods.

The MMDA has already coordinated with the Manila mayors since Saturday night and discussed their preparations. According to Artes, the agency has already readied the 71 pumping stations in Metro Manila should there be heavy rains.

Typhoon preparations are still on standby, according to Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Assistant Communication Officer Rommel Allada.

In Las Piñas, the DRRMO is bracing for possible heavy rains as the southwest monsoon might be enhanced by Betty.

The city has already activated its search and rescue team, adding rescue boats, trucks, and modular tents are prepositioned should evacuation be implemented.

Some areas in the nine villages of Las Piñas facing the coastal areas are at risk for flooding, it added.

In a related development, Batanes

Governor Marilou Cayco ordered the removal of a specific brand of canned tuna from family food packs ahead of the expected impact of Betty, citing earlier complaints about the product from Mindoro Island recipients.

Cayco said the specific canned tuna—set to expire in 2025—was ordered to be removed from the packs of the Department of Welfare and Development (DSWD) by the national government and are set to be replaced by another brand.

“We were tasked by the national [government] to remove this because of the issue in Mindoro. The issue there was that they were said to be rotten, pungent, salty, and fishy… These will be replaced with a new and different brand, but the problem is that the replacements have yet to arrive as no ships can sail here,” the governor added in a 24 Oras report.

Betty may be downgraded to a severe tropical storm category on Thursday when it is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility toward Taiwan and Japan.

for our consumption and even for export,” he said.

He said that the government must assist salt farmers with training, technology, and funding to increase their produce and help them market their produce.

The Bureau of Immigration Modernization Act seeks to update the 83-year-old immigration law, Commonwealth Act No. 613 or the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940. “The bill aims to modernize and streamline our immigration system to encourage international tourism and foreign investments that would boost the economy,” Romualdez said.

At the same time, it would refresh the country’s immigration law to cover recent challenges in immigration and migration and cross-border crimes, including smuggling, illegal recruitment, and human trafficking, he said.

The bill also seeks to update the compensation of immigration personnel.

es. I think they’re in theperiod of interpellation right now, and will probably take up amendments and approval (this) week, at the earliest,” Salceda said.

“There’s still enough time to approve it before SONA, for sure. But whether there is bicam or not, whether the House ratifies the Senate version, as Senate President Zubiri suggested, really depends on the final output,” he added.

In the Senate version of the bill, the fund’s initial capital will come from the Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines, dividends from the Bangko Sentral ng

assess the possible impact of natural and man-made shocks on the supply of key food commodities; and regularly monitor data necessary to assess food prices and the supply and demand situation.

IAC-EMO is also tasked to facilitate regular and efficient data sharing among concerned agencies to effect timely supply and demand situation analysis; monitor global, regional, and domestic developments and issues that may affect prices: and provide timely recommendations to the EDG and relevant agencies on measures to curb price spikes and promote food security based on ex-ante supply and demand analysis.

The President also ordered the IACIMO to submit a report to the EDG of the country's food and energy supply and demand situation and outlook every quarter, or as the circumstances may require.

The report shall include recommendations on short, medium, and long-term measures to manage inflation.

“The typhoon will likely become slow-moving to almost stationary by Tuesday while over the waters east of Batanes. It will then move northward or north-northeastward by mid Wednesday towards the sea east of Taiwan,” PAGASA also said.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Red Cross said it is ready to deploy itsfood trucks and other assets in areas affected by the typhoon.

As Betty approaches the extreme northern part of the country, PRC chairman Richard Gordon assured the public that Red Cross chapters in the typhoon’s path are ready to respond with food trucks, along with other disaster response equipment, such as amphibians, rescue boats, ambulance units, 6x6 trucks, payloaders, and water tankers.

PRC also said two of its water tankers have been positioned in Nueva Vizcaya and Olongapo, along with relief items, food packs, sleeping packs, and water containers.

Several local government units (LGUs) suspended classes on Monday, May 29, because of Betty.

Apayao and Cagayan provinces suspended in-person and online classes for all levels in public and private schools.

In Ifugao, the municipality of Alfonso Lista suspended classes from Kinder to Grade 12, including alternative learning systems, in public and private schools.

In Ilocos Norte, the municipality of Solsona suspended classes at all levels in public and private schools.

The entire province of Ilocos Sur suspended all classes in all levels in public and private schools.

In La Union, the municipality of Luna suspended classes in all levels in public and private schools.

The Army’s 5th Infantry Division mustered its disaster response team and deployed troops in its area of operation in Cagayan Valley, Cordillera, and the Ilocos Region.

5ID Commander Maj. Gen. Audrey

L. Pasia said they would position water filtration units in key areas of Cagayan Valley.

Meanwhile, army men joined the multi-agency meeting of the Cagayan Provincial Incident Management Team to discuss plans for prompt and responsive humanitarian assistance and disaster response efforts in the province.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)

Speaker...

From A1 overall development of our community,” Romualdez said.

He also commended the local government of Liloan, the private sector, and the people of the municipality for working together to bring the concept into reality.

“This project would not have been possible without the collaboration and support of our government partners, private investors, and, mostimportantly, the resilience and unwavering support of the people of Liloan,” he said.

The Pier 88 project was a product of the partnership between Liloan and the Topline Group of Companies and Pier

Arroyo...

From A1

Arroyo, who was replaced as Senior Deputy Speaker two weeks ago, was

Pilipinas, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp, and from the privatization of government assets. The proposed Maharlika Investment Corporation will also be allowed to issue bonds.

There will also be limitations in relation to investments in real estate, which shall be limited to major capital projects, as endorsed by the National Economic and Development Authority Board, to ensure that these are in line with the government’s socio-economic development programs. Other changes are new provisions

The IAC-IMO shall also formulate and maintain a dashboard containing relevant information on prices, as well as the supply and demand for food and energy commodities. Meanwhile, the EO tasked the EDG to undertake research and development that are relevant to and supportive of the requirements of micro, small, and mediumscale enterprises and for national industries; improve national productivity and competitiveness of domestic products and services; and ensure deep and wide distribution of economic opportunities and benefits to the Filipino people.

EDG is composed of the Finance Secretary as chairperson; NEDA as cochairperson; and the head of Presidential Management Staff and the secretaries of Agriculture, Budget, Energy, Information and Communications Technology, Interior, Labor, Public Workers, Science and Technology, Trade, Transportation, and Tourism as members. Vince Lopez

activated its emergency preparedness and response protocols across the country.

“We continue to coordinate with different agencies on preparations forSuper Typhoon ‘Betty.’ This is to ensure that all necessary measures are in place from the national down to the local level," Civil Defense Administrator and NDRRMC Executive Director, Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno said in a statement.

"We have already identified and activated appropriate emergency preparedness and response protocols in different regions to be affected by the weather disturbance,” he added.

Meanwhile, a total of 1,679 teams from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Coast Guard are on the watch for search, rescue, and retrieval operations.

The Office of Civil Defense and the Department of Social Welfare andDevelopment said that they have P2.2 billion worth of stockpile standby funds and P256.2 million worth of Quick Response Fund to be used for aid to victims of the typhoon.

In Cagayan Valley, the Cagayan Valley Regional Disaster Risk Reductionand Management Council advised LGUs to start pre-emptive evacuation, especially in the areas affected by floods and landslides.

The local government of Manila has raised the blue alert status in preparation for the possible effects of super typhoon Betty.

Blue alert status means that all the equipment needed in rescue operations is prepared with situational reports being provided every six hours.

Rommel Allada, the assistant communication officer of the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), said they arenow operating for 24 hours, and the personnel's rest days have been canceled.

Rescue equipment and personnel are also on standby.

In Marikina City, preparations for Betty started Thursday and theevacuation centers are now open. Rescue boats are already on standby.

About 20,000 Marikina residents usually evacuate due to flooding.

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) on Sunday announced the suspension of several trips, due to bad weather brought about by Betty.

88 Ventures.

“The House of Representatives remains firm in our support for the Build Better More infrastructure program of the Marcos administration that would uplift the lives of our people by enhancing the quality of critical infrastructure in our transport sector, digital connectivity, power and energy, and health-related initiatives,” Romualdez said.

On Monday, the House of Representatives approved on third and final reading a consolidated bill providing for a 30-year national infrastructure program for 2023 up to 2052. House Bill 8078 or the 30-Year National Infrastructure Program Act focuses on projects of national significance that would serve as the country’s infrastructure backbone. Rio N. Araja

linked to a coup plot at the Lower House.

Arroyo said a coup attempt at the House of Representatives needs the blessing of the President and that she did not participate in any way in such an effort. With Vince Lopez

with the forms of joint ventures andcoinvestments on the issuance of bonds as well as to the board of directors to reflect nine permanent members, instead of the original 15.

"Right now, my comment is I see that they removed all special exemptions to civil service rules, and to audit. Now, that’s well and good, but from a corporate operations point of view, that also presents certain challenges,” Salceda said.

"It appears that MIF will be a government-owned and controlledcorporation in every sense. That has operational pros and cons,” he added. Rio N. Araja

‘DPWH, LWUA must ink pact on right-of-way’

THE Department of Justice issued an opinion that the Department of Public Works and Highways should enter into a memorandum of agreement with the Local Waterworks and Utilities Administration involving the road right-ofway (RROW) and cost of relocation for water district facilities affected by road widening projects.

In a four-page legal opinion, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remullasaid that while LWUA is an attached agency of DPWH, the latter does not have control over the former.

The DOJ issued the legal opinion upon the request of DPWH SecretaryManuel Bonoan in order to settle the issue on the claim for compensation of local water districts (LWDs).

The DPWH said the LWUA and the Philippine Association of Water Districts (PAWD) initially drafted and proposed an MOA to the department to address the issue of RROW and the cost of relocation of water district facilities affected by road widening projects.

In particular, the DPWH asked the DOJ whether or not it is necessary for the department to enter into a MOA with LWUA considering that the latter is an attached agency of the DPWH.

It also asked the justice department whether or not local water district agencies are entitled to compensation in instances when a need for relocation of water pipelines occurs.

If local water districts should be compensated, the DPWH asked the DOJ about the necessary mode and means of payment under the existing rules of the Commission on Audit (COA).

Lastly, the DPWH asked the DOJ’s guidance on whether or not thecompensation for LWDs can be derived from the right-of-way funds of the department.

In response, the DOJ noted that in its Opinion No. 098 issued in 1988, it held that “DPWH shall bear the expenses only for serviceable pipes/sewers affected DPWH infra projects.”

Rey E. Requejo

Remulla says PH to crack down on drug syndicates

THE Philippines is committed to cracking down on organized and big drug syndicates through “effective, focused and dedicated law enforcement,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla told an international audience on Friday.

Speaking at a side event of the 32nd Session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Vienna, Austria, on Friday, Remulla said the Department of Justice supports a review of the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as recommended by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

“The DOJ supports the conduct of an executive review in light of the Philippine administration’s new direction to approach the drug problem through the prism of public health for persons who use drugs and small-time peddlers who got involved in low-level drug transactions due to health, social, and economic factors,” he said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also instructed the Philippines' law enforcement agencies to go after drug syndicates instead of street-level players, Remulla said.

Remulla also said the DOJ, together with the Department of Health, is committed to implementing comprehensive health measures to address health concerns in jails and prisons such as HIV, AIDS, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and other diseases by revisiting jail and prison policies. Rey E. Requejo

1k...

From A1 have arrested a total of 32 Daulah Islamiyah members and supporters. Meanwhile, soldiers killed 16 Daulah Islamiyah members in different military operations in Lanao Del Sur from June 2022 to March this year.

Maj. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, 1st Infantry Division commander, said Saturday the four were arrested by troops of the 32nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Pabrika, Marugong town on Thursday night.

Seized from their possession were firearms, explosives, and ammunition, including grenade launchers. Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Western Mindanao Command chief, commended the soldiers and credited the tip provided by the group of Moro Islamic Liberation Front commander Esmail Cosain.

IN BRIEF

Gatchalian: Nat’l ID sufficient for banks

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian called on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to remind banks that Republic Act 11055 or the Philippine Identification System Act compels them to accept the national ID as sufficient proof of identity for financial transactions, and any bank that refuses to recognize it will be fined P500,000.

Gatchalian made the call amid continuing complaints that some banks refuse to recognize the national ID as proof of identity because the card itself does not display the person’s signature.

“This is not the intention of the law. The national ID system is meant to simplify public and private transactions. The BSP should immediately look into this issue and ensure that all financial institutions, especially Landbank and Development Bank of the Philippines, adhere to the law,” Gatchalian said. Macon Ramos-Araneta

WHO lauds Cayetano for tobacco advocacy

THE World Health Organization (WHO) recently recognized Senator Pia Cayetano and four other global public health champions from the Western Pacific Region for advocating tobacco control and championing laws, programs and projects that combat smoking, vapes and heated tobacco products.

The Department of Health confirmed over the weekend that Cayetano was “acknowledged for her dedicated advocacy in promoting the global campaign against tobacco.”

Every year, WHO recognizes individuals and organizations in each region for their important contributions to tobacco control with the WHO Director-General Special Recognition and World No Tobacco Day awards.

‘EO must fix DICT-NSA pact for IDs’

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. should issue an executive order that would transfer to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) certain functions of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to expedite the issuance of national identity card of Filipinos under the 2018 Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) law, the Department of Justice said.

“To fully realize the objectives of the PhilSys Act, there is a necessity to reorganize the Executive Department, by transferring some of the functions of the PSA under the PhilSys Act to the DICT, for purposes of rolling-out the digital PhilSys ID,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla said in a DOJ

legal opinion.

“To do this, the corresponding Executive Order must be issued providing for the same, specifically directing the PSA to grant DICT access to the data needed for producing digital PhilSys IDs,” he added.

The DOJ chief noted that during a

sectoral meeting last April 25, “the President expressed his utmost desire to expedite the roll-out of the PhilSys ID considering that the law remains not fully implemented despite its enactment five (5) years ago.”

“Thus, the DICT and the PSA were instructed to accelerate the roll-out of the digital PhilSys ID,” he said.

According to him, the President’s directive “is in accordance with Section 17, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution, which provides that the President shall have control of all the executive departments, bureaus and offices.”

He stressed that the constitutional mandate “gives the President the con-

tinuing authority to reorganize the Executive branch.”

“Jurisprudence has likewise recognized this continuing power of the President to reorganize the offices and agencies in the executive department in line with the President’s constitutionally granted power of control over executive offices,” said Remulla, who cited some of Supreme Court rulings related to the issue.

Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin sought Remulla’s opinion when he asked for the Justice chief’s position on the collaboration of the PSA and the DICT to accelerate the roll-out of the PhilSys IDs.

Rey E. Requejo

PNP: No directive to red-tag PAO lawyer in CARAGA

THE Philippine National Police has denied red-tagging the Public Attorney’s Office for extending aid to suspected rebels.

PNP Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., in a letter, told lawyer Ingrid Trixia Rullon-Nastor of PAO’s CARAGA Regional Office 13 in Butuan City that “the PNP did not issue any directive to conduct profiling on personalities providing support to communist terrorist groups, more so on PAO lawyers.”

“The organization recognizes the unequaled contribution of PAO in guaranteeing justice in the society, an endeavor that the PNP shares,” Acorda said.

He responded to Rullon-Nastor’s communication complaining that Col. Dennis Siruno, Surigao del Sur provincial director, issued a memorandum on March 29 directing the Lianga police to profile “legal personalities providing litigation to communist terrorist group cases.”

Cited in the order was Carol Anne General of PAO.

“Unfortunately, one of the lawyers of PAO was subjected to profiling,” the PNP chief lamented. Rio N. Araja

‘HOHO’ BUS. Tourism Secretary Cristina Frasco and her two sons ride a bus as she leads the pilot run of the ‘Philippine Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) Travel By the Hubs’ tourism project in Makati City on Sunday. Led and initiated by the DOT-National Capital Region (NCR), the HOHO bus tours offer a seamless travel experience to local group travelers as well as frequent individual travelers (FITs) who wish to leisurely explore various tourism hubs in a single connected trip. Danny Pata

EDITORIAL AI

EVERYONE is talking about AI, or artificial intelligence, and how it will impact upon our lives more and more in the near future.

But this article is not about the technology that may soon render a lot of human endeavors and skills obsolete.

It is an observation on how our senators, belonging to the “upper house” of Congress, once described as “august” when a Recto, a Laurel, a Tanada, a Primicias, and others lorded it over in elegant prose and intelligent debate, now comport themselves, these 24 “republics” elected at large by a policrazy electorate.

Now that coined term, poli-crazy is subject to several interpretations: a society where the vast majority are so engrossed in usual politicking; an elected leadership that panders to populism at the expense of good sense and good economics.

Thus, it is contradistinguished from a polycracy where many rule, instead of one man.

In a larger sense though, our authoritarian history has given way not to a genuine democracy but a polycracy, where oligarchs rule both the economy and the polity.

Still, enough of the play on semantics.

The Senate President gave his 24 republics a deadline, through a declaration that the once august body will pass the Maharlika Investment Fund/Corporation into law, as requested by the President through a certification of urgency.

“Mande, Senor Presidente”, he might as well have said. Your wish is our command.

Another welcome news is the President’s call upon Congress to pass the National Land Use bill into law

And our mustachioed topnotcher senator further called for a “somos o no somos” clarion call, where voting for the Maharlika has become a function of whether or not one is supportive of the incumbent President.

Sen. Robinhood must be reminded of our system of government, where an independent legislature is counterbalance to, and provides checks to, the power of a most powerful president.

Mawalang galang na po: masusing pinag-aaralan ang bawa’t batas na nililikha ninyo.

Hindi po kayo utusan o kasangkapan ng Pangulo.

Marcos Junior is the president, not Marcos Senior, Mr. Senator, sir. One of the more circumspect and not artificially intelligent members of the Senate, Chiz Escudero, reminded his colleagues that “in any investment pitch, profit is the most important bottom line”.

In fine, will the Maharlika make more money for the government, that is, we the people, than the present investment portfolios and guaranteed earnings of the peoples’ banks from where it shall be capitalized? What specifically is the earnings

TORONTO, Canada—The Chinese diaspora has been caught in the crossfire of Ottawa’s row with Beijing over its alleged meddling in Canada’s affairs—facing both intimidation from Chinese operatives and rising stigmatization.

And each new spat between their ancestral home and adoptive country—the latest being tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats in May— brings additional stress for the community.

Many people in Toronto’s historic Chinatown, where Canada’s maple leaf symbol can be seen on Chinese-language signs posted above busy stores and food marts, appeared uneasy to speak on the record about recent racism and threats.

Allegations of harassment have been described by rights activists and Canada’s ethnic minorities, and documented by Amnesty International in recent years.

Some have accused Chinese undercover agents or proxies of intimidating Chinese Canadians by vowing retribution against their relatives back home.

“What they do is they use family ties to China or Hong Kong to threaten you,” Cheuk Kwan, co-chair of the Toronto Association

and growth strategy of the proposed Maharlika Investment Fund?

There is no innovative investment strategy other than the usual equities, when in truth Landbank and DBP are already doing these, along with the pension funds of GSIS and SSS which cannot subsist on mere contributions alone, unless grown through proper investments.

Till now, our economic managers have yet to properly explain in several hearings what exactly Maharlika will be about.

A basta, gusto ni Presidente?

And Senator Robinhood tells us, bow na lang tayo!

***

Yet from Malacanang, two recent pronouncements should be welcomed:

First, the President said he is seriously considering pre-inspection services of agricultural products from place of origin.

Government hired Societe de Surveillance Generale or SGS, a Swiss firm, in the last years of the Cory Aquino administration, precisely to minimize technical smuggling and undervaluation, but this was scuttled during the Erap administration, upon the advice of his Customs officials.

While the pre-inspection services are not cheap, they work, and in the long-run, government revenues from Customs duties and VAT are higher.

And quality and other specifications, as in the case of agricultural imports, are more assured.

When this writer was appointed to the NFA, one of the first things we did was to get SGS to do pre-inspection of government rice imports, instead of a relatively obscure Thai service which was utilized by my predecessor.

There are other certifiably reliable firms such as Omni of Japan, or Bureau Veritas of France.

But now that the rice tarrification law has removed government importation and left the same to the private sector, one recurring problem is undervaluation, where 5 or 10 percent premium rice is classified as 15-20-25 percent, and Customs examiners would know no better.

Thus, the rice competitiveness enhancement fund created by the RTL becomes much lower. ***

Another welcome news is the president’s call upon Congress to pass the National Land Use bill into law, to ensure cohesion in the zoning ordinances of LGUs with a comprehensive national plan.

Pres. Marcos wants a “whole of government approach” to land use, making proper use of environmental considerations and balanced economic utilization of our land resources.

We hope he will also certify its urgent passage.

This piece of legislation has been stymied since the Cory Aquino administration and beyond, by the landowners and realty developers who have managed to do their own “regulatory capture” of legislation.

High public trust in the police

YOU would think that given seemingly endless news reports of the involvement of certain police personnel in shady activities, including kotong (extortion) and drug trafficking, the public would lose their trust and confidence in the Philippine National Police as an institution.

But the results of the latest Tugon ng Masa Survey conducted by OCTA Research revealed that Filipinos continue to trust the PNP despite the controversies involving the organization.

In the poll conducted in late March, eight out of 10 Filipinos, or 80 percent of respondents nationwide, said they continue to trust the PNP while only five percent said they don’t trust the organization. Fifteen percent of Filipinos said they are ambivalent over the trustworthiness of the police force.

The police force registered the lowest

trust rating in the National Capital Region at 67 percent. Is that because Metro Manila residents are able to get more news about shenanigans by police scalawags from both traditional and social media?

On the other hand, Visayas and Mindanao respondents showed more trust in the PNP at 89 percent. In Bicol, respondents showed an overwhelming trust in the PNP with 100 percent of respondents saying they believe in the organization.

In Central Luzon, 50 percent of respondents said they trust the police while 43 per-

cent said they were unsure whether to trust the PNP.

Eight out of 10 respondents nationwide said that they were satisfied with the performance of the PNP, 6 percent said they were dissatisfied, and 15 percent said they were unsure whether to trust the police.

When asked if they saw any improvement in peace and order, 41 percent of respondents said yes, 9 percent said the situation has worsened, while 48 percent said there was no change at all.

The over-all positive image of the PNP among Filipinos will definitely work in favor of the new top cop, General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr.

As PNP chief, Acorda has been given clear marching orders by President Marcos Jr.

During the change of command ceremony late last month, the Chief Executive told the police chief: “Make your presence felt in the streets – make them safer. Defend our democratic institutions, our cherished ideals.”

He also instructed the top cop to “protect the people, especially the weak, the vulnerable...always be open to public scrutiny, and practice restraint and maximum tolerance in the face of harsh criticism.”

A tall order, perhaps, for the police chief who retires in December, but realizable if he sets his mind to it and is able to rally the entire institution behind his reform program.

The Cervical Cancer Elimination Movement

CERVICAL cancer is killing about 11 Filipino women every day, according to the World Health Organization.

Every two hours, cervical cancer will kill a mother, a wife, a daughter, or a friend.

According to data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), next to breast cancer, “cervical cancer ranks as the 2nd most frequent cancer among women in Philippines and the 2nd most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age.”

The data also shows global mortality statistics have increased and likely to continue growing with 90 percent of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries because their female population has poor access to early detection, screening, and precancer and cancer treatment.

Thanks to innovative developments in cancer treatments, “Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and successfully treatable forms of cancer, if it is detected and diagnosed early, and managed effectively.”

It is in these circumstances that the country’s cancer stakeholders have united to launch the Cervical Cancer Elimination Movement (CCEM) to push for the nationwide execution of the World Health Organization Global Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer released in 2020 to which the Philippines has signed on to implement.

The new advocacy was launched May 25 during the hybrid event organized by the Stratbase ADR Institute in partnership with Jhpiego Philppines, Cancer Coalition of the Philippines, and UHC Watch.

The strategy has a 3-pillar “90-70-90” approach that aims to accelerate the prevention, screening, and management of cervical cancer thru the full vaccination of 90 percent girls with Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine by 15 years old; 70 percent of women screened with a high-performance test by the age of 35, and again, by the age of 45; 90 percent of women with pre-cancerous lesions treated early, and 90 percent of women with invasive cancer receive treatment.

Stratbase ADRi President Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit highlighted the importance of partnerships, advocacy, communication, and the role of civil society, women’s groups, non-government organizations, and local networks to the successful uptake of

health services at the community level.

“Effective advocacy and communication strategies can overcome the many challenges that impede access to and use of cervical cancer prevention and care services, if culturally relevant and contextspecific content is produced. Such strategies should reflect national policy and be integrated into all levels of the health system,” Manhit said.

Dr. Efren Domingo, President of the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society said, “The utility of the cervical cancer screening program unfortunately is low still in this country. And there is a need to increase the budget as well as to convince the government to put in personnel as well instrumentations necessary to achieve the goal.”

Manager of Jhpiego Philippines said that “that cervical cancer is caused by a virus and that virus affecting our body can be prevented, just like what we have done with COVID-19 virus.”

“Let’s not be caught with the hype of this month of May (Cervical Cancer Month) celebration but rather, let’s take, let’s look at this as a continuing approach, or actions that we need to do.”

“We have a long way to go so in terms of vaccination, in terms of vaccination, in terms of women who are screened … If this country wants to move towards cervical cancer elimination, we have to have good data… be systematic on how we are going to move forward this vision to have cervical cancer eliminated in the Philippines,” Magnata said.

WHO Country Representative, Dr. Rui Paulo De Jesus for his part said that “deaths are unnecessary because there is compelling evidence that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer if this is detected early and managed effectively.”

“It is important to introduce vaccination early and the target should really be to include it in the community as well as in the school venues,” Domingo said.

Dr. Jan Aura Laurelle Llavado, DOH Cancer Control & Mental Health Division Division Chief pointed out that going to 2022 the Philippines “really stumbled with our vaccination rates” A key factor that she identified is that though there is budget for treatment and management, there is no budget for screening or even training for screening.

“One of the things that we should really communicate with our legislators, (is) that if you give us budget, give us budget for the entire continuum of care,” Llavado said.

Dr. Ingrid Magnata, Country Program

Chinese diaspora bears brunt of Canada-China tensions

for Democracy in China, told AFP recently.

Kwan, clad in a black leather jacket, said this includes “death threats, verbal intimidation, or something as simple as saying: ‘We know where your parents live.’”

Dilnur Anwar, a Uyghur who fled persecution in China and moved to Canada in 2019, has experienced such calls firsthand for years —on an almost daily basis.

“I blocked the (phone) numbers but it doesn’t change anything because they call all the time using other numbers,” said the woman, who now lives in Montreal.

“Sometimes I’m asked to come to the embassy, sometimes it’s an automated message,” she explained.

“I’m very worried because I haven’t heard from my family in six years.”

‘We have lived in fear’

Ottawa and Beijing have been at loggerheads since 2018, when a Huawei executive was arrested on a US warrant in Vancouver and two Canadian nationals were detained in China in apparent retaliation.

Then there was the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese “spy balloons” over North America, clandestine Chinese police stations

A top Canadian official also concluded that China sought to interfere in Canada’s 2019 and 2021 elections

discovered in Canadian cities and allegations of Beijing’s interference in Canada’s elections.

Canada’s Chinese immigrants and their descendants often endure extra scrutiny amid such controversies.

“We will always be deemed to be from China, even though many of us have no connections with China,” lamented Amy Go, co-founder of the Chinese Canadian National Council for Social Justice.

“In the past, we have lived in fear,” several dozen Chinese-Canadian associations wrote in an open letter recalling discrimination faced by early Chinese immigrants to North America.

“Today, let’s not let it happen again.”

“In recent years, the social pressure exerted on members of our community is such that it is difficult to remain insensitive to it,” they continued, pointing to diplomatic tensions that “are now having a direct impact on our community.” The first immigrants from China settled in Canada more than 200 years ago. Several waves followed, notably at the end of the 19th century to help build Canada’s transcontinental railway.

The Canadian Pacific Railroad united a nascent country, but at a severe cost:

Hundreds of Chinese workers died from accidents, winter cold, illness and malnutrition.

Today nearly 1.7 million Canadians, almost five percent of the population, trace their roots to China, census figures show.

‘Tip of the iceberg’

There is an urgent need for Ottawa to act to

“The WHO Philippines reaffirms its commitment to the Philippine government, through the Department of Health on cancer prevention and control. Our team will continue to provide evidence-based technical guidance to implement strategic actions to reduce the cancer burden in the country,”

Dr. Fatima Gimenez, President of Pediatric Infectious Disease Society shared findings of their survey showing vaccine hesitancy because of cost and fear and emphasized the need to work on acceptance and understanding to reach the grassroots level.

The key message of this advocacy is that no one has to die of cervical cancer for the simple reason that vaccines are available. Investing on HPV vaccines is more cost effective that paying for treatments. Something legislators should keep in mind when they take up the budget for the Cancer Assistance Fund for 2023.

stem a recent rise in racism, many members of the community believe.

It is also important that the government “ensure that Canadians, but also newcomers, are not interviewed (by Chinese agents) or potentially exposed to risks or threats from foreign countries,” said Go.

Ottawa has been gripped of late by revelations that a Canadian MP, Michael Chong, and his relatives in Hong Kong were targeted by Beijing for sanctions over his strong criticisms of China.

On Tuesday, a top Canadian official also concluded that China sought to interfere in Canada’s 2019 and 2021 elections.

Beijing has rejected both accusations as “groundless slander and defamation,” and warned Ottawa against seeking to “sabotage” relations with its second-largest trading partner.

Meanwhile, intimidation like that faced by Anwar, the Uyghur woman in Montreal, might be more extensive than realized, the Toronto association’s Kwan said.

This sort of behavior by China is only “the tip of the iceberg,” he suggested. “We don’t see 90 percent of the iceberg.” AFP

A tall order, perhaps, for the police chief who retires in December, but realizable if he sets his mind to it and is able to rally the entire institution behind his reform program

The key message of this advocacy is that no one has to die of cervical cancer for the simple reason that vaccines are available

IN BRIEF

Barbers slams ‘fake’ police promotion system

SURIGAO del Norte Rep.Robert Ace Barbers on Sunday expressed full support with National Police Commission vice chairperson Atty. Alberto Bernardo on the latter’s findings that the Philippine National Police (PNP) system of promotion and performance rating of anti-drug police operatives is seriously flawed.

