Advocacy in Action, Leadership in Motion

SAN NARCISO, ZAMBALES MAYOR LA RAINNE ABAD-SARMIENTO LEADS WITH THE HEART, BLENDING GRASSROOTS ACTIVISM AND GOVERNANCE TO DRIVE MEANINGFUL CHANGE AS THE TOWN’S FIRST FEMALE MAYOR.

San Narciso, Zambales Mayor La Rainne Abad-Sarmiento’s journey from academic work to activism and environmental advocacy has always been driven by a deep love for her community. Whether she’s leading a project or listening to the concerns of her people, she leads with the heart, proving that true leadership is about service, not just experience.

Even her name carries a story of individuality and defying convention. Named after La Rainne Garcia, the daughter of her mother’s colleague, Sarmiento recalls the moment she felt a connection to her namesake. “I was 10 when I read Ms. Garcia’s letter to the editor in the Sunday Times Magazine. She was a medical student then, and seeing her name in print made mine feel even more special,” she shares. “It made me think about identity and how I never quite fit into the conventional mold of school.” That same spirit of challenging norms and carving her own path continues to define her leadership today.

THROUGH THIS JOURNEY, I GAINED A DEEP APPRECIATION FOR THE RICH DIVERSITY OF OUR PEOPLE—THEIR ETHNICITIES, CULTURES, AND LIVED EXPERIENCES. MORE IMPORTANTLY, I LEARNED THE QUALITIES THAT DEFINE TRUE LEADERSHIP: EMPATHY, INTEGRITY, AND A GENUINE COMMITMENT TO SERVICE.

ACTIVISM AND THE ACADEME

Sarmiento’s journey into public service wasn’t planned—it was shaped by years of advocacy, grassroots work, and a firsthand understanding of the struggles faced by ordinary Filipinos. She started out as a teacher at St. Scholastica’s College in Manila, but it was her work in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that opened her eyes to deeper social issues. As an assistant trainer at the Institute of Religion and Culture, she became immersed in community work, and later, during her nearly ten years at the Center for Women’s Resources, she delved into research on women’s issues, organizing and engaging middle class women in volunteerism. This was where she found her calling as a feminist and an advocate for gender equality. Her academic background—an undergraduate degree in Philippine studies with a focus on anthropology and history, followed by a master’s in anthropology from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman—gave her the analytical tools to understand communities and their needs. But it was her years on the ground, working alongside the people, that truly shaped her perspective. Through it all, she developed a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse cultures and the kind of leadership rooted in empathy, action, and unwavering commitment to the people she serves.

“My academic training, combined with my experience in NGO work, equipped me with the essential skills to understand and analyze community concerns and people’s needs. It also taught me how to develop and implement strategies to address these issues in close collaboration with the affected constituents,” Sarmiento says. “Through this journey, I gained a deep appreciation for the rich diversity of our people—their ethnicities, cultures, and lived experiences. More importantly, I learned the qualities that define true leadership: empathy, integrity, and a genuine commitment to service.”

As a student at UP in the 1970s, Sarmiento was deeply involved in university politics and grassroots advocacy, driven by a strong sense of duty to the people who made her education possible. As an Iskolar ng Bayan (Scholar of the People), she embraced the belief that students of state universities, whose education is funded by taxes, carry a responsibility to give back. "Being a student activist in the ‘70s, we called ourselves Iskolar ng Bayan because the government funds the state university through the people’s taxes," Sarmiento recalls. "We believed we had to pay the people back. It was our commitment and patriotic duty to serve in the best way possible, especially with a deep concern for the poor and disadvantaged." This sentiment became the foundation of her lifelong advocacy—one rooted in service, social justice, and an unwavering dedication to uplifting marginalized communities.

While at university, Sarmiento was instrumental in forming teams focused on education outreach for the Aeta community in Botolan, Zambales. It was there that she was first exposed to indigenous knowledge, particularly the Aeta’s practices in cultivating and propagating native trees. This experience left a lasting impact, shaping her understanding of sustainability and deepening her commitment to social responsibility. It wasn’t just an academic pursuit, it was a hands-on lesson on cultural preservation and environmental stewardship.

