< Back Raissa Above the Storm Bomb survivor and double amputee, Councilor Raissa Laurel-Subijano, is living a life with no limits and inspiring impactful leadership as councilor of San Juan BY ANNA CHATO PHOTOGRAPHY BY RENJIE TOLENTINO STYLING BY FLOE TAPAYAN OF KANEBO Seated at her desk, Raissa paints the picture of a typical young, hardworking woman in government, with papers piled high on top of the table. Bright eyed and idealistic, Raissa speaks without cynicism and brims with positivity. It seems unlikely that this young lady— with all her optimism—was the victim of a bomb blast that took both her legs seven years earlier. In 2010, while waiting on Taft Avenue for her friends to finish the bar exams in the law school tradition of salubong, an explosion shook the crowd. The next thing she knew, she was lying on the street with her legs mangled. At the young age of 23, with only a 20% chance of surviving, she had to undergo the amputation of both legs below the knee. She was a second year law student at San Sebastian College at the time. After her operation, she had told her friends who came to visit her, “Why are you sad? Be happy! I’m alive.” Her radiant smile welcomed them and instead of their encouraging her, she encouraged them. “I’m blessed with a second chance at life,” she says simply, and adds that she’s transforming the weight of that unfortunate, senseless, and violent incident into something inspiring and worthy of a second chance. THE WISDOM OF THE GOOD COUNCILOR Despite the spiritual weight of her physical downfall, Raissa Laurel-Subijano was elected councilor of San Juan City in May 2016. As councilor, her main duty is to participate in the making of laws in the form of ordinances for the city. She holds advocacies and is currently the chairperson of three committees: Committee on Social Services, Women, Children, and Persons with Disabilities’ Welfare; Committee on Laws and Ethics; and Committee on Public Order, Safety, and Illegal Drugs. As a PWD herself, Raissa is pushing forward the rights of the disabled, and in 2017, the council approved an ordinance providing registered indigent Persons with Disability (PWD) in San Juan City with benefits and allotting funds for that purpose. Ordinances creating new schools, such as the San Juan Science High School in Barangay St. Joseph, the San Juan Technical-Vocational and Livelihood Senior High School also in Barangay St. Joseph, and the Emilio Jacinto Elementary School and High School in Barangay Batis, were also passed. “Being a leader doesn’t mean na paimportante ka,” she says and one wonders where her enthusiasm comes from. She explains that she saw herself as a simple person, that her running for office was not planned, though she has always had a heart for public service. “It’s really my dream because I have a heart for service, but it seemed impossible,” she shares. Click here to read full article for free

< Back USEC. RICARDO B. JALAD BY MARIEL ABANES Usec. Jalad of OCD and NDRRMC believes in the power of building a culture of preparedness.

< Back THE KING OF THE NORTH Narvacan, Ilocos Sur Mayor Chavit Singson’s style of governance is marked by the merger of strength and strictness. What are his plans now? BY KRISTEL DACUMOS LAGORZA PHOTOGRAPHY BY IVAN LLANETA What we need now is a benevolent dictator,” states 78-year-old Luis “Chavit” Singson with a deliberate nod. It’s a controversial statement from an equally controversial figure. But he is unafraid of sharing his opinion, one formed from almost 50 years in politics. “Instead of dictator, perhaps the better term is disciplinarian, baka masamain nila ang dictator (They might misconstrue it),” he laughs. But Singson is unapologetic about his views. He means what he says, and says what he intends. MAN OF LEGEND Singson, one of the most powerful—and fascinating—Filipino politicians of his generation, is no stranger to scandal or controversy. He has waded through such for decades and has quite proudly survived attempts to discredit his reputation, and even more gravely, to end his life. Singson has already dodged death like a cat with nine lives. “Before I was elected, I was ambushed six times. And on the seventh attempt, it happened while I was dancing in the town fiesta after my win; two grenades were thrown at me.” Several people died that night, including the woman he was dancing with. “Luckily, she shielded me and took all the shrapnel,” he recalls. Just another day in the life of this politician. After so many attempts, he’s grown a thick skin and is unbothered by any other possible threats. “I believe in destiny. Every time I survive, they say, may mission ka pa,may mission ka pa,” he mentions in a previous interview. “I might not go to Mass, but I do have a