The PNP promotion rating is said to be geared toward the number of arrests and seizures, leading to staged, fake, and fabricated “accomplishments” to the detriment of innocent people who languish in jail with trumped-up charges.

“Imagine, based on these fake accomplishments, the officers kept on being promoted until they are high up in the ladder and can control and influence the organization. They have become so accustomed to their illegal activities that they have become a big part of the whole drug syndicate. The promotion is just one part, the worst part is the reward, monetary as well as “saving” a huge chunk of the drug haul, as another form of rewarding themselves. This drug haul is called savings and ends up being recycled back in the streets,” he said. Rio N. Araja

Solon hits NGCP on delayed project fees

ANAKALUSUGAN party-list Rep. Ray Reyes on Sunday hit the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) after a recent Senate hearing that revealed that it had been charging consumers for its delayed projects.

NGCP assistant vice president Cynthia Alabanza, during the Senate inquiry, said NGCP had been charging consumers for projects that are yet to be completed.

“Charging customers for a project that has not been completed should be considered a criminal act by NGCP,” Reyes lamented. “That is not just that the NGCP continues to earn while the people have to bear the brunt of its delayed projects.” Rio N. Araja

SM Bataan eyeing to hire up to 2,000 workers

SM CITY Bataan said it is currently looking for 1,500 to 2,000 workers preferably residents, Jhoana Gatdula, assistant mall manager said.

“We hope to contribute to Bataan’s robust economy by providing jobs to residents here,” she said. Gatdula also said SM Malls is very happy for the overwhelming support of Bataan and Balanga City leaders led by Gov. Joet Garcia and City Mayor Francis Garcia.

SM Mall recently held a blessing and inauguration of the mall on May 18. Vice Gov. Cris Garcia, Bataan 2nd District Rep. Abet Garcia, Bataan 3rd District Rep. Gila Garcia, and City Vice Mayor Vianca Venzon-Gozon were present at the event. Butch Gunio

Kuwait probes Pinoy bikers’ road mishap

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Department of Foreign Affairs

(DFA) on Sunday said the Kuwaiti government is now investigating the driver of the SUV that plowed into a group of Filipino bikers after the suspect has already surrendered to the authorities.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said the driver may face charges if proven that he or she was recklessly driving at the time of the accident involving around 50 Pinoy bikers.

“The driver has surrendered. It is still unclear what was said but we think he or she is Kuwaiti. The person voluntarily surrendered to the police, so the Kuwaiti government is investigating and is reviewing the films of the accident,” De Vega said.

The DFA official said that the SUV swerved and hit the group of bikers who were reportedly on the bike lane.

Pimentel: Gov’t needs tougher PNP watchdog

By Rio N. Araja

THE Philippines needs a new “hard-hitting independent watchdog” against rampant police corruption and misconduct, Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel on Sunday said.

“The illegal drug trade in particular is clearly having a monstrous corruptive influence on police officers, and we must counteract this,” he said. “Our sense is, we need a tougher watchdog that can swiftly carry out administrative and criminal investigations of police wrongdoing without fear or favor.”

Pimentel is the vice chairperson of

the good government and public accountability committee.

Recent House and Senate inquiries have put a spotlight on the alleged complicity of police officers in drug trafficking, including the theft of confiscated shabu supplies that are sold for cash and recycled back into the market.

At least 49 senior and junior officers,

Police buy-bust yields P25.8m in illegal drugs

including a general and five colonels, have been implicated in the alleged whitewash of unlawful and unethical police actions during a controversial P6.7-billion shabu bust in Manila.

Pimentel said Congress must pass new legislation that would totally detach the Internal Affairs Service from the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“We should separate the IAS from the PNP, and put the service directly under the control of the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government,” he said.

“This way, the IAS can forcefully and freely operate without getting swayed by any consideration of the officers involved,” he noted.

AID FOR BOCAUE RESIDENTS.

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva led the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers  (TUPAD) for more than 2,000 residents of Bocaue, Bulacan on Sunday. The payout coincides with the commemoration of the third death anniversary of Senator Villanueva’s

AGENTS of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) seized P25.8 million worth of shabu from two high-value targets in a buy-bust in Caloocan City over the weekend.

In a report on Sunday, NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Edgar Alan Okubo said suspects Edgardo Vargas, 42, and Lenard Buenaventura, 20, were arrested in Barangay 160 by combined teams from the Caloocan City and Valenzuela City police stations and 3rd Mobile Force Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion.

The suspects yielded 3,800 grams of shabu and a .32 caliber with live ammunition.

“Patuloy lang tayo sa mga pinaigting na operasyon laban sa iligal na droga at iba pang krimen sa Metro Manila. Pagtutulungan po ng bawat kapulisan na mapanatiling tahimik at ligtas ang ating rehiyon sa anumang oras at pagkakataon (We will continue with intensified operations against illegal drugs and other crimes in Metro Manila. The police force will always try to keep our region quiet and safe at all times),” Okubo said in a statement.

In Navotas City, agents of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested three suspects for selling suspected smuggled seafood products worth P1.4 million.

Cashiers Alma Aden, 47, and Cheryl Elizalde, 38; and 22-year-old delivery staff Tito Ybañez Jr. were caught in the act of selling “pampano” but upon verification, the suspects failed to show pertinent documents authorizing them to sell, according to another statement from CIDG chief Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr.

PhilHealth chief urges public to register, avail of ‘Konsulta Package’

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

PHILIPPINE Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) president and CEO

Emmanuel R. Ledesma, Jr. has called on Filipinos to register and avail of the PhilHealth Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama or “Konsulta Package.”

The PhilHealth Konsulta Package includes targeted health risk screening

and assessment, initial and follow-up consultations, standard laboratory tests and 21 essential drugs and medicines including anti-hypertensives listed in the Philippine National Formulary such as enalapril, metoprolol, amlodipine, hydrochlorothiazide and losartan.

All PhilHealth members are encouraged to register and avail themselves of the Konsulta Package. Registration may

be done through self-registration via the member portal at www.philhealth.gov. ph or at any PhilHealth Local Insurance Offices in their area.

Ledesma also assures that PhilHealth is paying P9,000 for confinements due to hypertension in accredited Levels 1 to 3 hospitals.

Ledesma issued the statements in In observance of Hypertension Awareness

Month this May. PhilHealth has enjoined all Filipinos to be informed about hypertension. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is when the pressure of one’s blood vessels is too high or reaches 140/90 mmHg or higher. Risk factors include older age, genetics, obesity, physical inactivity, high-salt diet, and excessive alcohol intake.

QC mayor cites need to address plastic crisis

By Rio N. Araja

QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte has expressed

the collective hopes and ambitions of cities across the globe to address the plastic waste crisis during the high-level event organized by the French Government and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in Paris, France.

“Let us recognize the power of cities, acknowledge our accomplishments, and empower us with the necessary tools to continue championing the call against plastic pollution. Together, we can forge a future where this is but a distant memory, and our planet thrives in its full glory,” she said.

Belmonte, chosen as the sole representative of local chief executives worldwide, expressed the cities’ call to national leaders to consider their needs in passing the UN Treaty on Plastic Pollu-

tion (Plastic Treaty).

Like Quezon City, other cities are also experiencing the adverse impacts of plastic pollution including flooding from clogged sewers, air quality impacts from burning plastics, and the challenge of managing vast amounts of plastic waste.

To address these problems, Quezon City has initiated significant measures such as prohibiting single-use plastic bags and disposable cutleries, straws, and cups in restaurants and fast food chains for dine-in customers; and banning single-use containers and sachets in hotels.

“While we as cities are proud of our respective achievements, we recognize that we cannot address the plastic waste crisis alone. We need a truly ambitious global plastics treaty that unifies our efforts and sets a high bar for all nations to follow,” Belmonte raised.

Ngayon); Cesar Morales (Remate/Police Files); Danilo Bacolod (Saksi Ngayon); Gina Plenago (Bulgar/Hataw); Bella Gamotea (Balita/News Flash PH);  Teddy Balanza and Jeffrey Gonzalez (TV5); Earlo Bringas (NET 25); and Avito Dalan (Philippine News Agency).

FLAG AND MEMORIAL DAY. The Philippine flag is raised at the Heritage Park in Imus, Cavite on Sunday, May 28, as the country celebrates its 125th Flag Day. American residents visit the graves of their departed loved ones during Memorial Day held on the same day at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial at Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Danny Pata

sister, former Bocaue Mayor Joni Villanueva who passed away in 2020. Lino Santos

Japan firm gets incentives for Subic expansion

By Othel V. Campos

THE Fiscal Incentives Review

Board approved Nidec Corp.’s application for incentives for its P4.2billion expansion project in Subic Bay Freeport in Zambales province on May 26, 2023.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman and administrator Jonathan Tan said the Japanese firm’s project would enjoy incentives including tax holiday, special corporate income tax, duty exemption, VAT exemption on importation and VAT zero rate on local purchase, based on the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises law.

Nidec is a leading Japanese manufacturer of motors, motor parts and industrial equipment. The expansion will raise the company’s production capacity for strain wave gears by an additional 50,000 units per month.

The company is also adding 35,000 square feet to its production area of 3.5 hectares.

The added investments will bring Nidec factories’ combined monthly exports to the US, EU, India, Korea, China and Brazil to 80,000 units.

Nidec’s expansion will also open up at least 400 job opportunities to workers in and around Subic.

Nidec established its first factory in Laguna in 1995 and a second one in Subic in 2019. Nidec Subic invested an additional $250 million to produce industrial reducer gears that generated 600 additional jobs.

The company started out from manufacturing spindle motors and related products and expanded its manufacturing activities to cover more high-tech gear products used in the aerospace, robotics and solar tracking industries.

Subsidiary and sister company Nidec Shimpo, one of the biggest global innovators for precision gearing solutions, started mass producing robotic components developed in Japan and in the Philippines. Developers described the components as extremely silent with zero backlash and smooth rotation.

165-MW Casecnan plant awarded to First Gen unit

By Alena Mae S. Flores

STATE-RUN Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. issued a notice of award to First Gen Corp.’s Fresh River Lakes Corp. as the winning bidder for the 165-megawatt Casecnan hydroelectric power plant.

PSALM president Dennis dela Serna said the Fresh River had passed the post-qualification process, which was conducted to verify the accuracy and authenticity of the eligibility documents submitted.

“We sent the NOA Wednesday or Thursday,” Dela Serna said, adding that they expected Fresh River to submit its

payment by the end of the year.

Fresh River offered the highest bid amounting to $526 million for CHEPP.

“The successful privatization of this crucial power plant represents a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen energy security. With the private sector injecting the necessary efficiency and capital for energy expansion, we can ensure a reliable and resilient energy sector for our nation’s future,” Energy Secretary Raphael Perpetuo Lotilla said earlier.

The winning bid surpassed the minimum offer price for CHEPP, which was determined by the PSALM board to be $227,272,727.28

CHEPP is a run-of-river type of power project with limited impounding facility in Barangay Villarica, Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija.

“The privatization of the Casecnan Hydroelectric Power Plant will ensure that the sector remains competitive so

WESM electricity prices increased in early May

as to reduce prices and increase efficiency,” Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said.

Diokno sits as the chairman of the PSALM board.

“The proceeds from the sale of CHEPP will be used to liquidate the outstanding financial obligations that PSALM had assumed from the National Power Corp. to settle government debt,” Diokno said.

The management of CHEPP was transferred to the government after the conclusion of the build-operate-transfer agreement between California Energy Casecnan Water and Energy Co. Inc. and the National Irrigation Administration on Dec. 11, 2021.

PSALM and NIA share ownership of the plant on a 60-percent and 40-percent arrangement, respectively.

First Gen chairman and chief executive Federico Lopez said power assets like the CHEPP “are very hard to replicate.”

over P200b last year

tional revenues in 2022 with the implementation of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said over the weekend. The figure was 26.3 percent or P42.3 billion higher than the 2021 full year incremental revenue of P160.5 billion. Diokno said the increase in 2022 collections was driven by the “full economic recovery due to lifting of stringent quarantine measures.” Total collections from the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law amounted to P216.5 billion in 2022, 27 percent or P45.5 billion higher than the 2021 collection of P171.0 billion. Collections from Package 1B or the Tax Amnesty Law declined by P3.2 billion or 69.6 percent from P4.6 in 2021 to P1.4 billion in 2022. Collections from Package 2+ or the Sin tax Law amounted to P65.3 billion in 2022, 23 percent or P12.4 billion higher than the 2021 collection of P52.9 billion. Revenue losses from the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises or CREATE law reached P80.4 billion in 2022, an increase of 18 percent or P12.4 billion from the actual impact in 2021 of P68.0 billion. Julito G. Rada

PLDT Enterprise wins gold at Stevie Awards

PLDT Enterprise recently bagged a coveted gold award on innovation in business-to-business events at the 2023 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards. The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards are the only business awards program to recognize innovation in the workplace in all 29 nations of the Asia-Pacific region.

“We are truly honored to be recognized by the 2023 Asia-Pacific Stevies as among the world’s best. PLDT Enterprise will continue to innovate, evolve, and adapt to meet the ever-changing needs of our customers. We are optimistic that through our relevant offerings and services, including our annual PH Digicon event, we will stay ahead of the curve and provide exceptional value to Philippine businesses,” said PLDT and Smart first vice president and head of enterprise and international business groups Mitch Locsin, who was also feted with a Silver Stevie under the Thought Leader of The Year category.

Republicans, Biden reach debt deal

PRESIDENT Joe Biden and Republican leader Kevin McCarthy announced a deal Saturday to raise the debt ceiling, dragging the United States back from the precipice of default with only a few days to spare.

Congress will vote on the deal to extend the government’s borrowing authority on Wednesday, just shy of the June 5 “X-date” when the Treasury estimates the government will no longer be able to pay its bills, plunging the world’s biggest economy into turmoil.

Biden said in a statement that the deal was “good news for the American people, because it prevents what could have been a catastrophic default and would have led to an economic recession, retirement accounts devastated, and millions of jobs lost.”

McCarthy, who spoke with Biden on

Erdogan seeks third decade of rule

TURKEY voted Sunday in a historic runoff that President Recep Tayyip Erdogan enters as the firm favorite to extend two decades of his Islamic-rooted rule to 2028.

The NATO member’s longest-serving leader defied critics and doubters by emerging with a comfortable lead against his secular challenger Kemal Kilicdaroglu in the first round on May 14.

The vote was nonetheless the toughest the 69-year-old has faced in one of Turkey’s most transformative eras since its creation as a post-Ottoman republic 100 years ago.

Kilicdaroglu cobbled together a powerful coalition of Erdogan’s disenchanted former allies with secular nationalists and religious conservatives.

Opposition supporters viewed it as a do-or-die chance to save Turkey from being turned into an autocracy by a leader whose consolidation of power rivals that of Ottoman sultans.

But Erdogan still managed to come within a fraction of a percentage point of winning outright in the first round.

His success came in the face of one of the world’s worst costof-living crises, with almost every opinion poll predicting his defeat.

Waiting outside an Istanbul polling station on Sunday, 93-yearold Ozer Atayolu told AFP he always arrived first to vote “because I believe in democracy and my responsibility as a citizen.”

“I feel like a child having fun,” the retired textile engineer said.

Kilicdaroglu tried his best to keep his disappointed supporters’ spirits up. AFP

Saturday to close the deal, said there was still “a lot of work to do, but I believe this is an agreement in principle that’s worthy of the American people.”

The Republican speaker added he would consult again with the president on Sunday and oversee final drafting of the bill, and the House would “then be voting on it on Wednesday.” Raising the debt ceiling—a legal maneuver that takes place most years without drama—allows the government to keep borrowing money and remain solvent.

This year, Republicans demanded deep

Over 1,500 arrested at climate protest

MORE than 1,500 people were arrested during a protest by the Extinction Rebellion climate group in The Hague on Saturday, Dutch police said.

Activists blocked a section of a motorway during the afternoon in protest against Dutch fossil fuel subsidies.

Police said they had used water cannons to disperse activists blocking a major road in the city, and arrested “a total of 1,579 people... 40 of whom will be prosecuted” on charges including vandalism.

One of the activists bit a policeman during his arrest, police said.

According to the Extinction Rebellion, some 7,000 people gathered to join the demonstration.

Anticipating the water cannon, some wore swimsuits or carried umbrellas as they sat in protest across the A12 motorway, holding banners and signs.

The protest marks the seventh organized by Extinction Rebellion in the same section of motorway at The Hague, close to the parliament and main ministry buildings.

But Saturday saw the highest number of people arrested at a protest yet, according to Dutch news agency ANP.

“We’re going to stay here until they drag us away,” said postgraduate student Anne Kerevers, 31.

“Climate change is an unfolding crisis and we know the cause and it’s still being subsidized by our government and it needs to stop,” she told AFP.

Several Dutch celebrities were among the protesters, including actor Carice van Houten, best known for her role as Melisandre in the hit TV

“Game of Thrones.” AFP

spending cuts— largely in social spending for the poor—in return for raising the debt ceiling, saying the time had come for bitter medicine to address the country’s mammoth $31 trillion debt.

Biden argued that he would not negotiate over spending issues as a condition for raising the debt ceiling, accusing the Republicans of taking the economy hostage. Both sides have now somewhat climbed down.

According to a source familiar with the negotiations, the deal includes freeing up the debt ceiling for two

years, meaning there will be no need for negotiations in 2024, when the presidential election will be in full swing.

The big cuts Republicans wanted are not there, though non-defense spending will remain effectively flat next year, and only rise nominally in 2025, the source said.

There will also be new rules for accessing certain federal assistance programs, though the source said the deal protected Biden’s signature Inflation Reduction Act and student debt relief plan. AFP

SNAP’S AWARDS. SN Aboitiz Power Group, a joint venture of Scatec of Norway and Aboitiz Power Corp., celebrates winning two awards at the Nordic Sustainability Awards on May 24, 2023 at the Makati Diamond Residences. SNAP was recognized as the runners-up for Sustainability Business Partner of the Year and CSR Business Partner of the Year, underscoring its commitment to sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility as they transform energy for a better world. Receiving the awards are SNAP’s team members alongside SN Aboitiz Power president and chief executive Joseph Yu (center) and Aboitiz Group chief sustainability and reputation officer Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar (third from the right) .

Stocks expected to rise on US debt deal

By Jenniffer B. Austria

SHARE prices are expected to bounce back this week after last week’s dismal performance if talks over the United State’s debt limit is finalized this week.

US President Joe Biden and Republican legislators reached an agreement in principle to raise the US debt ceiling and thereby avoid catastrophic default,

NOTICE OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual meeting of shareholders of FIRST METRO PHILIPPINE EQUITY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND, INC. (FIRST METROETF) will be conducted on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon via zoom webinar.

AGENDA

US media reported Saturday.

US Bureau of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said over the weekend June 5 is the new date when the US government could start to default on its debts if the ceiling is not raised.

“If the two camps of the US government strike a deal next week, then it is expected to spur positive sentiment

NOTICE OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING

1. Call to Order

2. Certification of Notice and Quorum

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on June 30, 2022

4. Annual Report

5. Ratification of Corporate Acts

6. Election of the Members of the Board of Directors

7. Appointment of External Auditor

8. Adjournment

Stockholders of record as of May 19, 2023 shall be entitled to vote at the meeting.

Date signed: May 22, 2023

Corporate Secretary

NOTICE OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual meeting of shareholders of FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN PHILIPPINE INDEX FUND, INC. (SALPHIN) will be conducted on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon via zoom webinar.

AGENDA

which in turn may lead to a bounce back for the local bourse. If not, however, the local market may extend its decline,” Philstocks research manager Japhet Tantiangco said.

The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index fell 134 points last week to close at 6,530 amid concerns over the lack of a deal on the US debt

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual meeting of shareholders of FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. (SALDBF) will be conducted on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon via zoom webinar. AGENDA

1. Call to Order

2. Certification of Notice and Quorum

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on June 29, 2022

4. Annual Report to the Stockholders

5. Ratification of all Acts and Resolutions of the Board of Directors, Management and All Committees for the fiscal year 2022, including the following: a. Renewal of the Management Distribution Agreement

6. Election of the Members of the Board of Directors for the year 2023-2024

7. Appointment of External Auditor for the year 2023

8. Other Matters

9. Adjournment Stockholders of record as of May 18, 2023 shall be entitled to vote at the meeting.

Date signed: May 22, 2023

NOTICE

Corporate Secretary

OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual meeting of shareholders of FIRST METRO CONSUMER FUND, INC. (FMCF) will be conducted on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon via zoom webinar.

AGENDA

1. Call to Order

2. Certification of Notice and Quorum

3. Approval of the Minutes of the previous AnnualStockholders’ Meeting held on June 29, 2022

4. Annual Report to the stockholders

5. Ratification of Corporate Acts

6. Election of the Members of the Board of Directors

7. Appointment of External Auditor

8. Adjournment Stockholders of record as of May 18, 2023 shall be entitled to vote at the meeting.

Date signed: May 22, 2023

I . Call to Order

2. Certification of Notice and Quorum

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on June 29, 2022

4. Annual Report to the Stockholders

5. Ratification of all Acts and Resolutions of the Board of Directors, Management and All Committees for the fiscal year 2022, including the following:

a. Renewal of the Management Distribution Agreement

6. Election of the Members of the Board of Directors for the year 2023-2024

7. Appointment of External Auditor for the year 2023

8. Other Matters

9. Adjournment Stockholders of record as of May 18, 2023 shall be entitled to vote at the meeting.

Date signed: May 22, 2023

Corporate Secretary

Corporate Secretary

shareholders of FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN BALANCED FUND, INC. (SALBF) will be conducted on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon via zoom webinar.

I. Call to Order

AGENDA

2. Certification of Notice and Quorum

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on June 29, 2022

4. Annual Report to the Stockholders

5. Ratification of all Acts and Resolutions of the Board of Directors, Management and All Committees for the fiscal year 2022, including the following:

ceiling negotiations.

“For now, we see the local bourse’s support at 6,400. Resistance is seen at 6,600,” Tantiangco said.

Analysts said as overseas developments would likely take much of investors attention this week, traders would likely stay on the sidelines until the negotiations on US debt ceiling is finalized. With AFP

NOTICE OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’

MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual meeting of shareholders of FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN F.O.C.C.U.S. DYNAMIC FUND, INC. (SALFOCCUS) will be conducted on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon via zoom webinar. AGENDA

1. Call to Order

2. Certification of Notice and Quorum

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on June 29, 2022

4. Annual Report to the Stockholders

5. Ratification of all Acts and Resolutions of the Board of Directors, Management and All Committees for the fiscal year 2022, including the following:

a. Renewal of the Management Distribution Agreement

6. Election of the Members of the Board of Directors for the year 2023-2024

7. AppOintment of External Auditor for the year 2023

8. Other Matters

9. Adjournment Stockholders of record as of May 18, 2023 shall be entitled to vote at the meeting.

Date signed: May 22, 2023

NOTICE OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual meeting of shareholders of FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. (SALMMF) will be conducted on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon via zoom webinar.

1. Call to Order

AGENDA

2. Certification of Notice and Quorum

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on June 29, 2022

4. Annual Report to the Stockholders

5. Ratification of all Acts and Resolutions of the Board of Directors, Management and All Committees for the fiscal year 2022, including the following:

a. Renewal of the Management Distribution Agreement.

b. Amendment to the By-Laws as follows: i. Amendment of the By-Laws to align provisions with the Revised Corporation Code and ICA IRR.

6. Election of the Members of the Board of Directors for the year 2023-2024

7. Appointment of External Auditor for the year 2023

8. Other Matters

9. . Adjournment Stockholders of record as of May 18, 2023 shall be entitled to vote at the meeting.

Date signed: May 22, 2023

NOTICE

Corporate Secretary

(SALFIF) will be conducted on Thursday, June 23, 2023 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon via zoom webinar.

1. Call to Order

AGENDA

2. Certification of Notice and Quorum

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on June 29, 2022

4. Annual Report to the Stockholders

5. Ratification of all Acts and Resolutions of the Board of Directors, Management and All Committees for the fiscal year 2022, including the following:

a. Renewal of the Management Distribution Agreement

6. Election of the Members of the Board of Directors for the year 2023-2024

7. Appointment of External Auditor for the year 2023

8. Other Matters

9. Adjournment

Stockholders of record as of May 18, 2023 shall be entitled to vote at the meeting.

Date signed: May 22, 2023

Corporate Secretary

Aboitiz adopts

1.6 hectares of Napocor’s tree planting site

ABOITIZ Construction Inc. signed an agreement with state-run National Power Corp. to adopt 1.6 hectares of planting site in the Makiling-Banahaw Geothermal reservation area for three years in line with the company’s commitment toward environmental sustainability.

Global temperatures to break records in the next five years

GLOBAL temperatures are likely to surge to record levels in the next five years, fueled by heat-trapping greenhouse gases and a naturally occurring El Niño weather pattern, a new update issued by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said.

There is a 66-percent likelihood that the annual average near-surface global temperature between 2023 and 2027 will be more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for at least one year. And there is a 98-percent likelihood that at least one of the next five years, and the five-year period, will be the warmest on record.

“A warming El Niño is expected to develop in the coming months and this will combine with human-induced climate change to push global temperatures into uncharted territory,” said

WMO secretary-general Jukka Petteri Taalas.

“This will have far-reaching repercussions for health, food security, water management and the environment. We need to be prepared,” he said.

El Niño typically increases global temperatures in the year after it develops, in this case, in 2024.

There is a 98-percent chance of at least one in the next five years beating the temperature record set in 2016, when there was an exceptionally strong El Niño.

Arctic warming is disproportionately

high, the report said. Compared to the 1991-2020 average, the temperature anomaly is predicted to be more than three times as large as the global expected anomaly when considering the next five northern hemisphere extended winters.

Predicted rain patterns for the May to September 2023-2027 average, compared to the 1991-2020 average, suggest increased rainfall in the Sahel, northern Europe, Alaska and northern Siberia, and reduced rainfall for this season over the Amazon and parts of Australia, the report said.

Water is becoming increasing scarce in arid and semi-arid parts of Sudan.

In addition to increasing global temperatures, human-induced greenhouse gases are leading to more ocean heating and acidification, sea ice and glacier melt, sea level rise and more extreme weather.

The Paris Agreement sets long-term

goals to guide all nations to substantially reduce global greenhouse gas emissions to limit the global temperature increase in this century to 2°C while pursuing efforts to limit the increase even further to 1.5°C, to avoid or reduce adverse impacts and related losses and damages.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change says climate-related risks for global warming are higher than 1.5 °C but lower than 2 °C.

The new report was released ahead of the World Meteorological Congress on May 22 to June 2, which will discuss how to strengthen weather and climate services to support climate change adaptation.

Priorities for discussion at Congress include the UN’s Early Warnings for All initiative to protect people from increasingly extreme weather and a new Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Infrastructure to inform climate mitigation. UN News

Private companies, under Napocor’s Energy Sector Carbon Sequestration Initiative, are encouraged to participate in the climate change mitigation program by adopting a rehabilitation site based on priority areas for restoration.

Aboitiz Construction has funded Mt. Malaraya Environmental Protection Council Inc. (MMEPCI), a Southern Luzon-based people’s organization, to conduct reforestation activities in the same area. The program will provide livelihood opportunities for community members under MMEPCI for their maintenance and plantation duties in the designated site.

A total of 2,600 native trees will be planted and monitored within the three-year partnership period. A technical working group composed of representatives from Aboitiz Construction, Napocor and MMEPCI will be tasked to monitor the progress of the activities and implement the program based on the agreed reforestation plan.

“Anchored to our purpose of building for business to prosper and communities to thrive, we remain committed to helping enrich and protect our environment and provide jobs for many Filipinos. We also aim to promote environmental awareness among our team members and encourage them to volunteer in our future treeplanting activities,” said Aboitiz Construction executive director Antonio Peñalver.

UST crowned overall college, high school UAAP champion

,

World tourney slots staked in full IRONMAN, 70.3 races

OVER a hundred berths in three IRONMAN World Championships will be up for grabs when the Century Tuna full IRONMAN and the Subic IRONMAN 70.3 races are held on June 11 at the country’s premier triathlon hub in Subic Bay. The organizing The IRONMAN Group/Sunrise Events, Inc. said 50 slots will be disputed for the IM world meet in Nice, France and another 25 seats will be staked in the Kona, Hawaii championship for the top finishers in the grueling 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42km run (full IRONMAN) race. Thirty spots for the World Championship in Lahti, Finland, on the other hand, will be there for the taking in the equally challenging 1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21km run (IRONMAN 70.3) battle, paving the way for the most number of world tilt slots ever offered in local IRONMAN races.

“This only guarantees a spirited, furious duel in various age group categories for slots in these World Championships, the ultimate goal of each endurance racer,” said The IRONMAN Group/SEI general manager Princess Galura. The Nice, France world tilt will be staged on Sept. 10 while the Kona, Hawaii event is set on Oct. 14. The 70.3 championship in Finland will be held on Aug. 26-27 under the Nordic midnight sun.

Meanwhile, registration is ongoing. For listup, visit www.ironman.com/ ironmanphilippines or www.ironman.com/ im703-subicbay.

FOR the fifth straight season, University of Santo Tomas emerged as the overall champion in both the collegiate and high school divisions of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines during the closing ceremony of the league’s 85th season on Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. divisions. We take great pride in our tradition of producing excellent and world-class student-athletes," said UST's representative to the Board of Managing Directors Gigi Kamus.

from Far Eastern University-Diliman were crowned the Athletes of the Year for the high school division.

Phillips (men's basketball), and Patrick King Cruz (men's individual poomsae),

UST amassed 336 points in the collegiate division and 217 points in the high school division, securing both titles comfortably.

This marks UST's sixth straight overall championship and 46th overall in the seniors' division. Additionally, the school achieved its seventh consecutive juniors title and 22nd overall.

In the collegiate division, the Growling Tigers triumphed in women's 3x3, men's and women's beach volleyball, men's table tennis, women's taekwondo, men's judo, men's tennis, women's athletics, and men's chess.

Meanwhile, the Tiger Cubs dominated the girls' table tennis, boys' taekwondo, girls' beach volleyball, boys' and girls' swimming, boys' and girls' judo, and girls' athletics tournaments.

"At UST, we are thrilled once again to have won the general championships in both the college and high school

World Cup veteran stays

MICHAEL Concio, Jr. and Mhage

Gerriahlou Sebastian downed their respective foes to stay unbeaten and on top after the fifth round of the 2023 Philippine National Juniors and Kiddies Chess Championships in Alicia, Isabela on Sunday.