Reflecting on her time as an activist, Sarmiento says, “One of the key perspectives I embraced was nationalism—caring for and loving our country, people, and culture. Equally important was social responsibility. We have a duty to serve our country in every way possible. Engaging in political and social development is essential to driving transformation and improving the lives of everyone, especially the poor and underserved. These values align with the very core mission of public service.”

BACK TO HER ROOTS

For more than 40 years, Sarmiento built her life in Quezon City, where she met her husband, former Commission on Elections Commissioner Rene Sarmiento, and raised their three children. Though she had left her hometown of San Narciso, Zambales, she never lost her connection to it. She would return occasionally, but in 1995, she and her husband made a life changing decision to purchase farmland in Zambales, land that had been buried under lahar after the Mount Pinatubo eruption.

What began as a simple effort to rehabilitate the land soon became a lifelong commitment to environmental conservation. Sarmiento planted thousands of trees, not just on her property but throughout the community, rallying neighbors and local organizations to join her in reforestation efforts. She established tree nurseries, restoring the once-barren land, and over time, the property evolved into more than just a farm. She and her husband built a small house, followed by a retreat and education center that welcomed students, environmentalists, and community leaders eager to learn about conservation. This deep engagement with grassroots environmental work strengthened her passion for community development.

Sarmiento’s dedication to public service extended beyond environmental advocacy. She entered local governance, first as a barangay council member and later as punong barangay (barangay chairman) of her Quezon City community. Recognizing her leadership, then-Mayor Sonny Belmonte appointed her to head the city's livelihood development program, where she played a key role in shaping policies, including the landmark Quezon City Ordinance on Reproductive Health for women.

Even while serving in local government, Sarmiento remained steadfast in her advocacy work. In 2001, she co-founded KaTimpuyog Zambales, an NGO composed of environmentalists and city-based professionals dedicated to sustainability and environmental education. The organization conducted seminars for barangay officials on solid waste management and conservation efforts and spearheaded tree nursery initiatives and reforestation programs.

One of the NGO’s standout initiatives is the Pawikan Conservation Project, known as PAWICARE—a grassroots effort that has evolved into a remarkable conservation success story. Launched in 2011 by KaTimpuyog Zambales, the project began as a small community movement to protect sea turtles in San Narciso. Partnering with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Biodiversity Management Bureau, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and local fisherfolk—many of whom were once poachers but are now committed Pawikan Rangers—the program quickly gained traction. With the support of fundraising and strong community backing, a sanctuary was established in a coastal barangay, providing a safe space for nesting and ensuring the survival of hatchlings. When Sarmiento assumed office as mayor in 2016, the local government formally adopted the program. “Today, the conservation program has been listed among the province’s valuable tourist attractions. We have organized an annual Pawikan Festival,” Sarmiento proudly shares.

Her work in both government and activism was driven by the same principle: giving back to the people. “Engaging with local communities about pressing issues in our province gradually deepened my interest in community development and effective governance,” she reflects. What started as a personal journey back to her roots became something greater—a lifelong commitment to nurturing both the land and the people who call it home.

FIRST WOMAN MAYOR

Sarmiento made a significant personal sacrifice when she decided to move back to San Narciso in 2015, leaving behind the comforts of city life and, more importantly, her family to immerse herself in the community she had long advocated for. Her deep involvement in environmental initiatives had already required her to shuttle between Zambales and Quezon City, but choosing to reside in her hometown full-time marked a turning point. Living in San Narciso allowed her to see the inner workings of the municipal government firsthand. She observed its governance structure and felt a growing conviction that things could and should be done better. “In 2015, I made the decision to return to San Narciso, and by 2016, I was running for local office,” she shares. “I had to make arrangements to shuttle back and forth between the city and my hometown, sacrificing time with my family. But I knew this was necessary. I dedicated my time and resources to organizing a network of supporters across the barrios and the town proper, believing that change starts with the people.”

Sarmiento made history as the first woman to serve as San Narciso’s local chief executive. While she saw this as both an honor and a privilege, the weight of being the town’s f irst woman mayor brought immense pressure, not because she doubted her capabilities, but because of the challenges posed by internal politics. “As a woman leader, I experienced being underestimated and even faced instances of discrimination, including sexual harassment,” she shares. “But I believe that leadership— whether male or female—should be defined by competence, accountability, and a deep understanding of people’s needs and aspirations.

A leader must be engaging, compassionate, and able to communicate effectively with people from all walks of life.”

Despite that, Sarmiento never wavered in her belief that leadership is not about gender but about making a real difference. The moment she assumed office, she made it a priority to equip herself and her team with the knowledge they needed to govern effectively. She enrolled in training programs, ensuring that she and her staff understood the intricacies of local governance.

 As she settled into her role, the community’s most pressing issues became impossible to ignore. Development lacked clear direction, and valuable resources such as land, forests, and coastal areas were underutilized. She quickly realized that change would not come from leadership alone. It required empowering both government personnel and the people themselves. Upskilling local officials became a priority, as did fostering community engagement in shaping their town’s future.

UNDER SARMIENTO’S LEADERSHIP, THE ONCE SLEEPY TOWN OF SAN NARCISO TRANSFORMED INTO A THRIVING, DYNAMIC COMMUNITY WITH A STRONGER ECONOMY AND MORE ENGAGED GOVERNANCE.

Even before assuming office, Sarmiento had already seen the depth of poverty in her hometown. Many lacked access to basic health services as well as safe and decent housing; and streets were not well-lit. Job opportunities were scarce, and without the right skills or entrepreneurial support, residents struggled to make a sustainable living. She knew then that her leadership would not just be about governance. It had to be about building a future where no one was left behind.

THE THREE P’s AND D’s

Sarmiento anchored her administration on six core principles: Direction, Development Orientation, and Dynamic Leadership, alongside Purpose-Driven Governance, People’s Participation, and Patience and Perseverance. These guiding values shaped her policies and reinforced her commitment to community driven progress. She takes inspiration from Jorge Cuervo’s Leaders Don’t Command: Inspire Growth, Ingenuity, and Collaboration, which emphasizes that true leadership is about creating a shared vision and purpose—an approach she strives to embody.

 For Sarmiento, people’s participation is not just a principle but a necessity. She believes that effective governance requires empowering residents to take an active role in planning and decision-making. Encouraging them to share ideas and submit proposals ensures that initiatives truly serve the community. “I always recall the saying: ‘Give someone a fish, and they eat for a day. Teach them to fish, and they eat for a lifetime,’” she reflects.

Though she grew up in relative comfort and did not experience poverty firsthand, Sarmiento has long been attuned to the struggles of those around her. She assures her constituents that, despite her background, she listens, understands, and remains deeply committed to uplifting their lives. More than implementing policies, she sees governance as a collective effort. “Being consultative as a leadership style is very important. To me, the most fulfilling part is showing ordinary citizens that they, too, can shape their community’s future. And most of all, seeing people appreciate the work we do for them.”

Lastly, Sarmiento believes that patience and perseverance are essential in governance, whether in dealing with constituents, coordinating with her staff, or engaging with provincial and national leaders. She emphasizes that truly understanding community needs requires time and active communication with barangay leaders to address pressing issues effectively. Building networks and fostering collaboration demand persistence, especially when lobbying for support from sangguniang bayan (municipal council) members and the provincial board. Negotiations, particularly with the private sector, must be carefully planned to secure meaningful concessions and ensure that development efforts align with the best interests of the community.

PROJECTS FOR PROGRESS

As mayor, Sarmiento is at the forefront of transforming her hometown. She has done this through a series of strategic and community-based initiatives in infrastructure development, security, and public service improvements. Among her key accomplishments are the construction of new market buildings and the modernization of public facilities such as health centers, government offices, and parks. Repairs and upgrades to barangay halls and schools have also been prioritized, ensuring that essential services are delivered in well maintained spaces. To improve safety and security, solar street lights have been installed in all barangays, while a network of CCTV cameras now monitors key roads, government offices, and business hubs.