Concio stopped unheralded Vince Duane Pascual on his tracks, while Sebastian turned back Ruelle Canino to jump to the top in their respective divisions with an unblemished five points each.

A World Cup veteran and an Asian rapid king, Concio, 18, has been living up to his top billing and, if he continues to sustain his magnificent form in the last three rounds, he should complete a successful title defense in this tournament backed by host Mayor and NCFP regional director Atty. Joel Amos Alejandro.

De La Salle University secured second place in the collegiate division with 279 points, while the University of the Philippines completed the top three with 260 points.

In the high school division, De La Salle-Zobel finished second with 139 points, followed by Far Eastern UniversityDiliman with 134 points.

The UAAP assigns 15 points for a championship, 12 points for second place, 10 points for third place, and continues decreasing down to one point for the eighth-place finisher.

Xiandi Chua from La Salle and Nickole Dela Cruz from UP were named Athletes of the Year in the collegiate division. Kent Jardin from Adamson and Johnrey Pasaol

Chua claimed six gold medals, one silver medal, and one bronze medal during the women's swimming championships, setting four league records. She also won gold in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games' 200m backstroke event, setting a new games record with a time of 2:13.20.

Dela Cruz led UP to the softball finals and was named the tournament MVP. She also received awards for Best Slugger, Best Hitter, and Most Runs Batted In. She was part of the RP Blu Girls pool for the 2023 Asian Women's Softball Championship.

Jardin guided Adamson High School to its first boys' athletics crown in 24 years, winning all seven of his events.

Pasaol powered FEU-D to the boys' basketball crown. He was selected for the Mythical Team in 5-on-5 basketball and won the MVP award in the 3x3 tournament.

The league also honored the 73 student-athletes who represented the country in the SEA Games.

Gold medalists Adamson's Jerom Lastimosa (men's basketball), La Salle's Chua (women's swimming), Michael

NU's Kurt Barbosa (men's kyorugi), UE's Mecca Cortizano (women's team obstacle race), UP's Erika Burgos (mixed relay aquathlon), and UST's Nicole Labayne and Aidaine Laxa (team female poomsae) were among the UAAP's representatives in Team Philippines. Each of the eight member schools also recognized their top athlete-scholars.

Celebrated were Adamson's Trisha Tubu (women's volleyball), Ateneo's Marjorie Manguiat (women's swimming), La Salle's Chua (women's swimming), FEU's Gio Pabualan (men's football), NU's Jessica Carcueva (women's lawn tennis), UE's Jewel Rafael (women's judo), UP's John Viron Ferrer (men's judo), and UST's Djulia Brion (women's swimming).

For the high school division, Adamson's Johnray Abayon (boys' basketball), Ateneo's Ivo Enot (boys' swimming), DLSZ's Juliana Yamson (girls' table tennis), FEU-D's Mhage Sebastian (girls' chess), NUNS' Alphecca Gonzales (girls' chess), and UE's Alexza Gatdula (girls' judo) were the athletescholars.

Two weeks into the blue-ribbon race, backed by are title partner Century Tuna, global premier partners Vinfast, Active, Gatorade, Hoka, Roka, Breitling Co., Fulgaz, Hyperice, Qatar Airways, Red Bull, Santini and Wahoo, the full IRONMAN PH has drawn over 500 bets, including 89 in the 45-49 age group division. Other age categories (male and female) are 18-24, 2529, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 50-54, 55-59, 6064, 65-69, 70-74 and 75-and-above.

A banner field is also expected int the Subic IRONMAN 70.3 race with the premier 40-44 age bracket luring over a hundred bets. Other age category titles to be disputed in both the male and female divisions are 18-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 5054, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74 and 75-andabove.

Spicing up the event is the IM 70.3 relay race, which has so far attracted over 50 teams.

While Czech Petr Lukosz, who topped the full IRONMAN PH last year, remains out of the early roster of entries, Filipina champion Ines Santiago is back, keen on her retaining the crown she claimed in wire-to-wire fashion.

Backing the events are Asia supplier partners Always Advancing, Ekoi and Nirvana; media partners Outside and Sportgraf.com; venue host Subic Bay, and Lightwater, NLEX/SCTEX, 2Go and Prudential Guarantee.

California Academy, Naga College dispute Girls’ Volley title

CALIFORNIA Academy and Naga

College Foundation pulled off thrilling upsets against perennial contenders National U-Nazareth School and Bacolod

Tay Tung to arrange a finals duel in the 2023 Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League Saturday at the San Andres Gym.

27 points, was not to be left behind in catching a big fish in Bacolod en route to the Last Dance of the 16-team GVIL also powered by Mikasa, Team Rebel Sports, Toby’s Sports, Genius Sports and SM Tickets.

Both squads essayed reverse sweeps over their fancied rivals as California stunned NU-NS, 23-25, 25-23, 25-22, 27-25, while Naga claimed the scalp of Bacolod Tay Tung High School, 11-25, 2523, 25-23, 25-23, in the gigantic Final Four clash among unbeaten teams.

California Academy and Naga will slug it out in the one-game championship next Saturday for all the marbles of the historic GVIL backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Potato Corner, Peri-Peri and R&B Tea with the City of Manila as government cooperation partner.

Casiey Dongallo (27) and Gelaica Gajero (24) combined for 51 points as the young Antipolo-based California spikers slayed the giant in no less than the reigning UAAP juniors champion.

Jenalyn Umayam chipped in 10 points while Kizzie Madriago orchestrated the show with 21 sets for California, which scored three straight wins against the Lady

The Dasmarinas resident took the crown last year after outlasting childhood buddy and fellow International Master Daniel Quizon via tiebreaker.

For the 18-year-old Sebastian, she may have overcome the biggest hurdle in her title bid with that clinical victory over the secondseeded Canino, a runner-up in this same tournament three years ago.

In kiddies action, Gllasea Ann Hilario and Daniella Bianca Cruz halved the point to continue to share the lead in the girls’ section with four points apiece while Phil Martin Casiguran and Jaycol Sodela, who hurdled Pat Ferdoff Macabulos and Justin Jed Ortillo, respectively, to stay at the helm in the boys’ bracket with 4.5 points each.

KAYA FC Iloilo finally captured the title that has eluded them the past six years.

In a fitting end to a remarkable season, Kaya trounced Stallion Laguna FC, 3-1, on Saturday for its first Philippines Football League crown at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Goals from Tamon Horikoshi, Jhan Melliza, and Jarvey Gayoso pushed Kaya’s total to 55 points on 18 wins, one draw, and three losses, edging Dynamic Herb Cebu, which blew its title hopes when it was held to a goalless draw by Stallion last Tuesday.

“I’m so happy with the championship,” said Kaya’s Japanese coach Yu Hoshide, who has made the country his

Players from the Naga College Foundation, celebrate after beating Bacolod Tay Tung High School. Bullpups highlighted by a stellar comeback in the fourth set from a 21-24 deficit.

“It’s a big win for us. It’s a close match and could have been anybody’s game but the girls stayed calm and in control. This

chessfest Kaya takes PFL crown in style

home in the last decade. “I really appreciated the support from everyone, the fans, supporters we hope they enjoyed this title celebration like we did.”

In a touching moment, Kaya’s players and general manager Paul Tolentino handed the PFL trophy to one of the club’s founders, Chris Hagedorn, at the height of the title celebration. This was a testament to the club’s longevity, stability and ability to build a squad from the ground up. Most of Kaya’s homegrown players have been with the club for more than five years.

Ceres won the first two editions of the PFL, before United City FC took the next two. It’s Kaya’s turn to come out on top in a

Shakey’s GVIL features the best of the best of the Philippines so we’re happy that we’re able to beat the best of UAAP. We’re very proud of that,” said coach Obet Vital. Naga, behind Arah Ellah Panique’s

season where UCFC withdrew just after the year started. Horikoshi broke the deadlock in the 35th minute of the match, but Abraham Placito equalized in the 58th minute with a powerful headaer past Zach Banzon.

Kaya regained the lead in 65th minute with Melliza’s breakaway finish, before the subtitute Gayoso fired the ball past Patrick Deyto five minutes from time.

With 15 goals to his name and another Man of the Match performance against Stallion, Daizo Horikoshi was named the league’s top scorer and Golden Ball awardee while Banzon was adjudged as the Golden Glove awardee as the league’s best goalkeeper.

Panique drew coverage from Sheena Sarie and Nathasza Bombita, who provided 15 and 12 points, respectively, as Naga swung back with guns ablaze after a blowout 11-25 loss in the opening salvo.

“Naka-tsamba na naman. Naunahan kami pero hindi bumigay. Hanggang sa huli, laban talaga. Napakahirap. Puhunan namin dito ‘yung tapang. Sabi ko lang sa kanila, 'wag bibitaw'. Nung nakatabla na kami, bakit ngayon pa kayo bibitaw. Swerte na pumabor sa amin,” said Naga coach Parley Tupaz. Bienne Louise Bansil fired 20 points while Alexia Montoro had 22 for NU-NS and Bacolod, respectively, entering their bronze medal match also on Saturday.

All games of Shakey’s GVIL, in partnership with Athletic Events and Sports Management, Inc., (ACES), will be broadcasted live and on-demand through all social media platforms courtesy of Plus Network with CNN Philippines, Solar Sports and Tap Sports as TV partners.

The Adamson Pep Squad performs during the UAAP closing ceremony Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

SEXUAL

EXPLORING A steamy drama issues of adventurous

bisexual hunk

By Nickie Wang

THE producer of Vivamax’s latest offering Kabayo said that nothing can surpass the film as it is the “sexiest and boldest” content that subscribers can watch on the streaming platform.

The film revolves around Conrad, a man who is a “workhorse” in the office due to the overwhelming workload assigned to him. When he comes home, his wife exhausts him further in bed.

Rico Barrera, an alumnus of Pinoy Big Brother Season 1 , stars in the film as Conrad. Newcomer Julia Victoria, portrays his wife, Laurene.

Laurene’s insatiable sexual appetite fuels her desire for complete dominance in her relationship with Conrad.

Conrad, though attractive and talented, hails from a middle-class

Rico Barrera plays Conrad in Vivamax’s latest offering

background, making him insecure about his ability to satisfy Laurene.

To compensate, he works tirelessly to establish his advertising agency’s success. While he genuinely loves Laurene, Conrad struggles to meet her extreme sexual demands. He feels as if Laurene treats him like a mere workhorse, hence the title Kabayo (Horse).

In his search for solace, Conrad confides in Angelo Ilagan’s character,

Easton, a successful entrepreneur who is renowned for his playboy image but harbors a secret.

Passion, temptation, and revelations intertwine, creating a complex web for these characters to navigate. How will they survive these intricacies?

Directed by Gianfranco Marciano Kabayo also features Angel Castro, Mara Flores, and Ping Medina in supporting roles. Kabayo now streams on Vivamax.

Jodi Sta. Maria returns to Viu via ABS-CBN and GMA’s historic collaboration

By Angelica Villanueva

AWARD-WINNING actress Jodi Sta. Maria is back on Viu with a historic collaboration series from the country’s leading network, GMA, and leading content producer, ABS-CBN

The actress hits GMA Telebabad alongside Sparkle artist Gabbi Garcia, Kapuso leading man Richard Yap, and fellow Kapamilya artist Joshua Garcia with Unbreak My Heart starting tonight.

Shot in the scenic locations of Switzerland, Italy, and the Philippines, the romantic drama is the first project of GMA Network and ABS-CBN Corporation.

For Jodi, the landmark project paved the way to end the network rivalry and opened new doors of opportunities for artists from both media outlets to work together.

“Many years ago, nobody thought, not even in their wildest dreams, that this moment right here would be possible. Back then, ABS-CBN and GMA were rivals, competing for ratings and audience share.

Joshua (left) finds the scenes easier to shoot thanks to Jodi and Gabbi

But now, that has changed,” said Jodi.

“I mean, now we can share artists and talents, and everyone is just given the opportunity to work,” she said. “It’s really more job opportunities for this industry that we have grown to love.”

The actress also emphasized that, at the end of the day, the goal is to provide the audience with good-quality content.

“In addition to us actors and industry members, of course, the ones who will benefit the most from this partnership are our viewers,” added Jodi.

Joining the cast of ‘Unbreak My Heart’ are Joshua Garcia (left) and Gabbi Garcia

Regarding her experience working with her co-stars, Jodi was asked during the media conference about the dynamics of working and performing intimate scenes with a younger actor.

“It helped to have discussions about

Education network nurtures the future of the world

IN the dazzling world of Philippine show business, actors and actresses who value education and successfully complete their degrees serve as aspirational figures. Their achievements inspire and motivate others, leading to abundant and far-reaching rewards.

Some fine examples are Joshua Garcia who balances his hectic schedule while pursuing an entrepreneurship course; award-winning actress Jodi Sta. Maria who graduated with a degree in Psychology; and actress and runwayready Gabbi Garcia who studied Music Business Management.

Actor Richard Yap who holds a business management degree from De La Salle University; Dennis Trillo who has B.A. International Studies degree; Dindong Dantes who graduated with a Business Administration, Major in Marketing Management; and Marian Rivera-Dantes who is also a Psychology graduate, all fall in this category.

The list of stars who finished a degree, even master studies, is definitely a long one, and where the next big stars will come from, we definitely know the soonest. It is safe to say that the possibility of the next big stars might come from PHINMA Education is not nil and is indeed a bright possibility.

This leading education network in the Philippines recently launched a new unified brand for its NCR schools at the #GritToGlory Partners’ Launch, which jumpstarted a campaign that highlights the value of courage and perseverance in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

During the brand launch at Love Events Place, PHINMA Republican College unveiled its new name, PHINMA Saint Jude College Quezon City, alongside PHINMA Saint Jude College Manila, the original campus located in Sampaloc, Manila.

In her speech, Ana Chua, PHINMA Education NCR schools Chief Operating Officer said that excited to launch our Grit campaign and unveil the unified brand for

boundaries and to establish what we were comfortable or not comfortable doing during the scenes,” stated Jodi. She further explained that the sensuality workshop they attended together with Joshua before flying to Europe played a significant role in making their steamy scenes easier to execute.

On the other hand, Joshua revealed that what made it easier for him to perform the scenes was the trust given to him by his leading ladies.

“It was really challenging, but I think because of the trust that Ate Jodi and Gabbi gave me, the scene became easier,” he said.

The lead stars also revealed that the audience should look forward to each character’s love story, which will be unveiled as the series progresses.

Completing the cast are veteran actors Laurice Guillen, Eula Valdes, Sunshine Cruz, Nikki Valdez, Romnick Sarment, and Victor Neri. Up-and-coming young artists Will Ashley, Jeremiah Lisbo, and Bianca de Vera also joined the starstudded cast.

Unbreak My Heart already gave the audience a sneak peek of the series during its advanced screening last Saturday on GMANetwork.com, iWantTFC, and Viu.

The television premieres tonight on GMA Telebabad, Pinoy Hits, and I Heart Movies at 9:35, while on GTV, at 11:25 p.m. The series is also available to stream on GMA Pinoy TV and TFC.

PHINMA NCR schools.

“With our expansion into the capital city, we aim to provide equal opportunities and empower these students in a competitive environment,” Chua said.

Other distinguished guests during the launch were Dr. Evenezer Beloy Education Program Supervisor School Division Office DepEd Quezon City, Rodolfo Balboa - Executive Assistant & Representative of Vice Mayor Yul Servo and Kit Sison - HR Director Willis Towers Watson (WTW) Philippines.

PHINMA Saint Jude College and PHINMA Republican College are two of the nine PHINMA Education schools in the Philippines, along with Horizon Education in Indonesia. PHINMA Saint Jude College was acquired in 2017 while in 2019, PHINMA Republican College became part of the network.

During the event, students expressed gratitude for the scholarships, easing their parents’ financial burdens. Some students, previously unable to continue their education, now feel driven to achieve their ambitions with the PHINMA scholarship.

The launch showcased exceptional students excelling academically and artistically, fostering emotional intelligence for a fulfilling life.

Leading network wins the hearts of netizens

BROADCAST giant GMA Network continues its strong performance beyond television and radio, further posting impressive traffic growth performance on various online platforms.

Data from Google Analytics show that the Network’s official website, GMANetwork. com, generated 1.8 billion page views from 179 million unique users in 2022.

The number one Philippine media conglomerate across TV, radio, and online platforms further flexes its social media presence with more and more netizens following GMA’s social media accounts.

Consolidated 2022 data covering GMA’s official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok show that the Kapuso Network’s total social media audience jumped to a 32 percent increase from 2021 with 275 million followers and subscribers.

Likewise, the videos published on the Network’s social media accounts continue

to surge with the total video views reaching 31 billion – a 13 percent increase from 2021 according to data from CrowdTangle, SproutSocial, and Tubular Labs.

For the first quarter of 2023, GMA Network’s social media followers posted an 8 percent increase with a total of 296 million followers across various social media platforms. Viewers are able to catch their favorite Kapuso shows online via the Kapuso Stream on GMANetwork.com (www. gmanetwork.com/entertainment/tv/kapuso_ stream/videos/). These programs include the groundbreaking live action adaptation, Voltes V: Legacy as well as GMA Telebabad hit Hearts On Ice, among others. On-air and online, GMA Network continues to be the most-watched and most trusted Network in the country and is positioned to reach more Filipinos across all platforms.

Julia Victoria (center) with the female cast of ‘Kabayo’

Richard Yap stars alongside Jodi in the romantic drama

Award-winning actress Jodi Sta. Maria in ‘Unbreak My Heart’

CEO; Bianca Balbuena, Head of ANIMA and Secret Menu; Kat Bautista, Head of NYMA; and Denise Seva, Head of LIVEMNL and Paradise Rising

Patricia Taculao, Editorial Assistant

By Nickie Wang

FORMER Ilocos Sur Governor

Luis “Chavit” Singson revealed on Friday that he closed a partnership deal with Korean actor and singer Lee Seung Gi alongside other Korean investors to establish a Korean lifestyle hub in Manila, which will be called “Little Seoul.”

The proposed location for this project is Metrowalk in Pasig City. Singson stated that the hub is envisioned as a comprehensive complex comprising various buildings and centers. It will serve as a dynamic space where Filipino talents can thrive,

A Korean town soon in Manila?

further develop their skills, and engage in creative pursuits. “If things go well, this will soon lay its

foundation at Metrowalk and will complete construction in two to three years,” Singson told Manila Standard Lifestyle while waiting

The splendor of Tubbataha Reefs

for the arrival of the Korean superstar at his private hangar at the NAIA.

“It’s like a little Korea, but we will call it Little Seoul. And once we’ve finalized the project, we might involve the Department of Tourism, the Department of Labor, and the Department of Trade and Industry,” he said ensuring that Little Seoul aligns with broader national objectives, such as promoting tourism, creating employment opportunities, and fostering economic growth.

The concept of Little Seoul draws inspiration from the vibrant cultural landscape of Korea. Singson envisions a place that captures the spirit and charm of the country, recreating a miniature version of Korea within Manila by offering an immersive experience of Korean culture.

Asked about the project, Lee said, “It’s only our second time to meet but we are looking forward to more Philippine

projects together.”

Lee returned to the Philippines for The Dreamer’s Dream Chapter 2 Asia tour concert, held at the New Frontier Theater on May 27. His previous visit to the country took place in 2019 when he held a fan meet for his popular series, Vagabond, at the same venue. Impressed by the scenic beauty of the Philippines, Lee expressed his fascination and mentioned his desire to film a television series in Vigan. Additionally, he even said interest in releasing a Filipino song. Speaking to the press, he enthusiastically stated, “I firmly believe that creating Korean shows in the Philippines would be amazing.”

“I visited Vigan and I found it a beautiful city. Someday we would like to film a series there,” the actor shared.

Lee is known for starring in the hit Korean dramas A Korean Odyssey, Mouse, and The King 2 Hearts, to name a few.

LOCATED right in the middle of Sulu Sea, the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a marine and bird sanctuary consisting of two huge atolls, covering more than 97,000 hectares. It is a world-renowned scuba diving site, as it is home to more than 1200 marine species.

For those of you planning to experience the splendor of this natural attraction, now is the right time to do it because optimal conditions for clear skies, calm seas, and a 30-40 meter visibility may be had from now until mid-June.

What awaits you once you get there? Schools of tropical fish, turtles, and reef sharks swim over massive coral walls that descend more than 100 meters down. More than 600 species of fish, 360 species of coral, 100 species of seabirds, and 13 types of dolphins and whales coexist in this underwater playground.

How has the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park avoided the bleachedout fate of other reefs in the Coral Triangle? There are two answers.

Firstly, the reef’s remote location in the middle of the Sulu Sea, southeast of Banwa Private Island, puts it far from irresponsible and careless fisherfolk.

Secondly, a Filipina, Angelique Songco, has stood up for its

protection since she first dived at the reef as an instructor 40 years ago.

Although by that time the reef had already been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, she personally witnessed fishermen using dynamite and cyanide for fishing while gathering turtle and bird eggs. She was so distressed that in order to rectify the situation, she worked her way up to become the Director of the Tubbataha National Park Management

The South Beach of Banwa Private Island

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is accessible from Puerto Princesa by private yacht or when booking a live-aboard dive boat. Due to its remote location, a minimum of three nights and four days is needed for an authentic Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park dive experience. While you’re in that part of the country, you might just want to complete your once-in-a-lifetime “nature’s bounty” experience by booking yourself at the Banwa Private Island nearby. Six hectares of lush, verdant landscaping and pristine white sand beaches provide a perfect environment for nature to thrive. The island is a sanctuary for an incredibly rich and diverse number of flora and fauna species. Banwa Private Island’s strong links to the local community and its intrinsic connection to the ocean provided the inspiration for its name. The culture and philosophies of the Tagbanwa people are strongly reflected in the overall ethos of this luxury destination.

More mation on your planned dive excursion at the exciting Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, or on a perfect private island R&R at the Banwa Private Island is available at mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864

From left: Metro Ilocos Norte Council General Manager Perry Martinez, Ilocos Norte Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, Cebu Pacific Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Michael Ivan Shau, Ilocos Norte Tourism Office Head Ian Raquel, and Cebu Pacific Director for Passenger Sales and Distribution Arlene Tena lead the ribbon cutting to formally inaugurate the airline’s Laoag-Manila route

Cebu Pacific relaunches

Laoag-Manila route

THE country’s leading airline, Cebu Pacific, has officially announced the relaunch of its Laoag-Manila route, marking a milestone in the airline’s commitment to providing excellent services and greater connectivity to passengers traveling to and from northern Luzon.

Officially relaunched on May 22, CEB now flies daily between Laoag and Manila, making it the 35th destination in the airline’s widest domestic network.

CEB’s latest route has significantly simplified travel within the Philippines from Laoag, as the airline now offers direct flights to 29 other domestic destinations from Ninoy Aquino International Airport. These destinations include Bacolod, Boracay, Cagayan De Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Zamboanga, among others.

Travelers from Ilocos Region can now also conveniently connect to 23 destinations across the airline’s international network from Manila, such as Bangkok, Dubai, Hong Kong, Melbourne, Narita, Singapore, Sydney, and Taipei.

“We are excited to fly again to Laoag as we continue to grow our domestic network and provide accessible and affordable air travel to every Juan. The relaunch of this route will also strengthen Laoag’s position as a leading tourism and cultural hub in north Luzon,” said Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer.

The provincial government of Ilocos Norte lauded CEB’s initiatives to boost the province’s tourism industry and encourage more people to travel to Laoag and the rest of the Ilocos Region.

“We are thrilled to welcome back Cebu Pacific to our province, as this signals a renewed hope for our tourism industry. We hope that more airlines will follow suit, as we continue to work together to revitalize our economy and bring back the vibrancy of Ilocos Norte’s tourism sector,” said Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc

CEB is firmly in place for full recovery and is set to exceed its preCOVID network and capacity, aided by its seat sales, widest domestic network, and reinstatement of its international destinations.

The Seoul skyline is made iconic by its tallest building, the Lotte World Tower

Korean star Lee Seung Gi (left) meets with Luis ‘Chavit’ Singson ahead of his fan meet and concert at the New Frontier in Quezon City

The Korean superstar greets the local press at the junket organized by Singson held at Platinum Skies Aviation hangar at NAIA

Shining a spotlight on the rising stars of Philippine legislation

By Peter Paul Duran

THE House of Representatives is a vital institution in the Philippine government that embodies our vibrant democracy. Tasked with representing the voice of the people, the House is a forum for ideas, debate, and legislative action.

And every three years, the halls of Congress welcome new faces, eager to advance the interests of their constituents and the nation.

Against the dynamic backdrop of the 19th Congress of the House of Representatives, led

by House Speaker Martin G. Romualdez, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our latest project, From Novice to Noteworthy.

This ground-breaking initiative, which follows on the heels of our successful Women Legislators Special Series in March, entitled Empowering Voices, focuses on the new faces of the 19th Congress of the House of Representatives.

Through today's special supplement, readers will be introduced to these first-term lawmakers, hailing from diverse backgrounds, as they share their fresh ideas and bold visions for the future of our country.

Some are seasoned politicians with years of experience in local government, while others are relative newcomers to the political arena. But all of them have one thing in common: A desire to make a positive impact on the lives of their constituents

and the broader Filipino community through a meaningful legislative agenda.

In this special 16-page feature, we recognize the zeal and talents of over 100 legislators every region of the country. We will delve into their personal stories, explore their political philosophies, and highlight the initiatives they are championing to move the Philippines forward. We will provide a comprehensive and nuanced picture of the legislative landscape in the 19th Congress, spanning from the bustling metropolis of the national capital to the vibrant and diverse regions that make up the rest of the country. With each lawmaker bringing their unique perspective and experience to the table, From Novice to Noteworthy promises to be an exciting journey of discovery into the dynamic world of Philippine politics.

Discover what motivates and inspires these rising stars of Philippine politics. The project will highlight their legislative priorities, examine their policy positions, and offer an inside look at their approach to lawmaking. By showcasing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, this series aims to inspire a new generation of leaders who will continue to push for progress and reform.

Join us on this exciting journey as we shine a spotlight on the new faces of Philippine politics. Novice to Noteworthy promises to be an insightful and thought-provoking issue that offers a glimpse into the future of our nation and the individuals who are shaping it in the halls of Congress.

(Photos from Institutional Information and Design Service, Press and Public Affairs Bureau, Inter-Parliamentary and Public Affairs Department of the House of Representatives)

Leading NCR with a fresh perspective

The neophytes of the 19th Congress

By Patricia taculao

THE National Capital Region (NCR)

of the Philippines is a treasure trove of opportunities for those determined to make their fortune. Because of the area’s prime location as the country’s political, economic, social, cultural, and educational center, the people welcome innovation with open arms to move further into a progressive future.

In the 19th Congress, the House of Representatives welcomed new members of lawmakers who want to make change happen in NCR. Through their open-mindedness and unwavering determination, they set an example of how the Philippines can venture and adapt to globalization.

HON. DEAN ASISTIO (Caloocan, Third District)

“Since at a young age, I have always been keen to serve the public. My zeal for service and dedication has turned various plans and programs into action; one of which is the delivery of basic social services to my constituents. It is also my mission for the progressive development of the third district of Caloocan, wherein new and improved health centers, science high school, district library, and a drug rehabilitation center is accessible.”

From being the city councilor of Caloocan, Rep. Asistio undoubtedly earned the trust of his constituents, earning him a spot in the 19th Congress as a House Member. Rep. Asistio is also a Batang Kankaloo, which pays homage to the city’s original name before its spelling changed into what Filipinos know today.

Rep. Asistio’s brand of service is handson and active. He encourages the members of Caloocan’s local government units to work with him in enacting projects and programs to benefit everyone. The Caloocan representative often checks up on his public. Some of Rep. Asistio’s successful projects include providing free WiFi to his district, distributing provisions and services during People’s Days, and encouraging the youth to have an active lifestyle through his basketball league.

Meanwhile, Rep. Asistio takes his position in the House of Representatives seriously by pushing opportunities for the progress of his constituents. Some of his principally authored bills include establishing a district library in the third legislative district of Caloocan City, creating the public schools of the future in technology, and pushing for a science high school in his jurisdiction.

HON. JUAN CARLOS “ARJO” C. ATAYDE (Quezon City, First District)

“I believe all of us in the House are motivated by our desire to serve our people. Gusto namin tumulong. We just have different areas of focus, and this is reflected in the legislation we push.”

As one of the youngest lawmakers in the country, it’s no surprise that Rep. Arjo Atayde brings to the House of Representatives a fresh perspective and a data-driven approach— both of which give the freshman legislator a keen understanding of the issues that are close to the heart of his constituents.

According to Rep. Atayde, “I think it’s

important to utilize the tools you used in your campaign— research, polling, and other technology—in program development and policy-making. If you want to act effectively, guesswork is a poor basis for governance. You need hard data; sometimes you can get the info straight from your constituents when you spend time with them. Sometimes you may also need to conduct studies or surveys to get the pulse of the district. With both, I am in a better position to serve the families of Distrito Uno.”

Rep. Atayde’s public mantra is “Aksyon Agad,” and this is obvious in both his district and in the halls of Congress. When natural calamities like floods strike QC’s first district, Rep. Atayde is on hand working with barangay officials to ensure that affected families have food and shelter. At the same time, his office in Congress is busy working with national government agencies to find long-term solutions to flooding––a topic he tackled in his first privilege speech in the House.

In the case of the actor-legislator, his advocacies are apparent in measures he has authored that have recently been passed by the House. These include the Eddie Garcia Bill, which seeks to establish a safer working environment for workers of the movie and television industry; the Internet Transaction Act or E-Commerce Law, which aims to improve and regulate online transactions; and the creation of the Philippine Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) Act, which will enable the government to better respond to public health emergencies.

HON. JOEL R. CHUA (Manila, Third District)

“I was motivated by the people around me. Growing up in Quiapo, I met different kinds of people from all walks of life. Early on, I learned how our government and leaders affect our daily lives. As a Congressman, I hope to be a champion for my district — I want to represent their values and their needs. I also want to present to the world the diverse culture and unparalleled beauty of our District.”

Rep. Joel R. Chua was already an experienced legislator and public servant years before he earned the seat in the House of Representatives. He was for several years and terms the Councilor of the Third District of Manila, the same legislative district he now represents in Congress. Manila residents have long been well aware of Rep. Chua’s compassion and expertise in the law.

As the district’s resident attorney of the people, he is known for the brand of effective and compassionate public service on legal aid and the provision of free medicine, financial aid, and livelihood assistance. Rep. Chua also has community infrastructure programs in the Third District of Manila.

The Manila lawmaker is present and active during crises. He also promotes local arts, culture, and an active lifestyle through sportsfests, pageants, and other events. Rep. Chua also works closely with other members of the LGU to promote public service efficiency.

Some of his contributions to the 19th Congress include proposed legislation declaring the immediate environs of Quiapo Church, Plaza Miranda, San Sebastian Church, and Plaza Del Carmen as a National Heritage Zone. He is also pushing for the regulation of motorcycles-forhire operations. He has proposed a legislation requiring private higher education institutions to waive the college entrance examination fees to underprivileged graduating high school graduates in the top ten percent of their graduating class.

HON. RICARDO S. CRUZ, JR. (Taguig City-Pateros, Lone District)

“When I began my journey as a public servant in the district of Taguig-Pateros, I made a solemn commitment to serve with integrity and accountability. My primary objective is to cater to the needs of our fellow constituents and improve their standard of living. One of my main priorities is to spearhead initiatives that generate employment opportunities and ensure equitable access to public medical and financial services. Being indebted for the privilege of representing the district, I am filled with enthusiasm to persist in my endeavors and offer my utmost abilities in serving the people."

Filipinos living in the Taguig-Pateros district are witnesses to Rep. Cruz's humble yet practical efforts as a public servant as Rep. Cruz previously served his people for 10 years as their Vice Mayor in the Local Government. He sets an example through respectable and honest work, which he extends to his constituents through relevant life lessons and programs. Rep. Cruz keeps a watchful eye on his jurisdiction. But other than considering his people's security, he also uses his platform to determine how he can better provide the public's needs for a better quality of living.

Opportunities for a brighter future and well-being came to the Filipino people through the partnership and cooperation between government agencies by providing projects and programs that aim to equip the public not only with the necessary skills needed in employment but to aid them in their needs medically and/or financially.

On the other hand, Rep. Cruz is the principal author and coauthor of numerous bills in the 19th Congress, including creating the health emergency auxiliary reinforcement team under the Department of Health, strengthening the technical, vocational, and livelihood curriculum for the senior high school program, prescribing the use of neo-ethnic Philippine textiles in the academic regalia of all state and local universities and colleges and the establishment of newly created barangays in the district of Taguig-Pateros.

HON. MA. VICTORIA CO-PILAR (Quezon City, Sixth District)

“Everybody is born with a calling. I believe that this is my life’s purpose. I did not come from a political family. All I have is this untiring heart and passion to serve my country and my city. This drive led me to congress to fight for shelter, education, and health for all Filipinos.”

Through her political background, Rep. Co-Pilar demonstrates how perseverance and credibility are relevant values in being a public servant. She rose from barangay captain to councilor and now to lady lawmaker. Until today, Rep. Co-Pilar recognizes the experiences and lessons that brought her to where she is now. Her motto as a representative is “Marangal na Paglilingkod,” meaning honorable service. And that’s what people can expect from her.

In her district, Rep. Co-Pilar spearheads several projects and programs that cater to the needs and wants of her public. Besides using her platform to distribute goods to students, senior citizens, individuals in crisis, and more, she also utilizes her online presence to share valuable information to help better her public’s lives.

Rep. Co-Pilar extends her thoughtfulness to other Filipinos in and out of her jurisdiction by pushing for bills like establishing Pascual District 6 Hospital of Quezon City in Barangay Baesa, Quezon City, strengthening the National Housing Authority, and creating the Department of Disaster Resilience, among others.

HON. ERNESTO JR. M. DIONISIO (Manila, First

District)

“I am aware of the changes we can implement with good public service and this became my motivation to pursue a political career. Given this, I want to champion disregarding party lines when it comes to delivering basic services in my district.”

Fondly known as Ernix to the public, Rep. Dionisio upholds his family’s legacy of unwavering commitment to public service.

But with Rep. Dionisio assuming the position of a lawmaker in the House of Representatives, he brings positive change to his district as they strive to create a “Bagong Tondo.” He’s also known as “The Working Congressman,” who offers one-of-a-kind service to the Filipinos living in Manila’s First District.

Since Tondo is a bustling community, Rep. Dionisio continues to find opportunities to improve people’s lives and solve their daily problems. The lawmaker often works closely with the Manila government and its other units to distribute goods and provisions to those in need. He offers financial aid, medical assistance, and more, proving that he listens to his constituents. Rep. Dionisio also promotes the vibrant culture in his district through parades, contests, and similar programs. His contributions to the 19th Congress span different sectors and communities, all the while recognizing the welfare of everyone involved. His principally authored bills include defining and protecting elders from abuse, encouraging corporate social responsibility, and mandating all barangay workers to create a registry of skilled workers.

HON. JAIME R. FRESNEDI (Muntinlupa City, Lone District)

“I wanted to pursue my calling for public service which began twenty-two years ago that’s why I ran for Congress. I have always pursued my life as a public servant as a ‘servant leader.’ I shall only pass this road once and I must do what is good for all. This time, I want to push for, and support proposed policies focusing on education, health, and justice as well as the improvement of our local government units and system.”

Rep. Fresnedi, who also goes by Jimmy in his district, established himself in Muntinlupa as its long-time Mayor. One of his most relevant qualities is his devotion to the city and its people. His life revolves around serving the people with utmost dedication, honesty, and industry among others. Dubbed the “Education Mayor”, several educational institutions were established and the building and maintenance of schools were primary advocacies during his administration. Through his leadership, the city extended scholarship grants to thousands of students from the lowest to the highest educational levels (elementary to postgraduate studies including law and medicine courses). As a consequence, the City scholarship programs served as models adopted by other cities in the country. Aside from free tuition fees, the City of Muntinlupa during Rep. Fresnedi’s term as Mayor likewise granted financial assistance or allowances to qualified and deserving students to ensure the completion of their studies.

He later ran and successfully became a member of the House of Representatives to extend his reach and further assist the people of his lone district. With his years of political experience, Rep. Fresnedi knows and has what it takes to lead Filipinos to a progressive future. He’s also quick to respond to any situation in his district, proving his leadership and dedication to his public.

In the 19th Congress, he is one of the principal authors of the SIM Registration Act and the recently approved New Agrarian Reform Emancipation Act, which is just waiting for the signature of the President.

HON. FRANZ PUMAREN (Quezon City, Third District)

“Hoping to make a difference in people’s lives led me to public service—to bring about meaningful change by ensuring access to primary services. As elected Representative, I hope to continue my advocacy on crafting social protection measures anchored on the #FirstPriority 4Ps platform: Pangkalusugan, Pampamilya, Paaral at Pangkabuhayan.”

Being a public servant, Rep. Pumaren knows how to prioritize his initiatives. He always puts his constituents’ welfare first and foremost. Rep. Pumaren carefully earned his district’s trust and respect over the years, frequently engaging with them through online posts or face-to-face opportunities. His goal as a leader is to help others grow. He uses his worldliness to inspire his fellow Filipinos to embrace innovativeness in modern society.

Rep. Pumaren, who’s always at the service of the Filipinos, enacts programs and projects that consider what’s best for his district. One of his prerogatives is promoting quality health services for the safety and security of his constituents. Besides that, he also engages in other activities like donation drives, a mobile food truck, and providing alternative livelihoods to sectors in need.

The lawmaker is also active in creating and supporting bills that align with his vision as a leader. Some of his contributions to the 19th Congress include providing free annual medical checkups for Filipinos, establishing a mandatory evacuation center in every province, city, and municipality in the country, and institutionalizing the sustainability of government-funded sports facilities.

HON. MARVIN D. RILLO (Quezon City, Fourth District)

“The heart for public service holds a warmth degree for me to take the path of politics. I believe, having the position will make a huge impact and influence to represent the good causes and welfare of the Filipino people. Through my mandate as the duly elected representative of the 4th Legislative District, I have committed to lead the paramount aspect of the lives of the people I act for, giving them contemporary, sustainable, and inclusive leadership through policies, programs, and measures in health, education, social services, livelihood, and infrastructure.”

As a lawmaker, there’s a level of trust between the incumbent and the public. As the district representative, Rep. Rillo follows the tagline, “Mahal Ang Masa, Mahal Ng Masa.”

It fully embodies his passion and dedication as a public servant committed to caring for his public. He’s also leading the charge for a “Makabagong Distrito 4” to set an example of how progressive Filipinos are in accepting change.

Rep. Rillo, who also works closely with the Quezon City LGU to provide his district’s demands, is steadfast in carrying out programs and projects. He’s also attentive in listening to his constituents’ needs, allowing him to become efficient as a public servant. Some of his services include offering financial assistance, school supplies and essentials, and establishing new, relevant and useful infrastructures in his area.

The representative also made several notable additions to the 19th Congress with his principally authored bills, including granting bereavement leave of seven days with full pay to all employees in private and public sectors, creating a tripartite council to address unemployment, underemployment, and the job-skills mismatch problem in the country, and strengthening the special program in creative arts for junior and senior high school.

HON. MARJORIE ANN A. TEODORO (Marikina City, First District)

“As a former educator, education, health, women’s rights, and senior citizens’ welfare hold a special place in my heart—the exact things that compelled me to enter the world of politics in hopes to make a difference. Aiming for more inclusive laws for them, I prioritize the Expanded Violence Against Women and their Children (E-VAWC Act), and measures that seek to provide free healthcare services, establish specialized geriatric health research centers, and institutionalize social and capacity-building opportunities for public school teachers.”

In Marikina, Rep. Teodoro defines her work as the district representative as continuous support to enhance their quality of life. The lady lawmaker, who also goes by Maan in her district, is well-loved by the public because of her modern ideals that empower every individual from various sectors. Her warm presence also ensures her constituents that she’s always around whenever they need her.

One of her most successful initiatives as a district representative is the Eco-Friendly Mobile Reading Center, which brings books closer to children so they can access quality education and benefit from their studies. She also provided free eyeglasses to students to ease any visual challenge. She also promotes a safe environment for everyone through infrastructure projects, public service announcements, and more.

Rep. Teodoro is also active in the House of Representatives and made relevant principally-authored bills, including defining electronic violence against women and their children, providing protective measures, and prescribing penalties for violations. Her other contributions include establishing the National Filipino Women’s Museum and providing free medical and dental services to indigenous children.

HON. RALPH WENDEL P. TULFO (Quezon City, Second District)

“Having been nurtured in a family that champions the marginalized and abused, I have been inspired to personally bridge the gap between informal communities and the law. I believe that the right to adequate housing is a fundamental need and a source of comfort for every Filipino, and I intend to see many of my constituents finally have a place to call home.”

New, progressive, and without corruption. Those are the characteristics Rep. Tulfo uses to define his brand of public service. He’s also responsible and genuine as a representative for his district. Rep. Tulfo hopes to bring abundance to his people and celebrate their accomplishments as they move toward modernization. He considers Filipinos’ daily problems, no matter how small, and solves them promptly. People see him as someone they can run to when the need arises.

As a district representative, Rep. Tulfo champions quality health by providing free medical assistance services to his constituents. He also has fruitful collaborations with other government agencies and partylists, one being the Flood Control System accomplished in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). He also raises awareness about underserved communities to bring them better representation.

His hard work extends to the House of Representatives, as he also principally authored several bills in the 19th Congress. Some examples are instituting policies for the protection and welfare of caregivers in their profession, promoting entrepreneurship by establishing a socialized microfinancing program for microenterprises through the “Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-Asenso Program,” and supporting gender equality and upholding the sanctity of marriage.

HON. PATRICK MICHAEL D. VARGAS (Quezon City, Fifth District)

“I will pursue where my brother, Alfred Vargas, took off. We aspire to see a brighter and better Novaliches with people happy with their lives because we did what we could to guarantee their health, jobs, and education for their children. We will always stand by our principles of family, excellence, faith, and integrity in whatever we do for the Novaleños and for Quezon City.”

Continuing the legacy of his brother, former Rep. Alfred Vargas, PM treats his constituents as family. He stays true to the Vargas’ brand of public service by tirelessly showing how his constituents can count on him at any given time. His leadership is consultative and very hands-on.

Known as the District V’s #goodPM, Rep. Vargas denotes kindness to his people as seen in his frequent visits, and is always on the field to see things through. His programs address the public’s need to get back on their feet much so after the pandemic, whether for medical, educational, or means of livelihood.

Rep. Vargas’ approachable nature made him a friend and ally to the community, particularly to the sectors of senior citizens, youth, women, and many others. He also serves as the Chairman of the Red Cross Novaliches Branch.

In the 19th Congress, he made a number of contributions to nationbuilding through principally authored bills, including enhanced protection and benefits for media workers, special allowances to persons with disabilities, Christmas bonuses for the elderly, financial literacy and entrepreneurship programs, and several other high impact bills and resolutions. Despite being a neophyte lawmaker, Rep. Vargas always makes it to the top five in terms of legislative performance with an excellent average of being a congressman with most bills passed on Third Reading as of the first quarter of 2023.

HON. AMPARO MARIA J. ZAMORA (Taguig City, Lone District)

“Having been exposed to Public Service through my father, Rep. Ronny Zamora, it felt very natural for me to likewise offer my talents to the electorate. Despite being a neophyte, I am unwavering on my initiatives on both policies and programs that directly impact Taguigeños while also championing health, education, and women empowerment.”

The lady lawmaker, fondly called Pammy, is a prime example of an independent, empowered female leader. She is not afraid to take on responsibilities as a District Representative and to push boundaries for better service to her constituents in the Second District of Taguig. Despite being a neophyte legislator, Rep. Zamora is not new in the public arena. She has long been serving the City of Taguig as a Councilor for three consecutive terms. She is well-loved by her district for her assuring presence and continuous efforts to make daily services accessible. Ever since her Council days, Rep. Zamora has always been an advocate for health and women empowerment, among others. As a District Representative, she is focused on delivering programs and services that are of direct impact to her constituents. She offers various assistance programs for her constituents such as medical and financial assistance, livelihood programs, and vocational scholarships.

As an Assistant Majority Floor Leader, Rep. Zamora actively participates in plenary discussions and is committed to passing legislations geared toward the country’s progressive future to improve the quality of life of every Filipino.

HON. YSABEL MARIA J. ZAMORA (San Juan City, Lone District)

“I am fortunate to have the opportunity to continue our family’s tradition of public service. I continue to provide modern infrastructure, affordable housing, effective healthcare, the promotion of education and job generation commenced during my dad’s term. I provide free legal assistance through the conduct of personal consultations and plan to hold legal aid clinics. I recognize that there are disadvantaged sectors, and join in legislation to remove inequalities in our laws and support efforts to support women in crisis, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.”

As the first congresswoman of the district, a lot is riding on Rep. Zamora’s shoulders.

Rep. Zamora, or Atty. Bel, as she is known by her constituents, is not afraid of the mantle of responsibility thrust upon her. While a novice in Congress, Rep. Zamora brings with her almost fifteen years of experience as a law practitioner, having handled a variety of cases before different courts and quasi-judicial bodies. Thus, she has seen up close the difficulties ordinary citizens experience when faced with legal proceedings. Rep. Zamora wishes to make the law and the administration of justice more accessible to her constituents and remove the inequalities she has seen in the application of our laws. She feels that this will bring positive results that benefit the residents of San Juan City. She uses her online platform wisely to disseminate valuable information and demonstrate her transparency as a public servant.

Rep. Zamora very closely works with the local government of San Juan City as well as with other government agencies to offer various services to her constituents, such as financial, medical, educational, and burial assistance. Rep. Zamora spearheads other significant projects and programs, such as infrastructure and championing the rights of various communities.

Rep. Zamora’s efforts are also evident in her early initiatives in the 19th Congress. These include providing for the right of married women to retain their maiden names, instituting the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, supporting early voting for qualified senior citizens, persons with disabilities, lawyers, and health workers in national and local elections, TESDA scholarships for rehabilitated drug dependents, strengthening of the technical, vocational, and livelihood components of the Senior High School curriculum, establishing a sustainable financing program for micro and small enterprises, and expansion of the Court system in cities and provinces, including San Juan City.

Pioneers of development and stewards of culture

By Patricia taculao

IN the Northern area of the Philippines, there lies a community with a vibrant history and heritage. The regions of Ilocos (Region I), Cagayan Valley (Region II), and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) are bustling areas known for their tourism, agriculture, and economy. It’s where people can see a beautiful interweaving of the past and present, thanks to its leaders’ historical preservation and bid toward modernization.

The House of Representatives features several individuals, like the representatives from Regions I, II, and CAR, who further efforts of innovation and recognition for what the areas and its people have to offer.

HON. MENCHIE B. BERNOS (Abra, Lone District)

“Having a career in public service means an opportunity to serve the people. I am now in a position to address concerns like infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture. Our work in creating a sustainable economy and a developed society continues so that progress will always be felt by all Abreños.”

From being the local chief executive of La Paz, Abra, Rep. Ching B. Bernos rose to prominence in the Province of Abra upon her election as Congresswoman in 2022. In the august halls of Congress, she remained steadfast to the motto “Agtultuloy ti PROGRESO…,” serving Abreños through various initiatives, programs, and projects. She is the author of 109 measures of national and local importance. She is Vice Chairperson of the House Committees on Appropriations, Public Order and Safety, and Social Services, on top of her membership in the other five key committees.

A defining moment for Cong. Ching was when she led the efforts for relief to her affected constituents after a magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit Abra in 2022. She also spearheaded the provision of ambulance units to local government units, bringing to national awareness the situation in Abra. As such, she continues the infrastructure development endeavors in Abra, improving accessibility of communities and helping local farmers reach their markets efficiently and effectively; lighting up roads to keep drivers and tourists safe; and constructing multi-purpose buildings to improve governance and community activities.

Rep. Bernos’ legislative measures include: creating an additional Regional Trial Court branch in Abra; creating the Abra River Basin Development Authority; strengthening public health emergency response; providing sustainable management of forests; promoting the right to adequate food; Magna Carta for private school teachers; and mandating the use of on-grid solar energy systems in government offices.

HON. MIDY N. CUA (Quirino, Lone District)

“I am motivated by the immense potential of the people of Quirino. I have seen how talented and hardworking Quirinians are. I would like to help them succeed by making sure that they are provided with quality education, access to healthcare services, and opportunities to earn income.”

Being a representative in the modern age, Rep. Cua leads her district with the knowledge and expertise needed to bring significant progress. She uses her time wisely to advocate for the public’s demands to live better lives. The lady lawmaker also works closely with other agencies and local government units to achieve the best results and broaden her reach in her area, ultimately attaining her goal of satisfying her constituents.

One of Rep. Cua’s efforts in her district is providing opportunities to develop the quality of education and recognizing the potential for teachers and students to achieve this objective. During events, Rep. Cua personally meets with her constituents, lending a sympathetic ear to members from various communities, like women, children, and elders, and offering them assistance through numerous projects and programs.

She’s also a trailblazer in the 19th Congress as the principal author of bills like establishing a period of validity for registration certificates of motor vehicles, creating a Bangko Sentral Peso (BDSP) as a medium of exchange or as money for use on all digital means, and introducing a tiered system of social pension for indigent senior citizens.

HON. DANTE S. GARCIA (La Union, Second District)

“There is a pressing issue that I do feel I am really passionate about. Having started as a Barangay SK Chairman almost 30 years ago, it has been my ardent dream to be noble as a public servant and bring the government much closer to the people.”

As a representative, Rep. Garcia aims to bring the government’s services as close and accessible to the people as possible. He continuously bids for the advancement of his district by being one step ahead as a leader and making himself approachable as a public leader. His constituents are always happy to see him when he frequently visits them to see how else he could improve their lives.

Rep. Garcia recognizes the potential of empowering his people, which is how he has centered the projects and programs he offers from his office as a district representative. He provides cash assistance and distributes livelihood opportunities to various communities. Rep. Garcia also implements other services in his jurisdiction to improve his constituents’ quality of life and is a staunch advocate of the fortified local agriculture industry.

The lawmaker also keeps himself occupied with his efforts in the House of Representatives. Some of his contributions, in the form of principally authored bills, include establishing the Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Program, promoting integrated urban agriculture in urban areas nationwide to address food security, and establishing the agriculture information system in all cities and municipalities.

HON. RAMON JR. N. GUICO (Pangasinan, Fifth District)

“Because I have always yearned for positive changes, I took it upon myself to bear the heavy responsibility of leading our community. My vision for our people, our district, and the whole province has always been clear: to empower people through more responsive and more effective local governance.”

Rep. Guico, or “Monching” as he is often affectionately called, is a well-known politician in Pangasinan owing to his lengthy tenure as mayor of Binalonan. Now the representative of the Fifth Congressional District of Pangasinan, the lawmaker hopes to bring out the prospects that his district and its people have to offer in realizing a modern and able community. Seen as a father figure by his people, the responsibility of leading them on the right path rests on his shoulders.

As a tenured local chief executive and former President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP), Rep. Guico is one of the foremost champions of strengthening local governments to provide faster and improved services to the people. As such, he spearheads numerous infrastructure projects throughout his jurisdiction to support the effective and efficient operations of numerous local government units.

In the 19th Congress, some of his noteworthy legislative proposals are: establishing a general minimum wage rate for private-sector workers, implementing competitive grant programs to retain highly qualified teachers in rural communities, and imposing a nationwide ban on the use of single-use plastics to eliminate plastic pollution in the Philippines.

HON. FERDINAND ALEXANDER

A. MARCOS (Ilocos Norte, First District)

Coming from a family of politicians (with his father and grandfather as the incumbent and former President of the Philippines, respectively), a lot is riding on the representative’s shoulders. Yet Rep. Marcos, or Sandro, as his constituents fondly call him, doesn’t disappoint. He spent years learning about the ins and outs

of politics, allowing him to become the efficient leader he is today. The young Rep. Marcos keeps himself busy by going around his district and the Philippines to offer assistance and innovations when he can.

Rep. Marcos is big on fulfilling his promises, with some of them being infrastructure projects. One of his recent accomplishments is the realization of a functioning sandbox in Pasuquin to provide free IT/Wi-Fi needs, meet the demands of modern society, and empower technologicallysavvy minds. He also assists other industries like agriculture, education, and health, among other sectors.

His principally authored bills in the 19th Congress include institutionalizing the transition of the government to e-governance in the digital age, establishing satellite specialty hospitals in Northern Luzon to provide access to specialized medical care, and creating the Environmental Protection and Enforcement Bureau (EPEB) under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

HON. FRANCISCO PAOLO P. ORTEGA V (La Union, First District)

“My becoming a public servant could have been influenced by the fact that I grew up in a family of public servants in the political arena. I started as Barangay Kagawad at age 22 and in almost just two decades is now a member of the House of Representatives. From the start, I have always been passionate and focused on programs and interventions on Education, Youth and Sports and Innovation. It is my conviction that our young people, as they are the future of this country and leaders of the next generation, should have the opportunities for better education, develop and hone their skills and achieve their full potentials through innovative and sustainable endeavors.”

When there’s a chance to describe how Rep. Ortega leads his people, it’s always with power (or “Paower,” as a play on his name). But it’s not the kind of power that restricts people to a specific situation. Instead, it refers to his competency as a public servant who puts the welfare and safety of his constituents to heart. Rep. Ortega’s calm and warm demeanor makes him a friend and confidante to the public.

Rep. Ortega focuses on empowering various sectors of his community, but he also gives particular notice to the youth because of their potential to become the next global leaders. He offers educational assistance to senior high students in schools across his district. On the other hand, the representative also oversees the establishment of new infrastructures to improve the public’s quality of living.

Despite being busy in his district, Rep. Ortega has already left an impact in the House of Representatives. He’s the principal author of bills that call to preserve agricultural land and regulate its conversion to non-agricultural purposes, providing for the development of sustainable cities and communities in the country, and creating a national policy on adolescent pregnancy, including its prevention.

HON. JOSEPH S. TAN (Isabela, Fourth District)

Despite being a government official, specifically a district representative, Rep. Tan presents himself to his constituents as their best friend in tireless service and persevering progress toward nationbuilding. Since he was the former mayor of Santiago, Isabela, Rep. Tan established himself among the public as a reliable public servant and leader—a trait he brought to the House of Representatives. An engineer by profession, Rep. Tan uses his knowledge and expertise to work on improvements in his assigned provinces.

Rep. Tan has several ways to empower Filipinos, from harnessing their creative and athletic skills to providing them with opportunities and services that could further their potential. The lawmaker also champions agricultural progress and environmental preservation, among the other goals on his agenda. He’s also a friend to communities like the youth, elders, farmers, and more.

In the 19th Congress, Rep. Tan’s contributions as the principal author of bills include establishing specialty centers in hospitals under the direct supervision and control of the Department of Health, providing for the enabling environment to foster the growth of public-private partnerships for infrastructure and other development projects, and providing for the Magna Carta of barangay health workers.

Central figures of the 19th Congress in Region III

By Patricia taculao

AS A significant agriculture nexus in the Philippines, Region III or Central Luzon is vital in the country’s development and preservation. Each province focuses on specific products and contributes to the country’s economy and tourism, among other sectors. Let’s not forget their cultural and historical relevance in promoting a sense of identity and patriotism.

With the proper leadership from the local and national governments, Region III maintains its position as a hub for growth and development. In the 19th Congress, Filipinos from Central Luzon and nationwide can see the contributions of their elected representatives in strengthening the status quo and exploring the boundaries of progress. Their initiatives demonstrate how provinces can embrace prospects to their benefit.

HON. JAIME D. COJUANGCO (Tarlac, First District)

“My motivation to pursue this career actually stemmed from my Lolo ECJ, Lolo Henry, and Dad. I want nothing more than to continue their legacy of mindful legislation and overall improvement to the lives of the people of Tarlac.

To be honest, I was naive at the start. Thinking that I had all the answers and knew better than my constituents, saying that I would focus on certain policies that I thought were more important. However, the truth is that to truly understand the needs and wants of your constituents requires you to actually interact, converse and debate with them. At the end of these genuine interactions is when you will uncover the things that matter to them most. The policy needs of Tarlac are everchanging and I look forward to building the new Tarlac with my constituents.”

Hailing from a family with ties in politics, the young Rep. Cojuangco came into his own and stepped up as a district representative. Armed with the knowledge and experience from his family’s legacy, Rep. Cojuangco brings a fresh perspective to his leadership that allows him to put his constituents’ welfare as the topmost priority. He also explores new avenues for improvement to provide various experiences and opportunities to people from all walks of life.

During his time as a district representative, Rep. Cojuangco spearheaded the completion of various projects, including establishing relevant infrastructures, like a public market, government offices, and bridges, to increase accessibility and convenience within his district. He also partners with other government agencies to extend benefits to the public.

In the meantime, his agenda in the 19th Congress spans various sectors, providing different advantages for Filipinos. His principally-authored bills include mandating the inclusion of agricultural concepts in the curriculum of all primary and secondary schools, creating a tripartite council to address the jobskills mismatch, unemployment, and underemployment in the country, and institutionalizing the transition to e-governance in the digital age.

HON. AMBROSIO JR. C. CRUZ (Bulacan, Fifth District)

“To be an active part of nation-building through legislative interventions. Most especially, the shift to a Federal system of government that will bring the government closer to the governed, thereby reducing substantial corruption in the government.”

Rep. Cruz, also known as Boy to his constituents, has been a staunch figure to Bulakeños for years. As the former mayor of Guiguinto, Bulacan, people already know his personal touch as a public servant because they know how the representative cares for his constituents. He leads his district with a fortified sense of Bayanihan to encourage everyone that change is possible and rewarding if everyone works together toward a common goal.

The district representative, although frequently busy, always keeps a smile on his face when interacting with his public. He collaborates with various government agencies to bring benefits to the public, such as assistance programs to several communities and displaced workers. Rep. Cruz also recognizes the potential of the youth for nation-building through various projects that highlight their abilities and passions.

His concern for the Filipinos and his efforts extend to the House of Representatives, where he principally authored bills like mandating the construction of a coastal road connecting the CAMANAVA (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela) area to the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga, and Bataan. Other filed bills include creating the Department of Water Resources Management and requiring all national, regional, and provincial government hospitals to establish, operate, and maintain a dialysis ward or unit in their respective hospital to provide free dialysis treatments to indigenous patients.

HON. DANNY

A. DOMINGO (Bulacan, First District)

If there’s one thing that Rep. Domingo uses to describe himself and his brand of public service, it’s becoming a dad or father figure to his constituents. People also know him as a servant of justice who values the truth. The public often approaches him to address problems Filipinos face daily in society. Like a father, he’s an ideal example of strength and sympathy, becoming someone that society can look up to.

Some of his projects and programs include medical missions, environmental clean-up drives, and agricultural grants to empower his farmer constituents to have a better livelihood. He also spearheads other initiatives, like the waterway dredging efforts, to improve his district’s quality of life.

For the 19th Congress, Rep. Domingo is the principal author of several bills, like integrating a comprehensive study of Philippine history during World War II into the higher education curriculum, prescribing the guidelines for the establishment and operation of local universities and colleges, and providing for the enabling environment to foster the growth of public-private partnerships for infrastructure and other development projects.

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Rep. Garcia, also fondly known as Gila by her constituents, was a three (3) term Mayor of the Municipality of Dinalupihan. She is the first Representative of the newly created Third (3rd) District of the Province of Bataan, comprising the towns of Dinalupihan, Morong, Bagac and Mariveles, being masterplanned as the “Bali” of the Philippines.

Her inspiration in public service is her beloved father, Enrique “Tet” Garcia, Jr., who served as Governor and Congressman of the Province of Bataan. She leads with grace, knowledge, and wisdom, which she aptly exhibits through her efforts in various committee memberships in the House of Representatives. She’s creating a legacy of her own, with programs that positively impact the lives of Filipino families.

Among her efforts in her district is the strengthening of education, health, and livelihood programs. The representative also empowers the farmers and agricultural sector prevalent in the province she leads. She also embraces the potential of technology and modern advancements in creating a competitive and thriving environment for farmers.

Meanwhile, her contributions to the 19th Congress, through her principally-authored bills, includes the creation of the Metro Bataan Development Authority, conversion of the Bataan Peninsula State University - Bagac Campus, creation of the DPWH Third District Engineering Office of the Province of Bataan, and co-authorship of the Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers.