To bolster disaster preparedness and public services, Sarmiento has invested in heavy equipment and service vehicles, improving the town’s ability to respond to emergencies. Economic development has also been a priority, with programs supporting agriculture, fisheries, and small businesses, fostering self-reliance and entrepreneurship. Health and social services have expanded to better serve the youth, elderly, women, single parents, and persons with disabilities. Public campaigns on nutrition, sexual health, and environmental awareness have helped build a more informed community. Capacity-building initiatives, including staff training and emergency drills, have strengthened local governance and public safety. Cultural revival has also been a focus. Festivals like Tumba Tumba, Ran-Raniag ti Pascua, and the Pawikan Festival have strengthened local identity, while the Paradisdis Festival and its surfing competition have boosted tourism.

Sarmiento remains committed to balancing development with environmental protection, a challenge highlighted by recent controversies over dredging in Zambales. San Narciso has become a focal point for these operations, raising concerns about environmental harm. Sarmiento defended the initiative, stressing that dredging is essential for flood prevention. “After the Mount Pinatubo eruption in 1991, lahar deposits clogged the Sto. Tomas, Maloma, and Bucao rivers, increasing the risk of flooding,” She explains. “The government had to build new bridges and reinforce riverbanks with dikes. Dredging, authorized by the DENR under strict guidelines, is necessary to manage these deposits and protect our towns.”

The mayor rejected claims that dredging has disrupted daily life and harmed the environment as unsubstantiated and politically motivated. “We need an accurate narrative to dispel misinformation,” she says. Beyond flood control, Sarmiento’s administration has introduced policies to prevent overexploitation of resources, regulate chemical use in agriculture, and reduce plastic consumption. She also emphasizes the importance of developing tourism while preserving San Narciso’s cultural and natural assets.

HER VISION

Sarmiento's mission as mayor is far from over. Her agenda prioritizes environmental sustainability, economic growth, and cultural development. She plans to expand renewable energy use, support the Pawikan Conservation Program, promote biking, improve waste management, encourage organic farming, and adopt eco-friendly architectural designs. Regular coastal cleanups are also part of her strategy to protect the town’s natural resources.

On the economic front, Sarmiento aims to attract investors and build a new municipal complex featuring a government hall, legislative building, cultural museum, and commercial centers. A major housing project is currently being conceptualized in partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development. “The envisioned housing complex will cater to government personnel and young couples from the private and informal sectors who aspire to have their own homes,” Sarmiento explains. “We anticipate interest from personnel of the Philippine Navy and graduates of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, both of which have a presence in our town and neighboring San Antonio.” She adds that the expanded community would create opportunities for new commercial and industrial investments, generating additional revenue for the local government and increasing its capacity to provide social services. This development is part of a broader effort to align with the province’s growth trajectory and strengthen San Narciso’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

Sarmiento’s leadership has already delivered measurable results, including San Narciso’s recent reclassification from a Fourth Class to a Third Class municipality—a significant indicator of improved fiscal performance. “Municipalities and cities are classified based on their share of the National Tax Allotment and locally collected revenues,” she explains. “Reclassification now happens every three years, and we aim to reach First Class status by 2028.” To enrich local culture, Sarmiento proposes planting native flowering trees and establishing cultural and educational hubs for the arts and academic programs.

 True to her nature as a consultative leader, Sarmiento believes that this vision is one the entire community shares. “Our victories wouldn’t be possible without your support,” she emphasizes. To see the town’s progress continue, she calls on her constituents to stand with her. “I seek your support so we can keep building on the programs and services we’ve started—planned and carried out with input from barangays and your representatives. It’s a privilege to serve you, my kailians (townmates). Thank you for giving me that opportunity.”

Mayor Abad-Sarmiento also feels so grateful to her family, her very supportive husband Rene, their children, and brothers Ramon, Paulo, Rolito, Stevic, Arnel; Town mates; Mayor's Office staff and all LGU personnel; Team OK party members; and the Great Almighty in helping her bring about effective governance in their municipality.