HON. JEFFERSON F. KHONGHUN (Zambales, First District)

“A particularly important quality that I possess is my genuine concern for my constituents, understanding that being in whatever position I hold, I have the responsibility to serve them. In my whole political career, this has always been my vision: to make ways to improve the lives of the people who trusted me to lead.”

From being mayor to vice governor to district representative, Rep. Khonghun carefully climbed the ranks of the local government, thanks to the trust and support of his constituents, which he rightfully earned over the years. He established himself as a public servant whose strength lies in helping his public achieve new opportunities and live better lives under his watchful eye. He proves there is much to accomplish through hardwork and a deeper connection with the public.

Even though district representatives have a lot on their plates, Rep. Khonghun goes above and beyond to offer his services to Filipinos however he can. Among his many initiatives were providing better roads, supplying health equipment and medical services, and offering scholarships to equip the public with the skills they need as professionals.

On the other hand, his contributions to the 19th Congress include providing distance incentive allowances for public school teachers, granting full insurance coverage to all qualified agrarian reform beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, and requiring mandatory safety training for all public utility vehicle drivers as a requirement for approval of driver’s licenses.

HON. DORIS E. MANIQUIZ (Zambales, Second District)

There’s more to Rep. Maniquiz than being a district representative. To her hundreds and thousands of constituents, she’s Nanay Bing, a motherly figure devoted to bringing the utmost care and compassion to every Filipino. Her warm demeanor encourages the public to turn to her during good and bad times, as she’s ready to lend a sympathetic ear. Nonetheless, Rep. Maniquiz is keen to take on challenges that come her way.

Her love for her constituents is evident in the way she provides various projects and programs. These include providing financial assistance to senior citizens, establishing a better government

through orientations and funding, and encouraging the youth to embrace their passion for sports and culture.

In the 19th Congress, she principally authored bills like strengthening the barangay unit by providing additional benefits to barangay security, health, and nutrition workers, professionalizing paralegal practice in the Philippines, and fortifying the conservation and protection of Philippine cultural heritage through cultural mapping and an enhanced cultural education program.

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AUGUSTINA DOMINIQUE C. PANCHO (Bulacan, Second District)

Rep. Pancho goes by another title than Congresswoman in her district. She labeled herself as “Ditse Tina.” “Ditse” means second eldest sister in Hokkien. But being a “ditse” is more than a word of endearment for Rep. Pancho as she also lives accordingly as a public servant. Like an elder sister, she maintains a constant presence in her jurisdiction to demonstrate how active she is in bringing positive change to their lives.

Bulacan is a province rich in history and brimming with individual potential. As the district representative, it falls on Rep. Pancho’s shoulders to bring opportunities and benefits to her district. Some of her programs and projects empower the youth by tapping and honing their interests. The lady legislator also led other efforts like providing patients with financial assistance, establishing modern infrastructures, and more.

She’s also making waves in the House of Representatives by being the principal author of several bills in the 19th Congress. These include but are not limited to granting incentives for commercial and industrial establishments and developers who will incorporate rainwater harvesting technology in their businesses, establishing the Public Schools of the Future in Technology, and fortifying the procedure for registration of voters while adopting an online registration system.

HON. EMERSON D. PASCUAL (Nueva Ecija, Fourth District)

If there’s one thing that Rep. Pascual prioritizes as a district representative, it’s providing quality public service to his constituents. He keeps himself aware of trends and developments he can implement in his district to achieve efficient results in nationbuilding. Rep. Pascual also maximizes his online presence to promote transparency, evidently setting an example of what Filipinos should expect from someone who puts the public first.

Among all his efforts, Rep. Pascual recognizes the relevance of education among the youth. He works from town to town to offer scholarships to students, who he believes are the next generation of public leaders and servants. Besides the younger generations, Rep. Pascual also offers financial support to elders and those who require medical attention. To him, no one should be left behind. His regard for education is also noticeable in the 19th Congress, wherein he’s the principal author of an act converting the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology into a comprehensive university known as Nueva Ecija State University, expanding and rationalizing its curricular offerings, and strengthening its governing board. Rep. Pascual’s other bills include regulating the use of treatment technology for municipal and hazardous wastes and managing the use of treatment technology for municipal and hazardous wastes.

HON. SALVADOR A. PLEYTO (Bulacan, Sixth District)

“I was not really interested in politics but I was interested in being of service to the public ever since I was young. I brought about change to the community with what I have and what I have achieved as an engineer who started from the lowestranking employee to be the Undersecretary of the DPWH. Being elected Congressman to the newly created Sixth District of Bulacan, my vision is to create a real upliftment of the conditions of my constituents. Using a mix of grassroots and holistic approaches, I prefer a hands-on and personal approach to my leadership. I am focused on long-term and maintainable programs that would be most beneficial to the people and would affect the community in a very positive way. At present, I maximizes my time in doing legislative work with numerous committee memberships so I can learn more and at the same time share my knowledge. I also visits my area of jurisdiction to personally know the plight of my constituency.”

When it comes to being a leader and a public leader, Rep. Pleyto wants the complete experience of service for his constituents. His dedication to the people allowed him to earn their trust and support. Rep. Pleyto recognizes how the past is relevant in paving the way for the present. He also acknowledges various opportunities that could lead the Filipinos toward modernization and globalization.

Besides his affinity for public service, the district representative is also an engineer who uses his knowledge to best benefit Filipinos under his jurisdiction. One of his recent undertakings is the Farm to Market Road Project in Angat, Bulacan, one of his primary goals this year. He also works closely with other government agencies to address frequent social problems.

Rep. Pleyto also has an array of contributions in the House of Representatives, having principally authored bills that aim to enact a

MARIA ANGELA S. GARCIA (Bataan, Third District)

Central figures...

new Philippine Building Act to make infrastructures more resilient against natural calamities, rehabilitate and upgrade existing resettlement areas while providing employment opportunities to uplift the living conditions of residents, and strengthen the practice of midwifery as a profession in the country.

HON. NOEL “BONG” N. RIVERA (Tarlac, Third District)

“My passion alone to help my fellow countrymen in times of great need ignited me to start my political career. I wish to uplift the lives of my fellow constituents by providing the necessary funding for infrastructure in order to improve the delivery of health, educational, and social services.”

His constituents expect Rep. Rivera to carry out his responsibilities as a district representative efficiently. But beyond the call of duty, Rep. Rivera never fails to add a touch of contentment and compassion to show the public his unwavering dedication to providing immediate action to address their concerns, whether it may be big or small. He values the opportunities life brings him, and aims to become a beacon to guide others achieve their goals.

Rep. Rivera believes in the youth’s potential, which they could unleash through the appropriate avenues. He highlights their physical and mental abilities by holding basketball tournaments and pageants to boost their confidence and be one step closer in achieving their dreams. He also conducts frequent People’s Day to extend services like medical missions and more to require attention.

Despite being active in his district, Rep. Rivera also made an impact in the 19th Congress through principally-authored bills like prohibiting game-fixing, emancipating agrarian reform beneficiaries from financial burden by condoning unpaid amortizations and interests and exempting payment of estate tax on agricultural lands awarded under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, and protecting the right of the people to freedom of religion in the Philippines.

HON. MIKAELA ANGELA B. SUANSING (Nueva Ecija, First District)

Rep. Suansing is a public finance expert who graduated from and taught in Harvard University prior to being elected to Congress. Committed to uplifting the lives of Filipino farmers, she joined public service to enhance the country’s agricultural productivity and promote reforms in the country’s educational system. Despite being a neophyte, she holds several key positions in Congress: Assistant Majority Floor Leader, Senior Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Ways and Means, and Vice Chairperson of the Committees on Agriculture and Food, Higher and Technical Education, and Economic Affairs. She also had the privilege of being entrusted to successfully defend several of the current Administration’s priority legislative measures in the Plenary of Congress.

As a Representative of Nueva Ecija, the Rice Granary of the Philippines, Rep. Suansing champions the welfare of farmers and different sectors through the 144 House bills that she has principally authored. Among these notable bills are those that provide for the following: 1) expand and improve the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) to provide additional subsidies to farmers, 2) authorize government agencies to use the funds for the 4Ps rice subsidy to purchase palay directly from local rice farmers, 3) institute a universal social pension for senior citizens, 4) provide free dialysis to senior citizens and indigents, 5) the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, and 6) provide for free professional driver’s license application and renewal for PUV drivers.

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Two regions united in one House

By Patricia taculao

REGION IV in the Southern Tagalog area has two parts, A and B, each having its identity that makes them unique. For instance, Region IV-A (composed of the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon, or CALABARZON) is a favorite tourist spot for local and international travelers. It’s known for its white beaches, cultural heritage sites dating back to the Spanish era, marine sanctuary, majestic mountains, and more. In the meantime, Region IV-B (which consists of the provinces of Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan) is one of the producers of the country’s top export products like rice, banana, coconut, cashew, and papaya.

Yet, despite being separated into two different parts of the same region, CALABARZON and MIMAROPA share in the appreciation of good governance. It’s prevalent in their districts thanks to their representatives in the 19th Congress, who answered the call of public service.

HON. ADRIAN JAY C. ADVINCULA (Cavite, Third District)

If there’s one thing that the residents in Cavite’s Third District know, it’s the “Alagang Advincula” brand of service from their district representative. Rep. Advincula tirelessly listens to his people to determine how to provide the appropriate services. He uses his knowledge from his interactions with the public to offer new opportunities to his constituents as he leads them to a modern society that embraces change and other prospects.

Due to his dedication to providing the utmost care and service, Rep. Advincula is always active in his district. Some of his efforts include providing millions of pesos worth of financial assistance for medicine, education, and livelihood opportunities. He also spearheaded various infrastructure projects to offer several improvements.

The district representative is also busy in the 19th Congress lobbying for bills advantageous to various communities in the Philippines. He’s the principal author of acts like mandating all Sangguniang Barangays to provide health cards to their appointed barangay nutrition scholars, barangay health workers, and barangay tanods, instituting a National Citizens Service Training Program in all public and private tertiary education institutions, and providing for the development of sustainable cities and communities in the country.

HON. MARIA JAMINA KATHERINE B. AGARAO (Laguna, Fourth District)

Her contributions to the 19th Congress as a principal author of various bills include providing a nursing scholarship program to deserving students, regulating the practice of microbiology in the Philippines, and establishing evacuation centers in every city and municipality.

HON. JOSE C. ALVAREZ (Palawan, Second District)

“Before I even decided to leave the private sector and join politics, I observed how the Province of Palawan was reeling from a case of bad governance and missing out on opportunities for growth and a better quality of life for its people. Palawan in the past had always been underrated in terms of its growth performance, despite its inherent potentials on account of its vast natural resources. I want to uplift the lives of the Palaweños and transform Palawan under a program loaded with high impact projects targeting transportation, communications, education, health, livelihood, and social services.”

PDP-Laban President Congressman

Jose “Pepito” Chaves Alvarez is the representative of the 2nd District of Palawan in the 19th Congress. He previously served as the Governor of the Province of Palawan from 2013 to 2022. He holds the Vice Chairmanships for the Committee on Agriculture and Food, Committee on Appropriations, Committee on East Asean Growth Area, Committee on Ecology, Committee on Natural Resources, Committee on Public Works, Committee on Tourism, and Committee on Trade and Industry. He is likewise an active member of the Committee on Cooperatives Development, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Committee on Government Reorganization, Committee on Legislative Franchises, Committee on National Defense and Security, Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, Committee on Transportation, and Committee on Ways and Means. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan. He has an extensive experience in entrepreneurship, politics, and public service. He is the founding Chairman, President, Member of the Board of Directors of several companies primarily engaged in the business of automotive manufacturing, assembly, and distribution, heavy equipment, real estate, bulk water supply, aviation, maritime, land transport, as well as private charitable foundations. He is the former Chairman of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI). At present, he is the President of Forbes Park Association, Inc. and Member of the Board of Directors of the Manila Golf and Country Club. His priorities are to provide infrastructure facilities, accessible healthcare, improve the quality of education, provide livelihood projects, and protection of the environment, for the betterment of the lives of the Palaweños.

HON. LORETO S. AMANTE (Laguna, Third District)

“I started my career in public service as an executive assistant and later becoming the city administrator under the then mayorship of my father now incumbent San Pablo City Mayor: Vicente B. Amante. From there, I felt this is my calling - to be of service to the people.

Upon the end of my father's 3rd term, I ran and got elected as city mayor for 3 consecutive terms.

CHRISTIAN TELL A. YAP (Tarlac, Second District)

“My Tatang Apeng, my Mother Susan and my Tito Vic have been my inspiration in serving the people. Their legacy and unwavering dedication for the betterment of every Tarlaqueño are paragons for public service. My advocacies and policy initiatives will focus on economic sustainability, climate change, agriculture and urban development.”

Hardworking and reliable are only some adjectives that aptly describe Rep. Yap as a district representative. From being the mayor of Victoria, Tarlac, he worked his way to the House of Representatives, armed with the support and dreams of his constituents. People know his brand of service because it’s ever-present and efficient, something they wish to experience often and share with other Filipinos. Rep. Yap maximizes his resources and power to improve the public’s quality of life.

Among Rep. Yap’s projects and programs in his district is the establishment of infrastructures like multi-purpose buildings and health centers to meet the ever-evolving demands of the people. Nonetheless, it doesn’t stop him from embracing adventure and opportunity, which he allows the public to enjoy through festivals and exhibits that also feature the vibrant community of his district.

When it comes to the 19th Congress, Rep. Yap is the brains of several bills, being their principal author, like creating the Department of Economics and Development Planning, establishing the National Rice Price Monitoring Council and the Regional Rice Monitoring Boards in all regions of the country, and providing for the Magna Carta of out-of-school youth.

“I grew up helping my dad (who was a former congressman) uplift many lives through his “makamasa” and “progresibo” brand of leadership. I want to continue helping others—to create opportunities so they can support their dreams, to fight for their rights, and to ensure that they have access to basic services they need especially if it concerns their health and education.

As a member of the 19th Congress, I am fortunate to be part of house committees that reflect my advocacies: women and gender equality, health, trade and industry, labor and employment, and education. I vow to continue supporting legislations that address concerns on education and health and nutrition. I sincerely believe that a strong education sector and a robust health system increase access of each individual to various opportunities and boosts the resilience of our country in general. We can only achieve prosperity and sustainability by having healthy and knowleageble citizens.”

Rep. Agarao, who also goes by the name Jam in her district, will never stop doing what’s honorable for her people. As her motto as a district representative goes, #AgaraoNeverStops. She’s also known as the “Trabahador Natin Sa Kongreso” because she’s ever-present in giving her constituents a significant voice in the House of Representatives. She shows how she rightfully established herself as a credible and efficient district representative. She has several initiatives accomplished in the office, including providing communities with infrastructure and equipment to increase their chances of leading better lives. Besides offering financial assistance for primary benefits like education and getting medical care, Rep. Agarao also works closely with the local government units in her district to determine how to deliver quality public service.

Having the experience in local governance, I saw the need of Local Government Units for support in view of their expanded responsibilities in light of the implementation of the Mandanas Ruling. I'm pushing for equity in the development of small municipalities having meager funds to push poverty alleviation projects and infrastructure.

Among other initiatives, establishing satellite offices (aside from my main district office in San Pablo City) is worth noting. The one in Nagcarlan Laguna is now serving thousands of my constituents monthly. Another such office will soon, rise in Calauan. This has the positive effect of bringing the services of the national government-in general and the congress in particular closer to the people.

From the many bills I authored, I'm prioritizing the passage of House Bill 00300 - An act to amend Republic Act no. 10868 otherwise known as the ‘Centenarians Act of 2016 and for other purposes.’ This bill aims to provide the elderly with benefits much earlier in their life in order for them to truly enjoy its benefits.”

Rep. Amante, or Amben as his district knows him, is an ever-present figure in his regions. Although he takes his role as a public servant seriously, he doesn’t let it keep him from making meaningful connections with his constituents. As a man of action, Rep. Amante proves that he’s ever-reliable in office to advocate for the needs of the Filipinos and come into his own as he discovers new prospects to improve their lives. The district representative had already accomplished much on his agenda within his first few months as a district representative. He oversees various projects and programs in his region, including doling out medical and financial assistance to those who require attention. Rep. Amante also raises the initiatives of rehabilitating roads in his district to

promote accessibility.

He’s also the principal author of some bills in the 19th Congress, including establishing centers for individuals with special needs in the country, instituting the Magna Carta of Filipino seafarers, and designating evacuation centers in every city and municipality.

HON. REYNANTE U. ARROGANCIA (Quezon Province, Third District)

“I grew up amidst challenging conditions in Bondoc Peninsula and through perseverance and hard work, I have managed to build a successful business. I have seen the struggles and challenges of the residents of the Bondoc Peninsula. Armed with the lessons I have learned on providing consistent, efficient, and responsive service, these are the principles I have carried with me when I decided to venture into politics.

I am humbled that the residents of the 3rd District of Quezon placed their faith in me and for the principles I adhere to as I seek to carry the challenges.”

Congressman Reynante Arrogancia’s unparalleled service and dedication to the constituents of the Third District of Quezon is anchored on the principle of “Responsableng Aruga”, ensuring the welfare and effective deliverance of services to the people of Bondoc Peninsula.

Bondoc Peninsula has witnessed a milestone as they welcomed their new Representative who conscientiously delivers responsive legislations and the utilization of institutional programs that can be of benefit to the constituents of the district such as infrastructures, social services, and other programs of the government.

As a legislator, Rep. Arrogancia remains faithful to his principle of “Responsableng Aruga” by advocating the passage of bills that adhere to environmental protection, tourism development, enhancement of agricultural services, and social protection of vulnerable sectors, among others.

HON. ERIC R. BUHAIN, OLY (Batangas, First District)

“As an Olympian who served the government in various capacity, I hope to continue serving my fellow Filipinos. In terms of policies and initiatives, tourism promotion in my District is foremost as it creates jobs that stimulates the economy. Second, promotion of programs for the development of our agriculture and aquaculture industry to help in the government’s efforts towards food security. Lastly. to champion initiatives that will make sports more accessible and inclusive for our youth.”

District representatives have many roles and responsibilities on the job. Among all the titles they can assume, Rep. Buhain took on the position of the champion of his district. There’s no nitpicking for the legislator, as he pays close attention to every sector and how he can understand his constituents and address their problems. He also encourages his public to participate in events, whether for leisure or business, to make the most of them.

Some examples of his efforts in his district are organizing vaccination drives for children, providing new opportunities to boost the tourism sector, and amplifying the vibrant culture of Batangas. He also provides medical and financial assistance for an inclusive service to his district.

As for his efforts in the House of Representatives, he’s the principal author of bills like granting health care, retirement, and other privileges to retired Filipino Olympians, strengthening the Games and Amusement Board, and promoting entrepreneurship by establishing a sustainable financing program for micro and small enterprises through the Pondo sa Pagbabago at PagAsenso Program.

HON.

JOSE ARTURO S. GARCIA JR. (Rizal, Third District)

One of the things that Filipinos in Rizal’s Third District can expect from Rep. Garcia is his guarantee of service with a heart. As a public servant, he keeps a close relationship with the people to ensure he’s up-to-date with their needs and wants, even though he anticipates their demands for development. He also watches his projects closely to ensure it gets done on time.

Rep. Garcia embraces the prospects of technology in bringing improvements to his district but also considers how it impacts the environment. He implemented solar lights along several roads and road rehabilitation projects in his jurisdiction. Rep. Garcia distributes financial assistance for various daily needs, like education, medicine, and livelihood.

His contributions to the 19th Congress include declaring the City of Cagayan de Oro a mining-free zone and providing penalties, granting tax exemptions and subsidies for the local film and music industries, and providing for the automatic income classification of provinces, cities, and municipalities.

HON. EDWARD S. HAGEDORN (Palawan, First District)

“I re-emerged in the political arena to bring holistic development in the Third District of Palawan, advocating environmental protection and preservation, and promotion of sustainable tourism. To this end, I filed bills in Congress seeking for the declaration of the West Philippine Sea as a marine protected area and reclassification of lands, among others.”

Rep. Hagedorn established his credibility with his constituents as the mayor of Puerto Princesa. He is recognized as a champion of the environment, tourism, agriculture, and peace and order throughout his years of public service making him known as the “pambansang mayor.” His tenure highlighted the award-winning Puerto Princesa Underground River as the New Seven Wonders of Nature after working for its inclusion in UNESCO’s world heritage list, and because of his sterling leadership, he was given the United Nations Global 500 Roll of Honour Award in 1997.

His experience as a long-time local executive gave him the cognizance to come into his own in the House of Representatives. In the Congress today, Rep. Hagedorn is advocating for the protection and preservation of the West Philippine Sea, reclassification of alienable and disposable lands in certain barangays of Aborlan, conversion of the Salvacion-Sabang Road that leads to the Underground River in Puerto Princesa into a national road, establishment of the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority, and the declaration of March 30 as a special non-working holiday in Puerto Princesa City in commemoration of its pronouncement as the “City of the Living God.”

Besides those legislations, the lawmaker is currently maximizing technology to promote awareness among the Palaweños about his ongoing and upcoming endeavors leading the Third District of Palawan to greater heights.

HON. CHARISSE ANNE C. HERNANDEZ-ALCANTARA (Calamba City, Lone District)

“I have been well immersed with people from all walks of life. Knowing their stories pushes me to be more compassionate, humble, and active in advocating my brand of politics. My values and aspirations promote measures that have immediate significance to the lives of my constituents - health, education, and livelihood.”

Although district representatives need to maintain an air of respect, Rep. Hernandez-Alcantara branded herself as the “Ate” or elder sister among her constituents. More than that, she also took the mantle as their champion who ensures that residents of Calamba will be aptly represented in the 19th Congress and ensures they feel the benefits from the district’s budget. Her youth brings a fresh perspective to a historically significant city in the Philippines.

Rep. Hernandez-Alcantara advocates numerous movements and empowers every community in her district. She provides materials and equipment to the youth so they can enjoy what they love doing, whether sports or arts related. Since her goal is to ensure everyone experiences the benefits from the government’s budget, she is always present to distribute assistance to the residents of Calamba.

She is also the principal author of bills in the 19th Congress, including creating policies for the protection and welfare of caregivers, instituting guidelines for the protection and promotion of the workers’s welfare or independent contractors in the film, television, and radio entertainment industry, and expanding the coverage of the mandatory basic immunization program and providing a system in the determination of other types of vaccine-preventable diseases.

HON. GERVILLE “JINKY BITRICS” R. LUISTRO (Batangas, Second District)

Rep. Luistro, also known as “Jinky Bitrics” in her district, embodies the sunshine to her constituents by inspiring them to seize the day and consider it a blessing. She’s known for her service with a smile as she works energetically with the national government and local government units to provide the advantages Filipinos deserve as the country moves toward modernization and becoming globally competitive in

various sectors or industries.

Besides distributing financial assistance from government agencies and hosting several programs to encourage communities to embrace their passions, Rep. Luistro also focuses on infrastructure and road rehabilitation initiatives in Batangas’s Second District to improve accessibility and boost the local economy and tourism as other advantages.

On the other hand, she principally authored bills in the 19th Congress, such as promoting open access in data transmission and providing additional powers to the National Telecommunications Commission, expanding the prohibited acts of discrimination against women on account of sex, providing for universal educational assistance to all senior high school, technical-vocational, and college students.

HON. MA. RENE ANN LOURDES G. MATIBAG (Laguna, First District)

“As a LaguNanay, I aim to protect the welfare of every child. Through the ratification of HB 1486, I aspire to provide equal opportunity for children to take exams despite financial obligations. I firmly believe that education will pave the way towards my dream of a bright future for our children.”

Congresswoman Ann Matibag is a champion of women empowerment and social responsibility. As the “LaguNanay on the Go,” she has proven that being a mother who nurtures and cares for her constituents and family is what her district needs. She tirelessly puts people first and advocates for the welfare of women, mothers, and children. Her programs, under the moniker “Ang Magandang Bukas,” give everyone better opportunities and access to government services to improve their quality of life and a brighter future.

Rep. Matibag’s policies advocate on behalf of all members of various communities and continues her efforts towards the actualization of her ABAKADA platform - Ayuda, BAkuna, KAbuhayan at Direksyon - through her financial, medical and burial assistances, free vaccinations for women, children, and elders, monthly medical mission for seniors, scholarship programs for the youth, livelihood opportunities to myriad sectors, including LGBT groups, and various infrastructure projects.

Rep. Matibag stays true to her role as the LaguNanay of San Pedro. She is the principal author of HB 1486 or the “Anti-No Permit, No Exam Act” which aims to protect financially disadvantaged children from discrimination and unfair treatment at school. Through this, Rep. Matibag aims to secure the bright future of our youth through education. Her initiatives in the 19th Congress through principally authored bills also include encouraging social responsibility, prohibiting any form of discrimination based on ethnicity, race, religion, age, sex, gender, orientation, language, disability, educational attainment, economic status, health, and other standards.

HON. ARNAN C. PANALIGAN (Oriental Mindoro, First District)

There’s more to Rep. Panaligan than being the Representative of the First District of Oriental Mindoro. He has the distinction of being the first City Mayor and one of the founders of Calapan City when it was converted from a municipality on March 21, 1998. He served as mayor of Calapan for two nine-year terms or a total of 18 years. His years as mayor were characterized by the rapid development of Calapan earning for him the title of The City Builder. In between his terms as city mayor, Rep. Panaligan served as Governor of Oriental Mindoro. During his term as governor, he constructed the new Oriental Mindoro Provincial Hospital. His passion for public service and dedication to the people that he serves have earned for him their trust as evidenced in the successive mandates that they have given to him as city mayor, governor and now as congressman.

Rep. Panaligan’s desire to make a difference in the lives of the people and to contribute to nation building motivated him to enter politics and seek public office. He believes that occupying an elective position is one way to make or influence policy making that can impact on the life of the nation.

That is the reason why in Congress, Rep. Panaligan has authored various bills that encompass a wide range of topics such as agriculture, economics, industry, entrepreneurship, health, education, environmental conservation, local governance, national defense and security and other vital sectors.

Although a freshman legislator, Rep. Panaligan was entrusted by the leadership of the House of Representatives headed by Speaker Martin Romualdez with a big responsibility as member of eleven vital committees and as one of the Assistant House Majority Leaders.

HON. CRISPIN DIEGO “PING” REMULLA (Cavite, Seventh District)

Following in his father’s footsteps, the younger Rep. Remulla wasted no time proving that he was beyond capable of assuming and maintaining the role of a district representative. His mission in the office is to continue the developments made before him, but with his personal touch of service that recognizes every Filipino’s relevance as a catalyst of change. He’s also a dependable father figure and efficient district representative to his constituents. Besides establishing a connection with his constituents from frequent interactions, Rep. Remulla stays on top of what goes around his district. He spearheads collaborations and efforts like doling out burial, medical, and cash assistance to those who require it, among other things.

One of his principally authored bills in the House of Representatives focuses on providing better compensation in his region and its neighboring areas, namely, a resolution urging the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to review and revise to increase the daily minimum wage rates per wage order in the CALABARZON region.

HON.

RAMON “JOLO” B. REVILLA III (Cavite, First District)

“Inclusive growth; I seek to uplift the lives of those in the significant sectors of society such as our barangay officials, health workers, teachers, laborers, and seafarers; uphold the rights of every individual, especially those in the LGBT community; and, help our youth with their education via a scholarship program while imbuing with them a vision of success coupled with service to fellow Filipinos.”

Even though some Filipinos know Rep. Revilla as an actor, to the residents of Cavite’s First District, he is their ever-reliable district representative. He brought his creativity and efficiency to the office to provide his constituents with new experiences that present opportunities to improve Filipinos’ lives.

Coming from a political family, Rep. Revilla draws inspiration and wisdom from the accomplishments of those who came before him, but didn’t shy away from making a name for himself. He is also the proponent of numerous programs available throughout Cavite’s First District, including distributing business packages to budding entrepreneurs, educational scholarships, and medical assistance. Rep. Revilla is a handson representative as he takes time to interact with his constituents during the distribution of various assistance so he can listen to their concerns, especially during the aftermath of Typhoon Paeng last November 2022, and the fire incident in Cavite City last April 2023 which affected more than 600 families.

He is also active in the House of Representatives as a principal author of various bills such as providing a P150 daily across-the-board wage increase in the employees and workers of the private sector, and granting sanitary leave of one day a month with 100 percent remuneration to all female employees.

HON. EDGARDO L. SALVAME (Palawan, First District)

“Northern Palawan—the District I represent—is the ‘World’s Best Island Destination.’ It is home to the majestic islands and beautiful beaches of Coron, El Nido, Cuyo (Amanpulo), San Vicente (Long Beach), Roxas (Banua Private Resort), Taytay (Apulit), and Cagayancillo (Tubattaha), thus, our infrastructure and quality of life should also improve, and be at par with its brand, i.e. ‘world-class infrastructure and quality of life.’ I thought I can help develop it further with my previous background and expertise in the private sector, and at the same time, give special attention to the needs of our residents from the far-flung islands and sitios myself being a local who grew up in an island (Casian, Taytay) who used to fish and trade fish as my main source of livelihood during my earlier years.

My top legislative and development agenda revolves around:

Local economic recovery and development through “land reclassification”; implementation of sustainable livelihood programs; and attraction of investments that will create sustainable industries, long-term jobs, and decent income for our people, among others; Provision of funding and support to infrastructure that will boost our recovering tourism industry in the District, such as a reliable power supply and distribution, well-equipped hospitals, and accessible healthcare system (conversion of two local hospitals into tourism medical centers),

sewerage treatment plants and drainage systems, and better roads that lead to tourism destinations and local industries, including farmlands; I’d like to see our government working for the best interest of our people, thus, I am always in full support of proposed legislations that will bring our government closer and “felt” by our people.”

Among the values, a district representative should have as a public official is a genuine compassion for the region they represent. It allows them to see what needs to be done according to the dwellers’ perspective. Being the district representative for Palawan’s First District, Rep. Salvame is creating a Palawan for those with a deep admiration and sense of patriotism for the region. Not only does he empower the Filipinos residing in the region, but he also preserves the area’s natural elements. Rep. Salvame spearheads various rehabilitation projects in his jurisdiction, like a water system project in several barangays to provide potable water to its residents. He’s also prioritizing infrastructure initiatives in far-flung islands and provinces to offer accessibility to Filipinos. The lawmaker also doles out cash assistance to farmers and other members of different communities.

Meanwhile, his efforts in the 19th Congress include regulating the use of treatment technology for municipal and hazardous wastes, providing the enabling environment to foster the growth of publicprivate partnerships for infrastructure and other development projects, and providing additional guidelines in the acquisition of right-of-way sites, or location for national government infrastructure projects.

HON. KEITH MICAH “ATTY. MIKE”D.L. TAN (Quezon Province, Fourth District)

“I want to sustain and build on the HEALING (Health, Education, Agriculture, Livelihood, Infrastructure, Nature and Environment/Tourism, and Good Governance) Agenda and advocacies of my parents. As a neophyte lawmaker, I hope to champion youth empowerment, legal assistance for the poor, and entrepreneurship.”

Besides having a passion for serving Filipinos, Rep. Tan is also a lawyer with a commendable knowledge of the statutes governing the country. He uses his expertise in the subject to establish his credibility in the House of Representatives and prove that he has the brains and heart to lead Filipinos toward a brighter tomorrow. Rep. Tan describes his service as authentic and natural because of his genuine devotion to his country and fellowmen. Rep. Tan’s programs and projects in his district have one goal: to benefit his constituents in the region. Aside from focusing on infrastructure efforts to expand opportunities, Rep. Tan also leads initiatives like assisting farmers and indigenous communities and encouraging the youth to embrace education and modern developments.

On the other hand, Rep. Tan focuses on medical endeavors in the House Representatives, having principally authored bills like providing for the modernization of the public health emergency preparedness and response capabilities, providing for the stockpiling of strategic and critical drugs and medicines, vaccines, devices, and materials for public health emergencies, and authorizing the Department of Health (DOH) to set and approve the bed capacities of all its hospitals.

HON. EMIGDIO P. TANJUATCO III (Rizal, Second District)

“The body work exemplified by my father, former Cong. Ding Tanjuatco, served as my inspiration to pursue a career in public service. After 12 years of service as a Provincial Board Member for the second district of the Province of Rizal, my current position allows me to continue to develop industry, education, and livelihood programs for the betterment of my constituents.”

Hailing from a family with a long line of history and connections in politics, Rep. Tanjuatco managed to find a way to stand out himself, and show what he could bring to the table in the House of Representatives. He works consistently and efficiently, often seen on-site across Rizal to share his expertise and lead others with a similar perspective anchored on development and creating new opportunities.

People know that Rep. Tanjuatco focuses on infrastructure projects throughout Rizal, which he frequently visits to ensure efficient, secure, and timely completion. Beyond that, he keeps his office doors open to welcome courtesy calls from organizations and everyday Filipinos who want to share their concerns and call upon his services.

In the meantime, Rep. Tanjuatco keeps busy by maintaining a presence in the House of Representatives as a principal author of bills like mandating the national government to allocate funds for potable water access and the construction of water systems in all barangays, providing a comprehensive renal replacement therapy (RRT) for patients with end-stage renal disease in national, regional, and provincial government hospitals, and institutionalizing the “Pondo Para sa Pagbabago at Pag-Asenso Program” to provide a sustainable socialized microfinancing program for micro-enterprises.

HON. LEODY “ODIE” F. TARRIELA (Occidental Mindoro, Lone District)

Despite being a neophyte in the 19 th Congress with no political background, Cong. Odie, as he is fondly called, is the congressman of Occidental Mindoro who helped resolve the province’s decades-long electricity crisis. By actively seeking support of various government agencies, he helped transform Occidental Mindoro from being the country’s “brownout capital” into a self-reliant electrification area in less than a year after assuming office. It is also during his first year as congressman that Occidental Mindoro saw a record increase in its share of national budget allocation for infrastructure, health, education, and social services, allowing the province to accelerate its socioeconomic development. He hails from the Island Municipality of Looc. Through his hardwork, he established businesses that provide livelihood for thousands of workers from his home province. He was elected Rotary Governor of R.I. District 3810 for RY 2020-2021. His active work in socio-civic organizations enabled him to further grasp the challenges faced by his people, which also became the reason why he chose to purse public service. After resolving the power crisis, Cong. Odie’s new mission is to advance government support for the agricultural sector. His House Bill 7781 seeks to establish the Cooperative Apex Bank of the Philippines to provide small farmers and fisherfolks broader access to financing pportunities, shielding them from usurious rates of loan sharks. His priority bills also include the promotion of corporate social responsibility, establishment of more government hospitals in his province, and the modernization of the Philippine Coast Guard, among others. With his passion to his work and dedication to improving the lives of his fellow Mindoreños, one can truly say that indeed Ok si Odie Tarriela!

HON. ANIELA BIANCA D. TOLENTINO (Cavite, Eight District)

“I entered this path to be able to positively touch lives and make lasting changes for future generations. Issues such as healthcare and education will always be essential, but a great deal of my advocacies focus on the environment because we often overlook the essentiality of our natural resources to human survival.”

Beauty and brains are some of the adjectives that could best describe Rep. Tolentino. As a district representative, she shines her presence on her constituents to show that she’s ready to lead them into a brighter future. She extends her compassion and service to every resident of Cavite’s Eight District, making her one of the topperforming lawmakers in the region. Rep. Tolentino’s constituents also know her for her warm smile and endearing personality.

Rep. Tolentino distributes various assistance programs to her district’s residents, whether young, old, or from underserved communities. She doesn’t choose who to serve as her services encompass those under her jurisdiction. The district representative also encourages Filipinos to embrace the changes brought about by technological advancements.

She’s also the principal author of various bills in the House of Representatives like regulating the disposal of electronic equipment at solid waste management facilities and requiring the establishment of recovery and collection facilities, establishing a national scholarship program for studies in nuclear science and nuclear engineering, and allowing the use of wasteto-energy technology in electricity, fuel, and heat generation.

Getting to know the outstanding district representatives of Regions V, VI, and VII

By Patricia taculao

TOWARDS the middle of the Philippine archipelago lies the bustling areas of Regions V, VI, and VII, or the Bicol, Western Visayas, and Central Visayas regions. Each part plays a specific yet equally relevant role in contributing to the Philippines’ cultural identity. It’s one of the reasons why these regions deserve public servants who bring new ideas to the table yet have a strong sense of patriotism that allows them to put Filipinos first.

Amid all the concerns the government has to address for the benefit of Filipinos, the House of Representatives remains stalwart in giving everyday citizens a voice in Congress and prioritizing the people’s welfare today and in the future. The new faces in the 19th Congress continue to uphold the House’s legislative functions while building deep and lasting connections with the public.

HON. MARIA VANESSA C. AUMENTADO (Bohol, Second District)

If there’s one specific goal Rep. Aumentado wants to achieve as a district representative, it’s to inspire her constituents to move forward, which Filipinos know as “abante.” Her on-thego and diligent attitude is refreshing to witness as she also takes great care to preserve the developments her district achieved under her leadership. Rep. Aumentado is also a registered nurse, which allows her to share insights on topics revolving around health, among other things.

She is a staunch advocate of education and the youth, often lauding teachers and providing students with infrastructures, plans, and materials to improve conditions and encourage them to pursue their studies. Rep. Aumentado, also known as Van-Van, also pushes for the significance of vaccines in health. The lady lawmaker has more to offer, and her constituents are happy to have her handle the reins.

On the other hand, she also has relevant contributions to the House of Representatives through principallyauthored bills, including upgrading the basic salary of government medical doctors from salary grade 21 to salary grade 23, strengthening the governance and management of the Philippine Science High School system, and converting the municipality of Ubay in the province of Bohol into a component city to be known as the Science City of Ubay.

HON. MARIA CYNTHIA K. CHAN (Lapu-Lapu City, Lone District)

“It was during the first term in office of my better half, Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan, that I decided to devote myself to public service. Working alongside him, I realized that an empowered leadership makes a world of difference in the lives of our people. I have thus made it my mission to champion our people’s causes in Congress particularly in terms of infrastructure, education, health, and livelihood.”

Rep. Chan’s motto as a public servant is “Cindi Cares” because she’s a passionate humanitarian who wants only the best for the people and will do everything she can to provide such conditions. She’s a force of her own who keeps her district on its feet through various events and initiatives meant to empower and inspire. Rep. Chan also put Lapu-Lapu on the map as a mustvisit tourist destination.

The lady lawmaker is also a staunch advocate of women’s rights and helps raise awareness about their privileges, and provides them with opportunities to highlight their skills and talents in their respective industries. Rep. Chan is also active in doling out provisions and financial assistance to communities who need it most.

As for her efforts in the 19th Congress, Rep. Chan is the principal author of bills like creating the LapuLapu City District Engineering Office, converting the Cebu Technological University into a university system to be known as the “Cebu Technological University System,” and requiring the establishment of dialysis clinics in all national, regional, and provincial hospitals and providing free dialysis treatments to indigenous patients.

HON. MARIE BERNADETTE G. ESCUDERO (Sorsogon, First District)

“My motivation has always been to create positive and meaningful change in the lives of my constituents in Sorsogon.

As a neophyte legislator, my goal is to champion policies that ensure equal access to education, foster inclusivity, and promote gender equality and opportunities for all.”

Hailing from a political family, it’s up to Rep. Escudero to continue their family legacy and provide quality public service in her district. Nonetheless, the lady lawmaker has established herself as a reliable public servant with a fresh perspective to bring about change and development. She’s always on the go to find solutions to address modern Filipinos’s demands but never fails to put her people first.

Rep. Escudero is an advocate of education and proper nutrition for indigenous children. Yet besides offering educational assistance to her young constituents, the district representative also spearheads infrastructure projects. She has turned over and inaugurated multi-purpose halls and road connectors to numerous barangays to promote accessibility and increase livelihood opportunities, among other things.

In the meantime, Rep. Escudero principally authored bills like prohibiting merchandising stores and service establishments from charging more than the retail cash price of goods and services purchased with credit cards, reducing wastage by donating and recycling excess edible food, and the Philippine Immigration Act.

HON. WOWO FORTES (Sorsogon, Second District)

Rep. Fortes initially pursued a priestly vocation from the Society of Jesus [Jesuits]-run San Jose Major but eventually pursued a law degree from the Order of Benedictines-run San Beda College. He served the government in various appointed career positions, from Branch Clerk of the Court of Sorsogon Regional Trial Court-Branch 52 to City Administrator and City Legal Officer of Sorsogon City to Provincial Administrator of Sorsogon Province.

A natural leader, politics visited him early on and he served as Municipal Councilor in the then Municipality of Sorsogon, now Sorsogon City He actively cooperated in the causes of the National Young Legislators of the Philippines. Politics [and the public] favored him with several other elected positions. From Municipal Mayor of Barcelona, Sorsogon to Vice-Governor of Sorsogon Province to Congressman of the Second Congressional District of Sorsogon Province. That s a timespan from 2010 through the present.

To date, he has authored eighty-one bills manifesting his growth mindset and pro-people, pro-poor bent. One example of his most remarkable contributions is the establishment of the Philippine Blood Center to ensure the constant blood supply needed by our public health facilities. Rep. Fortes also filed an act institutionalizing the community-driven development approach as a national strategy for inclusive growth and social protection, which focuses on the income growth of LGUs, among other bills.

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examples of his principally authored bills include enhancing the continuing professional development of Filipino professionals as an integral component of career progression and specialization programs, establishing a multi-species marine hatchery in the municipality of Argao, province of Cebu, and promoting entrepreneurship by establishing a sustainable financing program for micro and small enterprises through the “Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-Asenso Program.”

HON. RHEA MAE A. GULLAS (Cebu, First District)

“The success behind the dedicated service of my husband, former Congressman Gerald Anthony Gullas, gave me the greatest motivation to pursue a career in politics. My important agenda are women empowerment and environment.

I will craft bills to ensure the role of women in facing the challenges of an increasingly changing environment.”

Using a play on her name, Rep. Gullas’ motto as a district representative is “Rheady to help. Rheady to serve,” proving her eagerness and determination to carry out her duties and responsibilities. Although she has other roles, like a devoted mother and loving wife, she never runs out of time and energy to accomplish her goals, like bringing Filipinos toward modernization while preserving their vibrant culture.

Rep. Gullas supports the youth’s prospects of bringing change to the Philippines. Whether in sports or academics, the district representative shows her support in various ways. In the meantime, she also provides financial assistance to people in her district to help them lead better lives. However, Rep. Gullas also holds fun and exciting events that allow her constituents to experience advantages that could positively impact their lives.

Her contributions to the 19th Congress include providing for the Cebu Light Rail Transport System for operation in Cebu City and Metro Cebu, promoting Philippine indigenous and traditional writing systems and providing for their protection, preservation, and conservation, and creating a tripartite council to address unemployment, underemployment, and the job-skills mismatch problem in the country.

HON. TSUYOSHI ANTHONY G. HORIBATA (Camarines Sur, First District)

“Despite being the first politician in my family, public service runs deep in my veins. Inspired by my mother’s philanthropy, which has opened my eyes to the bad state of our district, I’m committed to serving the First District of Camarines Sur. With a vision for cacao/agriculture excellence and captivating tourism, I wish to transform the district into a thriving hub, securing a prosperous future for my constituents.”

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‘Aton g Ami g o ’ w hich means “our fri end ” i s how I desc ribe myself as a district representative. I c h a mp io n c o l l a borati o n and dialogue with all sectors and s egm en ts of society to effect change and development. For m e, g rassroot c o nsultation and cooperation will bring th e solutions the pe o ple d esire to s ee in their district, h en c e m y m o t to, ‘ K ita ang S ol usyo n’ ( We are the so l utio n) ” Rep. Galeos sets an example of how collaborative efforts between his office and the public will bring the solutions they desire to see in their district.

The district representative provides recreational activities, like sports camps, to encourage the youth to embrace their passions and enhance their abilities. Besides that, he supports the growth of the local economy and livelihood opportunities, with some efforts to construct various infrastructures throughout his jurisdiction. Rep. Galeos also offers education assistance to working students to keep them from giving up on their studies.

As for his initiatives in the 19th Congress, some

Famously known as “Hori,” the district representative advocates technological advancements in his jurisdiction because of the opportunities it presents in society. He’s frequently out and about to perform his tasks efficiently but always smiling as he interacts with the public. Rep. Horibata is also a simple individual who embraces the serenity of the environment, setting an example that the past and future can merge seamlessly. He aims for his district to be known for cacao production and ultimately be the central cacao hub in terms of cacao cultivation in South Luzon, and possibly the whole country in the future.

One example of his efforts in his district is conducting e-sports competitions to allow the youth to show their talents in a new and modern arena. There are also projects and programs like providing infrastructures to improve the quality of living or working and distributing wheelchairs to the elders. Rep. Horibata is also talking with possible investors and different officials, most notably and recently the Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss, to improve the agriculture sector and bolster the cacao production in the district.

In the House of Representatives, he principally authored bills like establishing a National Economic Stimulus and Recovery Fund, promoting the adoption of digital payments for financial transactions of the government and all merchants, and institutionalizing the use of digital technology in the public education system. The district representative is also focusing on legislation that will create more opportunities for his constituents, not just in agriculture, but also in economics.

EDSEL A. GALEOS (Cebu, Second District)

HON. DAPHNE A. LAGON (Cebu, Sixth District)

“Both coming from humble beginnings, neither me nor my husband, ever thought of getting into politics. Fate had it that Congressman Sonny was invited to represent the Ako Bisaya Party List and he thought that it was a good avenue for him to pay it forward. Seeing how passionate he is in his public service, I got into politics as well and the rest is history. The Sixth District of Cebu is now a fast-growing residential, commercial, industrial and tourism center. Cordova is no longer the sleepy fishing village it used to be and Consolacion is now a bustling home to several medium and large-scale industries. As such, it is incumbent upon me to provide the policy framework that will enable the two municipalities to achieve their highest potentials as significant components of Metro Cebu and contribute to the over-all development of Cebu Province, in particular, and the country, in general - all this while espousing our brand of public service built around the provision of immediate and prompt response to the needs of our constituencies.”

Among the values that Filipinos expect to see from their public leaders, promptness sits high on their lists. That’s why Rep. Lagon dedicates herself to providing “Aksyon Dayon,” or immediate action. Rain or shine, the lady lawmaker doesn’t let anything keep her from taking on the mantle of a district representative and interacting with her fellow Filipinos to understand how she can best voice their concerns.

Rep. Lagon spearheads the distribution of financial assistance to chosen beneficiaries, whether young or old. She also uses her platform to share experiences, like instigating exercise sessions or raffles, to keep her constituents excited, healthy, and empowered. She also works closely with local government units, such as barangays, to efficiently meet her public’s demands.

She’s also the principal author of numerous bills in the 19th Congress that aim to benefit her district and the Visayas, such as establishing a specialty hospital in Cebu City to specialize in kidney and allied diseases to be known as the Visayas Kidney Institute, declaring January as the annual Visayan Heritage Month, and establishing a specialty school in Cebu City to specialize in the arts, to be known as the Visayas School for the Arts.

HON. ANTONIO B. LEGARDA JR. (Antique, Lone District)

“I find inspiration from my great grandfather Ariston Gella, who was the representative of Antique to the Malolos Congress, also from my manang, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda, so you could say that public service runs in our blood. As Congressman, I want to focus on tourism, sports and livelihood as these will significantly improve the lives of my kasimanwa.”

Having ties to Senator Loren Legarda, being her brother, the district representative decided to step away from her shadow and build his credibility in the House of Representatives. Nonetheless, he maintains the Legarda legacy in politics by providing prompt and quality service. Today, the residents of Antique know him as an active lawmaker who’s present through ups and downs and brings them exciting experiences and opportunities.

Rep. Legarda is open to working with other government agencies. One example is establishing a Technical Education And Skills Development Authority (TESDA) center in his district. He also leads financial assistance distributions in his jurisdiction as an avenue to meet and interact with Filipinos. The lawmaker also conducts events like concerts and competitions to highlight Antique’s culture.

For the 19th Congress, Rep. Legarda played a relevant role as a principal author of bills such as institutionalizing the “One Tablet, One Student” program for all students enrolled in the public schools, state universities, and colleges, the Magna Cartas of private and public school teachers, and promoting food forest gardening.

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RICARDO T. KHO (Masbate, First District)

“I am inspired by the great potential I have always seen in the province of Masbate. Now, as a young leader and public servant,Iintend to help realize this potential through my hands-on initiative and fresh perspective. Education, infrastructure, and opportunities for livelihood and employment are my top priorities in working toward the end goal of providing a better quality of life for my fellow Masbateños and the future generations.”

Don’t be misled by Rep. Kho’s fresh face. Underneath his confident facade and smiles, he is a hardworking lawmaker whose primary goal is to advance the socio-economic growth of Masbate’s First District. Rep. Kho, who also goes by Richard, always knows how to handle the situation and uses his knowledge in the

law and financial management to heed the public’s concerns. Under his leadership, Masbateños are happy to attest that they are empowered to progress towards a brighter future. Among Rep. Kho’s many efforts in his district is providing assistance to students, farmers, fisherfolk, those medically ill, and persons with disabilities. The district representative also heads distribution initiatives to support every barangay and sector’s growth. In the House of Representatives, Rep. Kho is the principal author of bills such as granting tax exemption for fertilizers and pesticides used in rice, corn, and sugar production; creating a regional trial court in San Pascual, Burias, Masbate; and creating a mandatory department head position for human resource management in all local government units

HON. OLGA “ARA” T. KHO (Masbate, Second District)

“Growing up, I saw and felt my parents’ passion to serve our fellow Masbateños. I witnessed their exemplary brand of leadership- one with integrity, good governance, and genuine concern for the people. Both of my parents led and are still leading by example, and this inspired me to follow in their footsteps.

When it comes to policy changes or initiatives, I would like to champion economic prosperity and job creation, healthcare access and reform, education and skill development, environmental sustainability, social justice and equality, public safety and criminal justice reform, and infrastructure and transportation.”

Among all the things that Rep. Kho hopes to accomplish in her district, it’s to lead them efficiently toward progress as she aspires to see her constituents succeed and live accordingly. Although Rep. Kho shares some responsibility in public service with her family, she’s inspired by her love for her district, making her a force to be reckoned with by herself as she guides her constituents as she sees fit.

Some of her efforts in the district include distributing financial assistance to various community members and donating school materials and equipment to improve the educational quality that the youth of Masbate receives. She also offers government internships to help Filipinos find a source of livelihood and realize their passion for public service.

For her contributions to the House of Representatives, she penned bills such as upgrading teachers’minimum salary grade level from salary grade 11 to salary grade 19, providing for the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers, and establishing evacuation centers in every city and municipality.

HON. ROSEMARIE C. PANOTES (Camarines Norte, Second District)

“I belong to a breed of persons fated to enjoy immense popularity not only in the Second District but in the entire Province of Camarines Norte. Having been born from a family of public servants, I have no other choice, as the only “heir to the throne” being an unica hija but to follow their footprints to continue the family’s legacy of public service. My father, the late, Elmer Panotes, served as Mayor of the capital town of Daet, Camarines Norte for three (3) consecutive terms.

His outstanding services to this capital town amply rewarded him when he was elected as the Representative of the Second District of Camarines Norte. When my father succumbed to prostate cancer, my mother, the late Congresswoman Marisol Conejos Panotes, yielded to the popular clamor to run, fortunately she won, and succeeded my father. Again, when my mother died, I need to pursue what they had started. Politics then is not new to me as I had served as Chief Political Affairs Officer of my late mother. I only have to follow the template of outstanding public service of my parents, which is mainly to protect the welfare of the poor and help them have access to quality education for investment in knowledge always pays the best interest. As a nurse by profession, I also supported measures advocating the protection of health workers rights, incentives and benefits, and also the right to health of the people.”

When carrying out her duties and responsibilities as a district representative, Rep. Panotes is prompt and efficient, avoiding all unnecessary ado. Moreover, she also values transparency, among other principles, because she wants to demonstrate to her constituents that she’s reliable and capable of giving them the ideal representation they deserve in Congress. She also upholds a standard of service that she hopes would benefit the Filipinos.

Rep. Panotes keeps a close eye on the comings and goings in her district. However, she doesn’t close her doors to opportunities to improve the public’s living conditions. For instance, she inspects infrastructure projects from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). On the other hand, she also doles out financial assistance to improve the lives of Camarines Norte’s Second District residents.

The lady lawmaker is also keen on imposing legislation to create balance and efficiency in the country. Some examples are institutionalizing the granting of Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), authorizing local sanggunians of municipalities and cities, except in Metropolitan Manila, to designate tricycle lanes in public

roads or highways within their respective territorial jurisdiction, and mandating the Department of Education (DepEd) to integrate gardening in the secondary school curriculum in both public and private schools.

HON. EDUARDO ROA RAMA JR. (Cebu City, Second District)

As many people say, “Age is just a number.” And that’s what Rep. Rama hopes to prove while in office. Despite being younger than most lawmakers in the House of Representatives, Rep. Rama doesn’t let it get in the way of his duties. He boasts 18 years of experience in public service, bringing an ideal combination of youth and wisdom to his efforts throughout Cebu City’s Second District.

Since he values his youth as a public servant, Rep. Rama also recognizes the prospects of the younger generations in nation-building. Besides empowering them through quality education, he promotes their interests in recreational activities like sports. In the meantime, Rep. Rama also offers financial assistance to individuals affected by crises or calamities and raises awareness about available livelihood opportunities.

Rep. Rama’s principally authored bills in the 19th Congress include creating the Metropolitan Cebu Development Authority (MCDA), providing protection for sharks, rays, and chimaeras in the Philippines, and enabling the people’s constitutional right to access information.

HON. EULOGIO “LEO” R. RODRIGUEZ (Catanduanes, Lone District)

District representatives have goals set for their constituents. As for Rep. Rodriguez, he hopes to inspire Catanduanes residents to be alert and prepared for whatever may come their way. Due to his attentiveness and eagerness to fulfill his roles, his constituents turn to him in times of need to voice their concerns and receive equally efficient solutions from his office. Rep. Rodriguez also keeps a close eye on the completion of his priority projects to benefit the public.

The district representative has a keen eye for detail, allowing him to determine what his community needs, whether it’s as minute as a flagpole for schools or doling out mobile services that cater to the various demands of his constituents. He also takes time from his busy schedule to go around the district and interact with the residents.

He extends his concerns for his constituents and the Filipinos in the House of Representatives, having principally authored bills such as establishing the Catanduanes People Center and creating the Catanduanes People Center Authority, specifying the retirement benefits for subsistence farmers and fisherfolk, and designating a Multispecies Freshwater and Saltwater Fish Hatchery and Research Center in the municipality of Bato, province of Catanduanes.

HON. ZALDY S. VILLA (Siquijor, Lone District)

While some public servants choose to take centerstage to demonstrate their abilities in the office, Rep. Villa takes a more subtle approach. But don’t mistake his humble demeanor for anything beyond that. The district representative is a dedicated leader who wishes to see his constituents succeed as he cheers them on. The public he serves has confidence in him and the benefits he brings to Siquijor.

Apart from doling out assistance payouts within his district, Rep. Villa also frequently conducts courtesy calls to listen to what the public, government, and private organizations have to say. This allows Rep. Villa to get a fresh perspective on how to handle things. He will not rest easy until he knows he met the goal of developing Siquijor into a modern province that can adapt to the future’s demands.

In the meantime, Rep. Villa is the principal author of bills like defining and penalizing the crime of criminal neglect of vulnerable elders or persons with disability, providing for a coastal tourism planning development program, and establishing welfare homes for underprivileged persons.

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MIGUEL LUIS R. VILLAFUERTE (Camarines Sur, Fifth District)

“Having been born to a family of public servants, I have witnessed firsthand their genuine compassion and dedication to serving our townspeople. Since then, I have constantly desired to devote my life to doing the same

As I embark on my new role and mission in the People’s House, I intend to craft effective and responsive policies that are geared toward the needs of my constituents. I also seek to support programs that advocate for inclusive growth and development, government digitization, community resilience, and youth engagement in agriculture, among others.”

Emerging as the epitome of an inspiring leader of his generation, Rep. Miguel Luis “Migz” R. Villafuerte has the distinction of being the youngest-elected governor in Philippine history, having been elected as the governor of the Province of Camarines Sur at the age of 24.

Region VIII ‘s new voices in the House of Representatives

By Patricia taculao

LOCATED in the Visayas, the Eastern Visayas (Region VIII) has much to offer in nation-building.

Although popularly known for the longest and most welldesigned bridge–the San Juanico Bridge–Eastern Visayas is also known for the rich culture of its locals, seen in its festivals, traditions, and more.

These distinctions and potential show how much the region requires capable voices for representation in the House of Representatives. In the 19th Congress, newly appointed district representatives took on the responsibility as the champions of their respective districts for a brighter future.

HON. RICHARD I. GOMEZ (Leyte, Fourth District)

“I believe in the Filipino. I want to serve our countrymen because I want to show them that we can be as good as our first-world country counterparts. Thus, my legislative agenda centers on peace and order, strengthening the fight against illegal drugs, food security, and the development of agriculture.”

Thanks to his promising career in showbiz, Rep. Gomez, who also goes by the moniker “Goma,” gained public attention. But besides his passion for entertaining people with his acting skills, he found a new calling that allows him to serve the public with more relevance.

Before becoming a district representative, Rep. Gomez served as Ormoc City’s Mayor from 2016 to 2022, earning more experience and inspiration that pushed him to become a better public leader.

Getting to know...

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Following his impressive stint as a three-term governor, he earned a seat at the 19th Congress as the Representative of the 5th District of Camarines Sur, with Vice Chairmanship positions in the Committees on Local Government, Agriculture and Food, and Information and Communications Technology.

Rep. Villafuerte intends to make full use of his fresh mandate in the Lower Chamber by pushing for measures that fulfill his campaign promise to his beloved Rinconada District—improving access to social services and economic opportunities even in the remotest of towns. His legislative priorities include championing measures that support his advocacies such as: promoting social justice and good governance; strengthening environmental protection and community resilience; improving quality of education and healthcare services; empowering youth through sports development programs; and accelerating digitalization in the country.

Rep. Villafuerte has authored several measures that have recently been passed by the House including the SIM Card Registration Act, Government Financial Institutions (GFIs) Unified Initiatives to Distressed Enterprises for Economic Recovery (GUIDE) Act, E-Governance Act, Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers Act, among others.

HON. EMILIO BERNARDINO L. YULO (Negros Occidental, Fifth District)

Rep. Yulo has become a household name in Negros Occidental because of his efforts in politics and his expertise as a lawyer. He goes by the moniker Atty. Dino and his constituents can attest to his hardwork, which always bears fruit. Although he knows he’s the leader everyone looks up to, Rep. Yulo doesn’t forget to appreciate those around him who play an equally significant part in bringing the Filipinos to the future.

The district representative is a dedicated champion of Negros Occidental’s vibrant culture and community. But when challenges arise in his jurisdiction, Rep. Yulo is a man of action and is always ready to lend a helping hand. He also empowers the youth through various programs to help them unlock their full potential and become the new leaders of tomorrow.

As for his initiatives in the 19th Congress, Rep. Yulo is the principal author of bills such as strengthening the technical, vocational, and livelihood curriculum for the senior high school, establishing an anti-rabies center in each congressional district nationwide, and designating one audio-visual center in each public elementary and high school.

His administration successfully eliminated illegal drugs in Ormoc, making Ormoc one of the safest cities in the Philippines. With such a foundation, and Ormoc enjoying peace and order, he brought in numerous investors, and, thus, uplifted the city’s economic development. In turn, making Ormoc the richest city in Region 8.

Many Filipinos consider Rep. Gomez as their friend in Congress who listens to their concerns and acts accordingly. Yet besides establishing firm connections with his constituents through regular visits around his district, Rep. Gomez is also a staunch advocate of sports, culture, and the arts.

Rep. Gomez is equally active in his new position in the 19th Congress. He’s the principal author of the bill institutionalizing a comprehensive National Sports Development Program centered on the Philippine National Games, and a co-author of significant bills such as protecting consumers and merchants engaged in internet transactions by creating the Electronic Commerce Bureau and establishing the Institute of Infectious Diseases and Immunology.

HON. LUZ V. MERCADO (Southern Leyte, First District)

“The primary consideration for me to pursue a career in politics is to sustain, if not accelerate, the momentum of economic progress in my district, gained over the years through the earnest conscientious efforts of my immediate predecessor.

During my term, I will be espousing a consultative method of planning and implementation of programs and projects, so that the outcome is reflective of the genuine needs and aspirations of my constituents.”

Being a district representative entails significant responsibility, but Rep. Mercado doesn’t run from a challenge. Instead, she keeps firm in her decisions, showing her constituents that she’s ready to lead them to a progressive tomorrow. Despite her strength, Rep. Mercado also exudes an air of humility and openness that encourages Filipinos to lean on her whenever they need a guide down the right path to create holistic growth in the country.

She’s often out and about in her district to oversee the developments that her constituents can enjoy, whether it’s financial assistance or the completion of infrastructure products.

Rep. Mercado also recognizes the youth’s potential through quality education and encourages them to pursue their studies and be the catalysts of change the district needs.

In the House of Representatives, Rep. Mercado is the principal author of numerous bills, including institutionalizing the Whole of Nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, creating a national task force to end local communist armed conflict, and directing the adoption of a National Peace Framework. Other examples are declaring the Southern Leyte province into a tourism zone and establishing a banana tissue culture laboratory in Maasin City, Southern Leyte.

HON. HARRIS CHRISTOPHER M. ONGCHUAN (Northern Samar, Second District)

“Before I was elected as Congressman, I was Municipal Mayor of my hometown, Laoang, in Northern Samar. As such, I was able to witness and identify the various needs of my constituents. What motivated me to pursue a career in politics is the fulfillment that I was able to help other people. I want the people to feel that government exists. Hence, it has always been my policy that in the utilization of government resources, the basic needs of the people, must be the primordial consideration.”

Service with a smile. That’s one way of describing Rep. Ongchuan and what he does for his district. But don’t be taken by his calm, collected, and enthusiastic behavior. The district representative is serious about getting the job done as he advocates for education, health, and the development of his district. The Ongchuan name has since become a trusted name in the House of Representatives for Northern Samar’s Second District. Among all the services that Rep. Ongchuan prioritizes the most in his district, he gives significant attention to ensuring access to free and effective medical services by bringing the services to the constituents themselves. The services include ECG, X-Ray, ultrasound, consultations, and providing medicine like vitamins and antibiotics—a new development in the delivery of mobile medical services. Meanwhile, Ongchuan pushed for numerous bills in the 19th Congress, including his principally authored ones like granting appropriate civil service eligibility to contractual temporary and coterminous government employees under certain conditions, providing for the creation of mental health centers in every region, and the use of neo-ethnic textiles in the academic regalia of state and local universities and colleges.

HON. STEPHEN JAMES T. TAN (Samar, First District)

If there’s one thing Rep. Tan, who also goes by Jimboy, hopes to achieve as a district representative, it’s acting on opportunities that will lead to the Filipinos’ progress. He hopes that by merging service with compassion, he’ll be efficient in providing for his constituents and creating a united community where people from Samar understand how harmony is a key to unlocking new opportunities.

Rep. Tan isn’t one to stay firmly behind an office desk. He conducts regular visits around his district to determine any areas for improvement. One example is how he visits schools in his jurisdiction with his team to plan how to meet the school’s demands and provide quality education and comfort to its students and teachers.

As for the House of Representatives, Rep. Tan also makes his voice heard, especially his people’s, through his principally authored bills like creating a comprehensive policy enabling youth participation in adolescent pregnancy prevention, strengthening the Filipino youth involvement in agriculture and entrepreneurship, and establishing a green public procurement program for all branches of government.

HON. REYNOLDS MICHAEL T. TAN (Samar, Second District)

“I saw, through my mother, that with the right motivations and a strong desire to help those in need, as Governor and now Congressman, I can push for and implement initiatives that would improve the lives of Samarnons. My priorities are reforms in the fields of housing, health and social services.”

Like every other member of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tan works long and hard to provide for his people’s needs. When he’s not traveling around the district to see any changes, he keeps his office door open to talk with other public leaders or everyday Filipinos to get a fresh perspective on how to achieve his goals for the district, especially since he’s a man of action.

Besides working tirelessly in the House of Representatives to lobby for his constituents’ and every Filipino’s rights, Rep. Tan also advocates culture and the arts, often highlighting Samar’s beauty in various aspects. In the meantime, he maximizes his online platform to go beyond the usual information gathering and sharing purpose, as he uses it to create interaction with his constituents.

On the other hand, some examples of his contributions to the 19th Congress include bills like enhancing the continuing professional development of Filipino professionals as an integral component of career progression and specialization programs, strengthening the powers and functions of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, and developing the tikog industry by creating the Banig Subsidy Fund, the Tikog Research and Development Center, and declaring Basey, Samar as the Banig Capital of the Philippines.

HON. ANNA VICTORIA VELOSO-TUAZON (Leyte, Third District)

“While a career in politics was never part of the plan, I choose to be part of the solution, working to be the change we want to see. To amplify impact for the Third District of Leyte, I leverage networks in heritage, education, sustainable livelihood and tourism, climate action, and the attainment of SDGs.”

When Filipinos think of older sisters (or Ates), they think of someone they can depend on when times get rough and someone to celebrate achievements with. That’s the image Rep. Veloso-Tuazon positioned herself as a district representative: as an “Ate ng Bayan.” She focuses on providing scholarships and livelihoods while promoting the district’s tourism. She frequently highlights the region’s social, environmental, gastronomical, and cultural resources.

She also advocates the academe’s potential by recognizing their efforts in providing new information to expand their opportunities, thus encouraging others to witness how proper research bears results. Rep. Veloso-Tuazon also uses her online presence to keep her constituents well-informed about any disturbances, like extreme weather conditions, to prepare them for any incidents.

Rep. Veloso-Tuazon is also the principal author of bills in the 19th Congress, such as providing for the right of married women to retain their maiden surnames, creating the Eastern Visayas Development Authority (EVDA), and rightsizing the national government to improve public service delivery.

HON. CHRISTOPHERSON “COCO” M. YAP (Southern Leyte, Second District)

Rep. Yap, also known as Coco in his district, is another prime example of genuine service in Eastern Visayas. People know him for his compassion and for actively providing the constituents with their demands. Besides that, he also preserves the cultural identity of Southern Leyte by respecting its culture and history. Rep. Yap is also keen on working with other public leaders to bring results that benefit all.

The district representative values empowering grassroots communities. He focuses on boosting his district’s coconut industry, all while doling out financial aid for medical assistance, among others. He also embraces his online presence and platform, encouraging others to utilize its opportunities and equip them for a more technologically-inclined future.

In the meantime, some of his contributions to the House of Representatives include bills like establishing the National Center for Geriatric Health and Research Institute, providing free annual medical check-ups for Filipinos, and strengthening the national program to eliminate tuberculosis.

The solid foundations of Regions IX, X, and XI

By Patricia taculao

ON THE island of Mindanao lie the Zamboanga, Northern Mindanao, and Davao Regions, or Regions IX, X, and XI, respectively. It is where some of the early settlers established their communities and became the foundations of modern civilizations. Modern Filipinos living in the area now embrace the comforts of the contemporary world while preserving their centuries-long traditions.

It is relevant for Northern Mindanao and the Davao Region locals to live accordingly to the foundations that early settlers and modern leaders established to progress efficiently into the future without compromising their national and cultural identity. Hence, they decided to elect individuals who share similar perspectives into the 19th Congress as they lead with tenacity and compassion. On the other hand, the Zamboanga Region is the first export-processing zone in Mindanao, with fishing and farming as the primary economic activities.

HON. JOSE MANUEL F. ALBA (Bukidnon, First District)

Rep. Jose Manuel F. Alba, or Cong. Joeman to his constituents, was driven to pursue a career in politics by his deep-rooted motivation to serve his community and make a positive difference in people's lives. Witnessing the challenges faced by individuals in his constituency, he felt compelled to take action and become their advocate in shaping policies that address their needs and aspirations.

As someone new to this position, he is eager to champion specific policy changes and initiatives that align with his core values and vision for his constituents. Two key areas that resonate strongly with him are financial literacy and bamboo economic enterprise program.

Firstly, he firmly believes in the transformative power of financial literacy. Empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions can significantly impact their lives and uplift entire communities. He intends to champion initiatives that integrate financial literacy into our education system, into the workplace and ensuring that our youth are equipped with the tools to navigate the complexities of personal finance and build a strong foundation for their future.

Secondly, his bamboo economic enterprise program hold immense potential for sustainable development and economic growth. Bamboo is a versatile resource that can address various needs, from environmental conservation to poverty alleviation. He aims to advocate for policies that promote and maximize utilization of bamboo. By supporting a thriving bamboo industry, we can create employment opportunities, protect our environment, and contribute to sustainable development in our country.

Rep. Alba’s commitment is anchored on championing policy changes that aims to empower individuals, foster sustainable development, and create a brighter future for the people of the First District of Bukidnon.

HON. CHEENO MIGUEL D. ALMARIO (Davao Oriental, Second District)

Being a district representative, Rep. Almario doesn’t position himself above the people. Instead, he poses himself as a friend to all. He celebrates his people and what they can do for the community. Rep. Almario also has a fresh perspective on leadership by continuing established programs by earlier district representatives while experimenting with other projects to see which works in his region and create new opportunities and experiences for his constituents.

An advocate of the youth, Rep. Almario spearheads events that inspire the younger generations to pursue their interests, enjoy the moment, and explore new horizons beyond their comfort zones. He also encourages people to maximize technological advancements in promoting accessibility and as a gateway to advancing in modern times.

His efforts in the 19th Congress are evident in his principally authored bills like reverting to the national government the discharge of primary health services of the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center, strengthening the mental health services of state universities and colleges, and establishing the public schools of the future.

HON.

JASON P. ALMONTE (Misamis Occidental, First District)

“My journey into politics is fueled by a heartfelt dedication to being a public servant who connects with people on a personal level while seizing opportunities that make a meaningful impact on their lives by advocating policies that focus on accessible healthcare and education, and empowering local businesses and industries.”

Progress within his district is what Rep. Almonte hopes to inspire as a public leader. He keeps himself productive with the various responsibilities he must uphold throughout Misamis Occidental’s First District and the House of Representatives. Despite the number of tasks he must accomplish, Rep. Almonte doesn’t let the quality of his service to the people diminish and shows them that his dedication to their welfare is permanent.

The district representative keeps his door open to courtesy calls and collaborations with government agencies and personalities or private organizations. Rep. Almonte keeps a close eye on what happens in his district so he can act with solutions accordingly. In the meantime, he also sees the completion of infrastructure projects to make life easier for everyone.

For the 19th Congress, he’s the principal author of bills like granting the Magna Carta for daycare workers, instituting a National Comprehensive Program for the early detection of developmental delays and disabilities in children aged zero to five, and establishing evacuation centers in every city and municipality.

ADRIAN MICHAEL A. AMATONG

HON.

(Zamboanga del Norte, Third District)

“The goal of reducing poverty in our district, where more than 50 percent of the constituents are impoverished, motivated me to pursue a career in politics. I strive to establish a special economic zone focused on expertquality smoked fish and rubber and coconut products. I make healthcare accessible to my constituents by providing them with the necessary assistive devices and making sure that they do not have to pay their hospital bills. For the environment, we’ve planted 25,000 seedlings, mostly narra.”

Finding a district representative with genuine intentions can be challenging at times. However, Rep. Amatong made it easy for his constituents by showing them he could give the ideal service to benefit everyone in his district. Rep. Amatong maintains an air of decorum that demonstrates his authority over a situation and keeps his cool during complications. On the other hand, he’s open-minded to change and welcomes others’ opinions and concerns with open arms.

If he’s not in his district, moving around to see if everything’s okay and where there’s room for improvement, Rep. Amatong never misses out on sessions in the House of Representatives. While there, he takes the opportunity to learn new things to bring back and share with his constituents.

The district representative is also the principal author of bills like defining the rights of women deprived of liberty in jails and correctional facilities, developing the rubber industry by establishing the Philippine Rubber Industry Development Board, and designating a consular office of the Department of Foreign Affairs in Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte.

HON.

“I was motivated to enter politics because I’ve seen the changes that it could bring. The ability to help and serve widely and in a more gripping way is fulfilling for me as an individual and a politician. Changing one’s community for the better is what we all hope to achieve. Because of this, I hope to champion and make systematic advancements in governance, local policies, education, health and of course, agriculture.”

Rep. Cagas, also known as Manong John, dedicated himself to providing his constituents with inclusive and unconditional service as a district representative. He also believes it’s his moral obligation and responsibility to give and help those who have less. Despite the pressure of giving his constituents a voice in the House of Representatives, he doesn’t forget to show the public the lighter side of life, inspiring them to embrace prospects as they come their way. He utilizes the benefits of technology in engaging his public to collaborate with them and establish a relatable connection. In the meantime, Rep. Cagas also offers financial assistance to empower his constituents and ensure

their safety, all while highlighting the rich culture of Davao del Sur.

On the other hand, Rep. Cagas also principally authored bills that improve the quality of life in Davao del Sur, such as establishing community forests in various provinces in Davao del Sur, establishing a Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Training and Assessment Center in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, and designating multipurpose breeding farms and hatcheries to produce crabs, shrimps, and lobsters in the province.

HON. SITTIE AMINAH Q. DIMAPORO (Lanao del Norte, Second District)

“My motivation to run for politics came from my father, Former Representative Abdullah Dimaporo. Throughout his years in public service, I intend to continue his legacy of bridging culture and religion by promoting long-lasting unity in the Province of Lanao del Norte. By embracing diversity and nurturing mutual understanding, I aim to build a strong connection that will pave the way to a promising and harmonious future for the Province.”

As a district representative, Rep. Dimaporo showed that she’s a livewire in accomplishing her duties while pursuing her passions as an individual. She sets an example for women and others that anything is possible if they put their hearts and minds into it. Nonetheless, she maintains a constant presence in the House of Representatives and her district to show that her constituents can depend on her anytime.

The district representative is keen on pioneering new experiences and being a catalyst for change in Lanao del Norte’s Second District. She embraces the possibilities of alternative energy sources to create a green city within her jurisdiction while encouraging her constituents to participate in opportunities that raise awareness about environment-friendly prospects.

In the meantime, she also makes significant waves in the 19th Congress through principally-authored bills, including establishing a Coastal Aquaculture Center to support and rehabilitate the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources

Northern Mindanao Brackishwater Aquaculture Fish Farm in Lala, Lanao del Norte, founding a National Library of Unity and Peace in Tubod, Lanao del Norte, establishing three (3) arboretums, and installing the Philippine High School for the Arts in Lanao del Norte

HON. ANTONIETA R. EUDELA (Zamboanga Sibugay, Second District)

Rep. Eudela’s idea of being a district representative is to have the same perspective as her constituents. She doesn’t regard herself as above everyone else. Instead, she knows her position prompts her to be a people’s champion and join in the bid to create the Philippines with globally-competitive industries and equally capable individuals. She also encourages her constituents to consider her an “Ate,” or elder sister, to whom they can turn to in good or bad times.

Her constituents know Rep. Eudela for being a supportive public leader. Apart from recognizing individuals who stood out in their respective fields, she also distributes cash assistance to the medical and educational areas to improve their services. In the meantime, she doles out financial aid to indigenous communities in her district to create a holistic brand of service.

She also principally authored several bills in the 19th Congress, such as promoting inclusive and sustainable economic development through the institutionalization of the “One Town, One Product” Philippines program, mandating private higher education institutions to waive the college entrance examination fees to underprivileged graduating high school students and graduates belonging to the top ten percent of their graduating class, and prescribing the guidelines for the establishment and operation of local universities and colleges.

HON. SANCHO FERNANDO “ANDO” F. OAMINAL (Misamis Occidental, Second District)

For Rep. Oaminal, there’s nothing as too much or going beyond the call of service. His passion and dedication as a public leader allow him to display genuine care for the people in his jurisdiction as he guides them toward a progressive future while frequently reminding everyone to be kind. His constituents often see him in his district to determine what else must be done or oversee the completion of various set programs.

Rep. Oaminal spearheaded various infrastructure projects throughout many barangays in his district to provide comfort and accessibility to the public. He’s also quick to respond to times of crisis, often offering financial assistance and safety to affected families. Another example of his efforts includes going around barangays to see how they can connect the roads.

JOHN TRACY F. CAGAS (Davao del Sur, Lone District)

The torchbearers of Region XII, BARMM, and Caraga in the 19th Congress

By Patricia taculao

WHEN people think of Region XII, BARMM, and Caraga, some of the things that come to their minds are the longest river in the Philippines, a robust fisheries economy, and a thriving wood-based industry, respectively. These elements, partnered with a strong sense of community among the people, make the three regions stand out just as proudly as others in the Philippines.

Some of the achievements of the three regions became possible thanks to the efforts of the district representatives who lobbied for a change in their jurisdictions to benefit all. The House of Representatives has similar individuals under its roof who serve as efficient leaders to their public and create more globally competitive and capable Filipinos.

HON. LORETO B. ACHARON

(General Santos City, Lone District)

“I entered politics with the firm belief that ‘ang serbisyo publiko ay sagrado.’ For this reason, I am and will continue to be a champion of data-driven policies that benefit not only my constituents but the marginalized and underserved communities in our country.”

Congressman “Ton”, as he is fondly known by many, is the first to be elected as a Member of the House of Representatives to represent the newly minted Lone Legislative District of the City of General Santos.

He is an Assistant Majority Leader for the Committee on Rules, Vice Chairperson of the Committees on Constitutional Amendments, Justice, Government Reorganization, Local Government, Civil Service & Professional Regulations, Science & Technology and Persons with Disabilities.

For the majority, he is a member of the Committees on Aquaculture & Fisheries Resources, Foreign Affairs, Information & Communication Technology, Mindanao Affairs, Public Order & Safety, Rural Development, Social Services, Transportation; and the Special Committees on Land Use, Nuclear Energy, West Philippine Sea, East Asean Growth Area and the Ad Hoc Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation and Victims Compensation.

As a seasoned litigator, he devoted serious attention to pro bono work for many, anchored firmly on the principle that “those who have less in life should have more in law”

This same principle influenced the nature of laws Rep. Acharon proposed at the start of his term, aimed to improve the socioeconomic status of workers in the public sector, labor and employee conditions, flexible financing for MSMEs, development of more eco-tourism sites, rationalization of government regulations on local fishing and aquaculture industries, strengthening of the local livestock sector, local applicability of innovations on technology and alternative energy sources, and efficient public transportation and homes for the homeless.

For his constituents, the construction, repairs and maintenance of all primary and secondary roads, farm to market roads, bridges, drainage systems, flood mitigation and other public works such as health centers and multipurpose buildings have been prioritized by national government agencies yearly through Cong. Ton’ initiative and unceasing request for funding assistance.

For Rep. Acharon, every concern is equally important as he resonates in his own words that - “Ang serbisyo publiko ay sagrado.”

And for many who believe in the sincerity of those words they equally believe that - “Basta si Ton, Sigurado, Seryoso, Sinsero sa Trabaho.”

HON. ZIAUR-RAHMAN “ZIA” ALONTO ADIONG (Lanao del Sur, First)

“Growing up in a family of public servants inspired me to pursue a path of serving the country. My mission is to promote peace, justice, and prosperity in Lanao del Sur, with a focus on rebuilding Marawi City, protecting the rights of internally displaced persons, and ensuring transitional justice for all.”

Among all the things that people should know about Rep. Adiong is that he doesn’t consider being a district representative as a way to lead others solely. For him, being a public leader also means being a public servant, and all his efforts mean working for the people, as he’s a man of the people. Rep. Adiong is a champion of the people because of his dedication to empowering them with various opportunities and recognizing their abilities.

Constituents of Lanao del Sur’ First District can feel Rep. Adiong’s presence throughout the district. Aside from supporting the youth in their initiatives, the district representative also values his jurisdiction’t religious heritage and justice. And whether it’s in the entertainment industry or reality, he debunks stereotypes against the Muslim community.

Meanwhile, the district representative maintains an active presence in the House of Representatives. He’s the principal author of numerous bills, such as establishing Muslim cemeteries in cities and municipalities with a significant Muslim population, protecting the rights of internally displaced persons, and creating Philippine e-libraries facilities in every congressional, city, and municipal public library and barangay reading centers.

HON. MUNIR N. ARBISON JR. (Sulu, Second District)

“In the footsteps of my father’s noble legacy, I embraced the torch he passed down to me. My father already brought tremendous development in our District and I want to carry forward his visions. Fueled by my own unwavering commitment to public service, I want to protect the best interests and advance the quality of life of my constituents through better education and improved healthcare services as I envision a community able to make sound and healthy decisions as we work towards continuous progress in the 2nd District of Sulu.”

Seeing the efficient work his father brought to Sulu’s Second District, the younger Rep. Arbison hopes to continue his brand of service and possibly go beyond the call of duty. He draws inspiration from his father’s legacy but doesn’t shy away from blazing his path as a public servant. He also remains a steadfast figure in the House of Representatives to give his constituents a significant voice in Congress.

People know that Sulu is a province abundant in heritage and environmental resources that offer new prospects. Rep. Arbison does everything he can to highlight Sulu’s beauty to boost its tourism and local economy and bring livelihood opportunities to its locals and more. He also doles out financial assistance to people in need.

The district representative is also responsible for principally authoring bills like mandating all barangays to create a registry of skilled workers, establishing greater responsibility and accountability from private employment agencies, and expanding the prohibited acts of discrimination against women on account of sex, among others.

HON. DALE B. CORVERA (Agusan del Norte, Second District)

With almost 30 years of vast public service experience, Rep. Corvera never failed to impress his constituents and colleagues with hard work, sound and strategic solutions, fairness, and excellent rapport. Besides his efforts in the House of Representatives, Rep. Corvera also spends significant time in his district to determine how to serve the public better. He was elected to all local elective positions except in the position of Vice Mayor. In his first term as Mayor of Cabadbaran, the LGU was converted into a city.

Rep. Corvera is a staunch youth advocate and a firm believer of the vital role of Scouting in the holistic development of the youth. At present, he wears four hats in Scouting: National President, Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP); Council Chairman, BSP Agusan Council; Chairman of the Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Committee, World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM); Ex-Officio Member, World Scout Committee—WOSM.

For the 19th Congress, he was the principal author of bills like mandating the inclusion of the scouting program in the elementary and junior high school curriculum under the K-12 program in all public and private schools in the Philippines, protecting senior citizens from violence and abuse, and strengthening local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) offices by standardizing the salary grade levels of DRRM officers and staff.

HON. ISIDRO D. LUMAYAG (South Cotabato, First District)

South Cotabato’s First District knows Rep. Lumayag well because of his previous efforts as mayor. Because of his efficiency in the office, Rep. Lumayag gained the public’s trust and confidence, placing him in the House of Representatives. Like before, he remains steadfast in listening to his public’s concerns and addressing them accordingly. Today, his jurisdiction remains productive and abuzz because he’s always ready to bring quality service where needed.

Rep. Lumayag doesn’t choose what aspect of his district requires the most attention. Instead, he presents solutions to cover every base and bring the best results for his people. He promotes security and accessibility throughout his jurisdiction through infrastructure projects like access roads, satellite markets, and flood control systems.

He’s also the principal author of bills like allowing college students with unpaid tuition and other school fees to take the perioding and final examinations on good cause and justifiable grounds, providing mandatory insurance coverage and benefits for all line workers, and prescribing the guidelines for the establishment and operation of local universities and colleges.

HON. BAI DIMPLE I. MASTURA (Maguindanao del Norte, Lone District)

“I have always been motivated by the need to provide a better tomorrow for my people. That is my driving force–I want to improve the quality of life for the people of the Lone District of Maguindanao and Cotabato City by passing legislation that promote the welfare of women, children, and the elderly. These include programs for the poor, promotion of education and livelihood, as well as the protection of fellow Muslims.”

As a hardworking lady legislator for her district, Rep. Mastura is careful and consistent in bringing compassionate, quality service. She’s an image of grace and tenacity because she extends her warm and welcoming personality to her constituents while maintaining an air of sincerity in accomplishing her duties and responsibilities as a district representative.

Rep. Mastura is a public leader who delights in serving members of every community under her jurisdiction. Rep. Mastura is the brains behind the LIMO program, which stands for Livelihood, Intervention on Women, Medical Assistance, and Oplan Tulong to her constituents. In the meantime, she also offers financial assistance and goods donations to indigenous communities in the province. She even conducts and supervises infrastructure programs to benefit the public.

In the House of Representatives, she is the principal author of bills such as reapportioning the province of Maguindanao into three legislative districts, assigning social security benefits for barangay officials and volunteer workers, and establishing senior citizens’ one-stop-shop and livelihood center in every municipality.

HON.

“My motivation to pursue a career in politics stems from a deep-rooted desire to make a difference in the lives of people. My experiences as a doctor and a public servant ignited a passion in me to bring about positive changes and improve the lives of those around me. I wish to champion policies that prioritize access to quality education, healthcare, and job opportunities for my constituents. I believe that by investing in these areas, we can create a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Additionally, I am committed to promoting social justice and equality for marginalized communities and advocating for policies that protect the environment and combat climate change.”

Within recent years, people recognized the relevance of medical advice and prioritized their health first. They began listening to experts in the field who have since guided them toward a secure future. Rep. Miguel, who is also a doctor, besides a district representative, shows that his knowledge and passion for public service will be the remedy that brings change to his district. After all, his constituents’ health is his utmost priority.

He doles out medical services throughout his district, offering services that cater to the young and elderly. In the meantime, he would also support efforts within his communities that empower the youth to embrace their abilities. Through his online platform, Rep. Miguel even shares health tips for specific and general reasons.

On the other hand, he made efforts in the 19th Congress by principally authoring bills, including mandating business, commercial, and public establishments to provide complimentary adequate parking areas for their clientele, requiring the Department of Social Welfare and Development to give free hearing aids to deaf or hearing-impaired indigenous individuals, and establishing the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines.

HON. DIMSZAR M. SALI (Tawi-Tawi, Lone District)

“My forefathers, including my father, fought for the independence of Tawi-Tawi, which was constituted as a separate province in 1973. I am inclined to continue their legacy of good leadership and service. I hope to serve my constituents and champion their aspirations for genuine economic, social, and cultural development. I am advocating for fair budgetary allocations in regions and provinces so that there will be economic development opportunities for all. There is high poverty incidence in the BARMM region and we hope to address this with effective policies and programs, including tourism development, agricultural modernization, and recognition of Tawi-Tawi as the Seaweed Capital of the Philippines.”

Rep. Sali’s approach as a district representative is making necessary actions based on the demands that constituents would ask. It brings results to his efforts because it allows him to identify concerns from a firsthand perspective.

This gives him the strength and experience to jump through hurdles that would come his way. While he is in Manila attending his duties in the House of Representatives, he

PETER B. MIGUEL (South Cotabato, Second District)

He also principally authored bills in the 19th Congress, like providing zero-interest salary loans to all government employees in government financial institutions, establishing the Philippine Children’s Medical Centers in Visayas and Mindanao, and reorganizing the Philippine National Police HON. KHYMER ADAN T. OLASO (Zamboanga City, First District)

Rep. Olaso has a strict perspective on his duties as a district representative. With all the issues that Filipinos face daily, he insists that band-aid solutions are never the answer and refrains from engaging in such. After all, addressing the root of the problem will bring significant change and results. Rep. Olaso is also a man of action who prefers to get a firsthand experience of the situation to determine its gravity instead of handing off the task to others.

Due to his energetic personality, constituents often see Rep. Olaso taking on tasks that push for the safety and benefit of the public. He advocates environmental preservation, encouraging the public to plant trees and refrain from unethically disposing of their garbage in bodies of water or public spaces.

The district representative is also known for keeping busy in the House of Representatives by pushing various laws. Some examples of his principally authored bills include instituting policies for the protection and welfare of caregivers in practicing their profession, mandating all barangays to create a registry of skilled workers, and increasing the social pension of indigent senior citizens.

HON.

WILTER Y. PALMA (Zamboanga Sibugay, First District)

“As a son of Zamboanga Sibugay, I have pursued a career in politics due to my passion for public service and aspiration to create meaningful change for the people. Throughout my tenure as Mayor, Governor, and now a neophyte Congressman, it has been my life’s work to ensure the betterment of not just the lives of the Sibugaynons but also the lives of every Filipino. As a neophyte congressman, I am aiming to champion policies on sustainable development, affordable healthcare, accessible quality education, and equality, not just for the Sibugaynons but for the entire Filipino people.”

Hard work and pure intentions bear fruits a thousandfold, as proven by Rep. Palma in his jurisdiction. His constituents see his efforts and authenticity through the projects and programs he implemented in the region and appreciate him for taking on his roles and responsibilities seriously. Rep. Palma leads his people with dedication as he shows what the future has to offer if they embrace progress and modernity.

Rep. Palma exhibits continuous support to various communities in his district. For instance, he offers assistance to fisherfolks in his jurisdiction through the distribution of fiberglass boats. The district representative also works with other government agencies to find better solutions for his constituents’ needs. And to ensure that his public

The torchbearers... From D12

makes sure that he is accessible to his constituents. When in TawiTawi, Sali maximizes time to engage with constituents, listening and addressing every concern of his constituents.

The district representative provides financial assistance for his constituents’ needs such as education, medical and food. He also recognizes the achievements of various community members like workers, athletes, youth leaders, and more. One of Rep. Sali’s initiatives is raising awareness about his region’s beliefs and traditions.

For the 19th Congress, Rep. Sali authored the conversion of Tawi-Tawi Regional College of Agriculture into a state college, which will be renamed as Tawi-Tawi State College. He also coauthored various bills like declaring the first day of February of every year as National Hijab Day, strengthening the mental health services of state universities and colleges, and further strengthening professionalism and modernization initiatives in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

HON. MA. ALANA SAMANTHA T. SANTOS (Cotabato, Third District)

One way that Rep. Santos describes her actions as a district representative is “Serbisyo at Malasakit” (Service and Compassion).

As among the top-performing legislators, Rep. Santos exudes a warm and welcoming air to her constituents, creating relevant connections without taking her eyes off her goals as a public leader. She also sets an example for women and the youth to become the leaders of tomorrow.

As a youth advocate, Santos creates opportunities like establishing a youth organization to encourage the younger generations to unlock their potential in nation-building. She also spearheads infrastructure programs for medical services and more to promote comfort and accessibility to her constituents. Nonetheless, Rep. Santos still finds time to spend time with the public.

gets enough attention and representation, he conducts Municipal visits. For the 19th Congress, he’s responsible for bills such as providing additional health benefits to barangay health and nutrition workers, ensuring food security through mandatory crop insurance coverage to farmers, and creating the health emergency auxiliary reinforcement team under the Department of Health.

HON. CELSO G. REGENCIA (Iligan City, Lone District)

Before Rep. Regencia took on the role and responsibility as a district representative, he was a threeconsecutive term Mayor in Iligan City. Due to his efficiency in the office, the people have since trusted him to be their leader. His approach to being a public leader is showing his constituents utmost care through his brand of service and responding to their needs whenever they call upon him.

Rep. Regencia doles out financial assistance and helps their families lead better lives. In the meantime, he creates opportunities to provide livelihoods to men, women, and displaced workers and raises awareness about preserving the natural environment. The district representative also eyes other prospects of infrastructure projects that could improve the region’s security.

Meanwhile, he also lobbies for bills that he principally authored, including providing for the enabling environment to foster the growth of public-private partnerships for infrastructure and other development projects, establishing the Artificial Intelligence Industrial Research Park (AIIRP) in the Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology, and installing a district hospital in Iligan City as the Iligan City District Hospital.

HON. LAARNI LAVIN ROQUE (Bukidnon, Fourth District)

When people think of their homes, they think of a place that brings them solace and an area where they can grow immensely. For Rep. Roque, she treats her role as a district representative by using the perspective of Bukidnon as her home, which proves to be efficient. It allows her to see things about the district as any other resident would, thus showing her where to focus her energies.

She advocates culture and the arts, highlighting Bukidnon’s vibrant heritage in festivals and other celebrations. Rep. Roque also knows the region’s tourism potential, inspiring her to support initiatives that feature her district as a mustvisit location. Her constituents also witness her productivity in the House of Representatives and her jurisdiction, further solidifying their trust in her.

In the 19th Congress, Rep. Roque champions bills that support children with special needs, such as granting tax deductions to their parents and legal guardians, establishing a comprehensive training program for teachers, and creating a National Special Needs Screening Program under the Department of Health’s direct supervision.

In the meantime, Rep. Santos is the principal author of bills like strengthening national efforts on disability concerns, as provided by the Magna Carta of Persons with Disability (PWD), establishing the National Commission on Disability (NCD), promoting the conservation, protection, and sustainable use of peatlands and its resources to enhance climate resiliency, and granting full insurance coverage to all qualified agrarian reform beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform program.

HON. STEVE CHIONGBIAN SOLON (Sarangani, Lone District)

“In 2007, my family requested me to heed the call of public service, and from day one, I made sure that my approach to stewardship was multi-pronged and aimed at addressing the diverse provincial matters with God at the center of every decision.”

Congressman Steve Chiongbian Solon’s vision for Sarangani to be a God-Centered and prosperous province has been a driving force from the time of his foray into public service in 2007. Since then, Rep. Solon has gained his constituents’ confidence and trust, subsequently giving him the honor to serve for two terms as Vice Governor and three terms as Governor respectively.

As a district representative, Rep. Solon has championed the development and growth of the province by zeroing in on key legislations. These include the engagement of the public and private sector by instituting reforms in real property valuation; ensuring the disaster relief and response in calamity-stricken areas; supporting the prioritization of teachers and educational systems; providing for the automatic income classification of LGUs, the magna carta for Barangay Health Workers and consumer-merchant protection in E-commerce among others.

Aside from the infrastructural and commercial aspects of

HON. LORDAN G. SUAN (Cagayan de Oro City, First District)

“I was motivated to pursue a career in politics to uplift and transform the lives of my fellow Cagay-anons. My vision is to provide opportunities for economic growth, development, social justice, and well-being, ensuring a healthier, safer and brighter future for my people and the country in general.”

With Rep. Suan at the helm of Cagayan de Oro City’s First District, people are confident and sure that he won’t leave them hanging whenever they need him to rise to the occasion or implement his brand of service. He sets an example of how public servants can efficiently meet the people’s demands. Among his many goals is creating a united and harmonious community he could lead toward a progressive future where no one gets left behind.

The district representative doesn’t miss opportunities to show his support for his constituents. Whether it’s financial aid or infrastructure projects, Rep. Suan remains on top of things to ensure that Cagayenos get nothing but the best from his office. He also holds frequent meetings with other representatives of government agencies to see where he can expand his vision for his district.

Meanwhile, he’s the principal author of bills in the 19th Congress, such as prohibiting and penalizing unauthorized practice of law, imposing a value-added tax on digital transactions in the Philippines, and establishing a legal scholarship and return service program for deserving students.

HON. JEYZEL VICTORIA C. YU (Zamboanga del Sur, Second District)

“I came from a household where social issues, agricultural programs, scholarships, and the like, were discussed in the dining table. I never really thought of becoming a public servant until the pandemic hit us— saw how our lives changed and how it affected our fellow Filipino citizens. Then I realized the importance of good governance.

Now, I focus my efforts to raise the technology in agriculture for our farmers, give more opportunities in education to our youth, and improve our infrastructure for our economy.”

Being a district representative is often demanding, but Rep. Yu never lets it show on her face, especially when interacting with her constituents. Their smiles and the knowledge of being capable of providing them with quality living conditions and more keeps her inspired to take on the mantle as their voice in the House of Representatives. Rep. Yu also has an eye for detail and focuses on every aspect of her district as best she can.

She shows her support to various communities in her district, including military personnel, the youth, and more. Rep. Yu knows the relevance of working together with everyone to ensure that nobody gets left behind. The lady lawmaker also keeps a close eye on her projects so they will be accomplished on time without sacrificing their quality.

Meanwhile, her contributions to the 19th Congress include principally authored bills like strengthening the National Measurement Infrastructure System (NMIS), promoting integrated urban agriculture in urban areas nationwide to address food security, and mandating the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology to exercise supervision and control over provincial jails.

the province, Rep. Solon has also advocated for the natural, cultural, and social heritage of the province. This is evident through his efforts in safeguarding Indigenous Peoples’ rights and protection; conserving ancient, natural biomes such as Mt. Busa; and emphasizing education by institutionalizing a state college.

HON. MOHAMAD P. PAGLAS (Maguindanao del Sur, Lone District)

“My thirst to serve my constituents is the reason why I am here right now. Being exposed to political and armed conflicts in the countryside, I know that the only way to achieve legitimate peace and development is through education, jobs, and better quality of life. This is what I want to bring to my constituents.”

Fondly known as “Tong” in his district, Rep. Paglas leads his community by example. As a simple man, he keeps himself productive by going around his jurisdiction to see where he can lend a helping hand through efficiency and action. He earned his constituents’ trust and support as he pursued his aspirations for the district, because their welfare was in his best interests, as always.

Besides promoting and respecting his community’s religious beliefs, Rep. Paglas provides financial assistance to needy individuals, which they can use for medical purposes, among other aspects. He’s also present during many peace talks to promote his district’s safety and security. The lawmaker is frequently seen throughout his community to connect with the people and address any issues.

He’s among the principal authors of bills in the House of Representatives, like establishing an agriculture information system in all cities and municipalities, rationalizing the disability pension of veterans, and designating evacuation centers in every city and municipality.

Neophyte Party-list Representatives leave indelible impact, champion advocacies in Congress

By Peter Paul Duran

HON. JONATHAN CLEMENT “JC” ABALOS II

4PS: ENHANCING SOCIAL WELFARE PROGRAMS

targeting critical infrastructure, which negatively impact trade, government services, and the people, particularly the underprivileged who heavily rely on these services.

AS

THE 19th Congress of the Philippines shifts into high gear, a dynamic group of neophyte party-list representatives has stepped up to the plate to champion their respective advocacies.

These emerging leaders, hailing from diverse sectors and communities, are fueled by a shared determination to drive positive change and tackle the pressing issues their constituents face.

Amidst the intricacies of parliamentary proceedings, these neophyte party-list representatives bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the forefront. Their presence injects a renewed sense of energy and dynamism into the halls of Congress, sparking discussions on critical issues that demand attention. From social justice and environmental sustainability to labor rights and poverty alleviation, these representatives are keen on addressing the multifaceted challenges that confront our nation.

As we share snippets of their meaningful advocacies, we also asked them two important questions for readers to have a deeper appreciation for these new yet invigorated legislators.

What are the key issues that your partylist organization aims to address?

What measures so far have you proposed to address their unique needs and challenges?

HON. BONIFACIO L. BOSITA and HON. RAMON RODRIGO L. GUTIERREZ

1-RIDER: ENSURING RIGHTS AND SAFETY FOR MOTORCYCLE RIDERS

Rep. Bosita and Rep. Gutierrez represent Ang Buklod ng mga Motorista ng Pilipinas or 1-Rider Party List, championing the welfare and causes of riders nationwide, recognizing their vital role in delivering goods, facilitating trade, and ensuring mobility and safety. Their objectives include raising the standard of the transport system, improving its management, delivering sustainable services to the rider community, establishing a 24/7 Motorists Assistance Center, and advocating for legislation that addresses the pressing concerns and promotes the interests of riders. By prioritizing the holistic development and utmost service of the transport sector, the party list aims to elevate its economic competitiveness and enhance the well-being of riders and their families.

Reps. Bosita and Gutierrez of the 1-Rider Party-list are committed to advancing the welfare of riders and their families. Anchored in their RIDE principle, they strive to raise the standard and improve the entire transport system (land, sea, and air) while delivering sustainable services to the rider community. Through their Motorists Assistance Center, they engage with riders 24/7, addressing their concerns and needs. Furthermore, as a legislators, they actively propose bills and measures that promote the interests and welfare of riders, ensuring a thriving environment for all. Together, Reps. Bosita and Gutierrez embody the dedication and commitment of the 1-Rider Party-list in championing the rights and well-being of riders.

As a neophyte in the House of Representatives, the 1-Rider Party-list has been proactive in introducing bills and proposing legislation in the 19th Congress.

Notably, House Bill 3366, titled “An Act Enforcing Fair Traffic Apprehension, Granting for the Purpose Compensation to Drivers of Motor Vehicles for Improper Traffic Apprehensions And Imposing Administrative Sanctions for Erring Traffic Enforcement Personnel,” aims to bring fairness to traffic apprehensions. Similarly, House Bill 5115, titled “An Act Integrating Road Discharge and Safety Education in The Senior High School Curriculum and Appropriating Funds Thereof,” focuses on educating both riders and passengers on road disciplines.

Additionally, House Bill 4545, titled “An Act Protecting the Rights of Consumers in the Purchase of Motorcycles, including its parts and accessories, and helmet,” seeks to safeguard consumers’ rights in motorcycle purchases. These bills are currently undergoing committee hearings for further advocacy and lobbying.

In addition to legislative efforts, the party-list has launched the Motorists Assistance Center, providing round-the-clock support for riders to voice their concerns. Collaborating with institutions like DSWD, DOH, TESDA, as well as building strong relationships with MMDA and LTO, the 1-Rider Party-list is actively working to advance the interests of riders. Through ongoing breakthrough programs, they strive to effectively represent the diverse community of riders across the country.

Rep. Abalos, of the Pagtibayin at Palaguin ang Pangkabuhayang Pilipino (4Ps) Party-list, is dedicated to empowering marginalized sectors and addressing poverty in the Philippines. Their party-list organization aims to help individuals break the cycle of poverty and achieve sustainable socio-economic progress. Rep. Abalos has proposed measures that focus on removing barriers and creating an enabling environment for marginalized individuals to thrive. Through comprehensive support systems and targeted initiatives, the 4Ps Party-list strives to uplift disadvantaged populations, improve their living conditions, and offer tangible solutions for poverty reduction.

The 4Ps Party-list aims to help individuals break the cycle of poverty and achieve sustainable socio-economic progress by proposing measures that remove barriers and create an enabling environment for marginalized individuals to thrive.

Rep. Abalos proposes measures to empower marginalized individuals, remove barriers, and create an enabling environment for socio-economic progress. These measures include addressing women’s issues, tackling discrimination faced by individuals with criminal records, advocating for an Election Day holiday, and increasing conditional cash grants to mitigate the impact of inflation and the pandemic on vulnerable populations.

HON. LEX ANTHONY CRIS A. COLADA AAMBIS-OWA: EMPOWERING VISAYAN FARMERS

Atty. Colada, the First Nominee and Representative of Aambis-Owa Party-List, is a dedicated advocate for Filipino farmers. With a strong track record in the House of Representatives, he has served as the Deputy Minority Leader and sponsored important measures for economic recovery. Atty. Colada, with his diverse background and educational achievements, including a Bachelor of Laws degree, brings valuable experience to his role. He has also made significant contributions as the former President of Iloilo 1 Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ILECO 1). Additionally, Atty. Colada is an accomplished farmer and game fowl breeder, with numerous awards and national championships to his name.

Aambis-Owa focuses on important issues such as food security, the development of Philippine agriculture, affordable and sustainable energy, efficient transportation, quality education, accessible healthcare, environmental preservation, poverty eradication, justice, and fairness.

Since assuming his role as a legislator, Rep. Colada has taken proactive steps to address these needs and challenges. He has filed bills for the development of specific agricultural industries, advocated for tax reform, restructuring of the mining industry, amendments to the EPIRA law, establishment of a nuclear power plant, privatization of PAGCOR, and introduced bills focused on vital agricultural products. Additionally, he actively participates in the national budget allocation for important government programs.

HON. EDVIC G. YAP

COMBATING CRIME AND TERRORISM

ACT-CIS:

Rep. Yap, the representative of Anti-Crime and Terrorism Community Involvement and Support (ACT-CIS), brings a strong commitment to combat crime and terrorism. With a focus on enhancing law enforcement efforts and ensuring the safety and security of communities, Rep. Yap aims to champion initiatives that promote peace and protect the rights of citizens.

The ACT-CIS Partylist actively represents the face of the common Filipino, spanning across multiple sectors, particularly focusing on the oppressed and underprivileged. Branded as “Kakampi ng mga Inaapi” or “Defenders of the Oppressed,” they continuously advance the interests of marginalized, vulnerable, and underrepresented individuals.

They have authored 139 bills and co-authored 9 bills, addressing a wide range of pressing issues. Notable legislations include the Magna Carta for Barangay Healthcare workers, Security Guards, and Social Workers, as well as the Protection of Caregivers, Media Workers, and Freelance Workers. They have also worked towards increasing grants and benefits for Teachers, Centenarians, Persons with Disabilities, Filipino Athletes, Farmers, and Overseas Filipino Workers.

In pursuit of inclusivity, they also champion the Community-Driven Development Bill, empowering communities through participatory planning and decisionmaking based on their unique conditions. This legislation promotes bottom-up leadership and responsive governance, prioritizing the needs of the basic sectors and fostering consensus-building.

HON. BRYAN B. REVILLA AGIMAT: CHAMPIONING MARGINALIZED SECTORS

Rep. Revilla, representing Agimat Party-List, focuses on addressing key issues such as cybersecurity and information security. He recognizes the increasing cyber threats

To address these unique needs and challenges, he has proposed House Bill No. 8199, known as the Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Act. This bill aims to mandate covered firms, both public and private, to implement minimum information security standards for their ICT systems and enhance the country’s capacity to respond to cyberattacks. Rep. Revilla urges the swift passage of the CIIPA Bill to safeguard critical information infrastructure

HON. WILBERT T. LEE

AGRI: PROMOTING FARMERS’ WELFARE AND AGRICULTURAL REFORMS

Rep. Lee, the Representative of AGRI Party-list (AGRIAGRA Na Reporma Para Sa Magsasaka ng Pilipinas), is a staunch advocate for the agriculture and fisheries sector, fighting for the rights and well-being of marginalized individuals. He prioritizes the advancement of Filipino workers’ welfare, ensuring their access to economic opportunities, food, education, and healthcare. With a remarkable portfolio, he has authored and co-authored 100 bills and actively serves on 24 Congressional Committees. Beyond his public role, Rep. Lee actively promotes food security, youth education, and livelihood opportunities for communities.

AGRI fights for the rights and welfare of farmers, fishermen, and food producers nationwide and aims to address pressing issues in various sectors, including healthcare, education, transportation, and housing. Their goal is to provide all Filipinos, particularly the marginalized, with access to quality government services, empowering them to improve their lives.

They have proposed several key measures to address the needs and challenges of the agriculture sector and marginalized communities. These include the Essential Crop Insurance Act, Agripreneurs Scholarship Program Act, Agriculture Pension Act, Rental Housing Subsidy Act, National Fertilizer Subsidy Act, Kadiwa Agri-Food Terminal Act, Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act, and more.

HON. RAUL ANGELO “JILL” D. BONGALON AKO BICOL: PROGRESS AND LIVELIHOOD OPPORTUNITIES FOR BICOLANOS

Rep. Bongalon represents the hopes and aspirations of Bicolanos as the second nominee of Ako Bicol Partylist, alongside party founder and chairman Rep. Elizaldy S. Co. With a background in youth leadership and a Juris Doctor Degree, he is dedicated to championing the rights and welfare of the Filipino people. As a neophyte in Congress, he holds important positions such as Assistant Majority Leader and Vice Chairperson of key committees.

Rep. Bongalon has authored numerous bills and resolutions focused on poverty alleviation, equal opportunities in education, quality healthcare, and sustainable livelihood. Some notable initiatives include the Media Workers Welfare Act, Universal Social Pension for Senior Citizens, and Amendments to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education. Rep. Bongalon is a champion for every Bicolano in Congress, striving to make a positive impact on their behalf.

HON. RICHELLE SINGSON AKO ILOCANO AKO: CHAMPIONING ILOCANO VIRTUES

Rep. Singson represents Ako Ilocano Ako, a party-list focused on championing the interests of the Ilocano people. Singson aims to advocate for initiatives that promote economic development, cultural preservation, and social progress in the Ilocos region. By highlighting the rich heritage and potential of the Ilocano community, Singson strives to create opportunities and improve the lives of the Ilocano people.

HON. RAY T. REYES

ANAKALUSUGAN:

ENHANCING HEALTHCARE FOR ALL FILIPINOS

Rep. Reyes, representing Alagaan Natin Ating Kalusugan (Anakalusugan), is committed to improving healthcare services and access for all Filipinos. His focus includes addressing health disparities, promoting public health initiatives, and enhancing healthcare infrastructure. He advocates for policies that prioritize the well-being and health of the Filipino people. Anakalusugan Party-list aims to address the gaps in Philippine healthcare, including the shortage of healthcare workers, the slow implementation of the Universal Health Care Act, and the need to amend the EPIRA Law for a rationalized national grid policy in terms of national security. Rep. Reyes has filed House Bill 6631, which proposes the Nursing Scholarship and Return Service program to provide scholarships to deserving students. They are actively coordinating with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to extend assistance in expediting the implementation of the Universal Health Care Act.

Neophyte Party-list... From D15

Moreover, the Committee on Energy is leading the move to amend the EPIRA, aiming to include provisions that rationalize the national grid framework in accordance with the Philippine Grid Code.

HON. REYNALDO S. TAMAYO ANGAT: ADVANCING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY

Representing Agrikultura Ngayon Gawing Akma at Tama (ANGAT), Rep. Tamayo is committed to advancing the interests of the agricultural sector. His focus includes promoting sustainable farming practices, providing support for rural communities, and ensuring food security. Through policy advocacy and strategic initiatives, he aims to strengthen the agricultural industry.

HON. MICHAEL M. MORDEN API: EMPOWERING PANGASINAN AND ILOCANO COMMUNITIES

Rep. Morden of API (Abante Pangasinan Ilokano) Party-list was motivated to pursue a career in politics by his desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who are less privileged. As a newcomer to the position, he aims to champion specific policy changes and initiatives that align with his values and vision for his constituents. His advocacies include livelihood, peace, health, justice, education, environment, culture, youth, and women. Rep. Morden has filed bills addressing various issues such as healthcare accessibility, establishment of a national stockpile, benefits for community watchmen, creation of a medical corps, protection of Filipino seafarers, regulation of single-use plastic, and safeguarding the rights of the elderly against abuse and violence. Through his legislative efforts, Rep. Morden seeks to protect and improve the well-being of his constituents, focusing on their best interests and promoting a better future for them.

HON. BRIAN RAYMUND S. YAMSUAN BICOL SARO: EMPOWERING THE BICOL REGION

Rep. Yamsuan, representing Bicol Saro, is dedicated to empowering the Bicol region. Recognizing the region’s potential for growth and development, Yamsuan seeks to advocate for policies that promote economic opportunities, infrastructure development, and improved access to education and healthcare for the people of Bicol.

Having worked under three presidents and collaborated with several lawmakers, the opportunity to witness politics as a force for good and a catalyst for reforms inspired Rep. Yamsuan to pursue a political career. His primary priorities revolve around building a prosperous, resilient, and sustainable Bicol Region, where the residents can lead comfortable, safe, and productive lives.

Rep. Yamsuan aims to address key issues in the region such as invigorating the economy, improving education, and addressing the impact of climate change and an overarching goal to make the lives of Bicolanos comfortable, safe, and productive.

They have proposed measures such as establishing a Philippine Science High School campus in Camarines Sur to develop a skilled workforce for the digital age. They have also authored or co-authored over 170 bills focusing on reenergizing the economy, creating job opportunities, and promoting sustainable development in the face of the climate crisis. These include initiatives like creating special economic zones, establishing more TESDA training centers, and ensuring the region’s resilience to climate change.

HON. FELIMON M. ESPARES

COOP-NATCCO: COOPERATIVE DEVELOPMENT

Rep. Espares, who represents Cooperative NATCCO Party (Coop-NATCCO), advocates for cooperative development. Recognizing the significant role of cooperatives in uplifting communities and supporting livelihoods, Espares aims to push for legislation that strengthens and promotes the growth of cooperatives across the country.

HON. EDWIN L. GARDIOLA

CWS: WELFARE OF CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

Rep. Gardiola represents Construction Workers Solidarity (CWS), a party-list committed to the welfare of construction workers in the Philippines. Rep. Gardiola aims to push for policies that ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to social benefits for construction workers. By advocating for the rights and well-being of the construction labor force, Rep. Gardiola strives to create a more dignified and secure future for these essential workers.

HON. DRIXIE MAE S. CARDEMA

DUTERTE YOUTH: YOUTH ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT

Rep. Cardema represents Duterte Youth Party-List (DUTERTE YOUTH), a party-list focused on youth engagement and empowerment. Cardema aims to champion initiatives that promote youth participation in nationbuilding, educational reforms, and skills development programs. By harnessing the energy and ideas of the youth, Cardema seeks to create a brighter future for the Filipino youth.

HON. RAOUL DANNIEL A. MANUEL KABATAAN PARTYLIST: YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

Rep. Manuel, representing Kabataan Partylist, is a staunch advocate for the empowerment of the youth. With a focus on education, employment, and participation in decision-making processes, Manuel aims to champion policies that address the specific needs and concerns of Filipino youth, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are protected.

HON. MARISSA “DEL MAR” P. MAGSINO

OFW:

ADVOCATING FOR OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS

Rep. Magsino of the OFW Party List has filed a series of bills and resolutions aimed at addressing the needs and rights of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). These measures cover a wide range of issues, including labor conditions, voting rights, financial assistance, healthcare, repatriation processes, and support for OFW families. By advocating for these proposals, Rep. Magsino seeks to provide comprehensive support and recognition for the invaluable contributions of OFWs while addressing the challenges they face in their work abroad.

The party-list has proposed legislations that includes measures such as the Fair Placement Fees for OFWs Act, BPO Workers’ Welfare and Protection Act, Classroom Management Support and Protection for Teachers Act, and Overseas Filipino Workers Exemption from the PhilHealth Contribution Act. They also aim to provide free public housing, ensure the right to adequate food, and recognize the contributions of organizations like the Rotary Club. Additionally, their bills focus on strengthening human rights education, providing legal assistance to migrant workers, and establishing OFW Family Centers for the welfare of OFWs’ families.

HON. MARGARITA IGNACIA B. NOGRALES

EMPOWERING ATHLETES

PBA:

Rep. Nograles is a neophyte representative of the Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Party List in the 19th Congress. With a diverse background in law, business, and academia, she brings valuable expertise to her role as a public servant. Rep. Nograles is committed to fostering positive change and promoting the welfare of her constituents through her active participation in legislative processes. Representing the sports, youth, and arts sector, she actively advocates for their interests on the national platform. As the assistant majority floor leader and a member of multiple committees, she plays a crucial role in shaping legislation that addresses the social, political, and economic needs of the country, carrying on the legacy of her late father, former Speaker Prospero “Boy” Nograles.

Rep. Nograles and the PBA Party-list seek to address a diverse range of key issues. Utilizing her legal expertise through her “Paano Ba Attorney?” segment, she educates people about legal matters. She has advocated for the conversion of Sulu State College into a university, combats agricultural smuggling (House Bill 3197), supports Filipino athletes (House Bill 03597), and grants additional benefits to Olympians and athletes (House Bill 4088). Moreover, she actively promotes human rights (House Bill 0674), health decentralization (House Bill No. 6174), equal protection (House Bill 1365), women’s empowerment, youth development, and mental health awareness, including antibullying initiatives. Through her legislative efforts, Rep. Atty. Migs Nograles aims to make a positive impact on education, agriculture, sports, human rights, health, justice, and the overall well-being of various sectors in the country

HON. IVAN HOWARD A. GUINTU

PINUNO: AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES

Rep. Guintu who represents Pinatatag na Ugnayan para sa mga Oportunidad sa Pabahay ng Masa or PINUNO PartyList aims to address the issue of homelessness and to cater to the needs of informal settlers families by giving them a voice in our legislative process.

In order to promote and advocate for the needs of informal settler families, PINUNO Party-List’s legislative agenda is primarily focused on socialized and affordable housing, livelihood programs for public housing beneficiaries, and the rights of informal settler families especially for the just and humane conduct of eviction or resettlement.

As part of their campaign promise, they have filed the following bills: Free On-Site Living Quarters for Public School Teachers Act; Home for Abandoned Senior Citizens Act; Just and Humane Resettlement Act; National Housing Development, Production and Financing Act; On-Site, InCity, or Near City Resettlement Act; Rent Relief Subsidy Act; Rental Housing Subsidy Program Act; Resilient Housing and Human Settlements Act; Sustainable Cities and Communities Act and the Teacher’s Housing Program Act.

HON. JERNIE JETT V. NISAY

PUSONG PINOY: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Rep. Nisay of Pusong Pinoy Partylist is dedicated to tackling the pressing challenges faced by Filipinos. With a focus on health promotion, quality education, livelihood, infrastructure development, youth empowerment, safety, and agriculture, Pusong Pinoy strives to uplift

marginalized communities and implement sustainable poverty alleviation programs. Rep. Nisay’s journey in public service began as a Barangay Chairperson and later as a City Councilor, where he championed pioneering ordinances for health services and improved the quality of life in Balanga City. Recognized for his dedication, he received prestigious awards such as the Bataan Circle of Heroes - Bayani Award and CSC Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award. Pusong Pinoy Partylist aims to create a society of equal opportunities, where no one is left behind, and inspire a unified stand for the greater good of all Filipinos and the Philippines as a whole.

HON.CAROLINE L. TANCHAY SAGIP: ALLEVIATING POVERTY

Rep. Tanchay represents Social Amelioration & Genuine Intervention on Poverty (SAGIP), a party-list dedicated to alleviating poverty and uplifting the lives of marginalized sectors. Rep. Tanchay aims to champion policies that promote social welfare, inclusive growth, and poverty reduction. By addressing the root causes of poverty and advocating for social justice, Tanchay seeks to create a more equitable and compassionate society.

HON. JUDE A. ACIDRE

TINGOG: VOICE OF THE EASTERN VISAYAS

Rep. Acidre, a dynamic public servant and the 2nd Nominee of Tingog Party-list, currently serves in the 19th Congress of the House of Representatives. He holds the position of Deputy Majority Leader. Acidre has a background as a youth leader, advocate, and political consultant. He has participated in various international conferences and programs, including the Inaugural Conference of Young Political Leaders and the Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program.

TINGOG Party-list aims to provide regional perspectives on national issues. Their key areas of focus include improving family incomes, increasing social services, promoting innovative and proactive governance, and sustaining economic growth. They aim to achieve these goals through initiatives such as creating more industries and jobs, supporting MSMEs and agribusiness, enhancing education and healthcare accessibility, strengthening local government autonomy and disaster resilience, and investing in infrastructure and poverty reduction efforts.

TINGOG Party-list has been proactive in addressing the unique needs and challenges of their constituents. With around 247 bills filed in the 19th Congress, they have already achieved the approval of 68 bills in the third reading, awaiting Senate deliberation. Notably, they played a crucial role in the passage of Republic Act No. 11934, the SIM Registration Act. Their filed bills cover various areas such as regional development, ecological industrial zones, agricultural growth, protection of internally displaced people, and expanded tertiary education equivalency. Additionally, they have actively worked on expanding hospital capacities, including the Eastern Visayas Medical Center. These accomplishments were made possible through collaborative efforts with Rep. Yedda Romualdez and Speaker Martin Romualdez, according to Rep. Acidre.

HON.

SAMUEL S. VERZOSA JR.

TUTOK TO WIN: EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE

Rep. Verzosa, the representative of Tutok To Win, is committed to promoting effective governance. Rep. Verzosa aims to champion measures that enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in government service delivery. By promoting good governance practices, Verzosa strives to build public trust and ensure the responsible use of public resources.

HON. JAMES “JOJO” ANG JR.

USWAG ILONGGO:

ADVANCING ILONGGO WELFARE

Rep. Ang, representing the Uswag Ilonggo Party, is committed to advancing the welfare of the Ilonggo people. He focuses on a comprehensive five-point legislative agenda, which includes promoting the well-being of Ilonggo families, ensuring proper healthcare for the less fortunate, implementing consistent infrastructure and tourism programs, fostering progress in agriculture and aquaculture, and expanding scholarship opportunities for the youth.

Additionally, Rep. Ang actively builds strong relationships with communities and various sectors in the region, ensuring accessibility and responsiveness as a dedicated representative. His unwavering dedication to the vision of Uswag Ilonggo, accompanied by his diligent work and commitment to public service, drives his efforts to bring about progress and prosperity for the Ilonggos.

The neophyte party-list members of the House of Representatives of the 19th Congress bring diverse advocacies and perspectives to the table. Their collective aim is to champion the causes that their respective partylists represent, from community development, housing, and youth empowerment to regional welfare, sports development, and poverty alleviation.

Upholding these principles, they aim to build a stronger foundation for a truly representative democracy—truly poised to make a profound impact on legislation and policymaking within the esteemed House of Representatives for years to come.