direct line to God.” From serving as governor of Ilocos Sur for a total of nearly 29 years, to being a key figure in the events leading to the impeachment of President Joseph Estrada in 2001, to assuming power in the north yet again as current mayor of Narvacan, Singson is forthright with what he thinks is needed for the country to progress. “Simple lang, kailangan natin disiplina (It’s simple. We need to be disciplined),” he stresses. “We lack nationalism in the sense that we fail to follow laws that are already in place. That is why I believe what we need is a benevolent dictator, because that’s what the current situation requires. We need a leader who is strict and who people will fear enough to follow. Because abusado tayo (we are abusive).” While strict, Singson also believes in having a leader who is forgiving as well. Referring to the seventh ambush, he shares, “Nahuli lahat, nakulong lahat, but pinatawad ko din lahat. Ako naglabas sa kanila sa bilangguan. And ngayon, magkakaibigan na kami. (All of the perpetrators were caught and jailed, but I forgave and had them released. Today, we’re all friends.)” This unique ideal and mold of a leader is what Singson has patterned himself after, merging strength and strictness to serve his people. WIN AFTER WIN In the last elections, Singson won the mayoralty race with 16,551 votes, defeating Edgardo Zaragoza, the father of then-mayor Zuriel. This was a significant win as it ended the Zaragoza clan’s threedecade reign in Narvacan. The people spoke through the polls, and saw in Singson a leader who could fulfill their wants. "WHAT WE NEED IS A BENEVOLENT DICTATOR. WE NEED A LEADER WHO IS STRICT AND WHO PEOPLE WILL FEAR ENOUGH TO FOLLOW. BECAUSE ABUSADO TAYO (WE ARE ABUSIVE).” In his birthplace Vigan, as he walks through the public markets and the famous Calle Crisologo, he is swarmed by the locals and out-of-town visitors. He gamely poses for each and every selfie; he is welcomed like family among friends. But elsewhere, he acknowledges that he’s met with a little fear and hesitation as he can be intimidating. And it is perhaps because of the many folk legends that have attached themselves to the largerthan-life politician. Regardless, he says he’s too old to explain everything and please everyone. And when it comes to public service, Singson says, “Your work will speak for you.” Singson notes many accomplishments he is proud to have achieved as a public servant. One of these is Republic Act (RA) Reflecting on his years as governor, Singson discloses, “We were considered as one of the notorious provinces at that time. There were political deaths every day. And you would not have been able to restore peace and order, if you weren’t strict with the people and demanded discipline from your followers.” The province then was deeply mired in political rivalry, with families vying for coveted local government positions. He claimed that blood was shed, with threats constantly exchanged, but Singson sought to end the bitter war. He’s frank about this particular period in his political life, and insists that the story be shared, because this was one of the means that helped pave the way for peace in his region. “Kasi yung mga followers ko, nung nanalo na ako, gusto gumanti. Sabi ko, hindi No. 7171, the sole law he authored during his term as congressman from 1987 to 1992. RA 7171, or the Tobacco Excise Tax Law, mandates that 15% of the tax collected from the tobacco industry be returned to the tobaccogrowing provinces of Ilocos Norte, Abra, La Union, and Ilocos Sur. These provinces account for at least 60% of the national yield. This law aims to improve the lives of farmers by giving them greater lead to use their funds in agricultural development. Singson, notably, was also once a major tobacco industry player. PEACE REGAINED In addition to helping tobacco producers through legislation, Singson proudly touts having achieved peace in Ilocos Sur, then deemed the “wild, wild north.” Reflecting on his years as governor, Singson discloses, “We were considered as one of the notorious provinces at that time. There were political deaths every day. And you would not have been able to restore peace and order, if you weren’t strict with the people and demanded discipline from your followers.” The province then was deeply mired in political rivalry, with families vying for coveted local government positions. He claimed that blood was shed, with threats constantly exchanged, but Singson sought to end the bitter war. He’s frank about this particular period in his political life, and insists that the story be shared, because this was one of the means that helped pave the way for peace in his region. “Kasi yung mga followers ko, nung nanalo na ako, gusto gumanti. Sabi ko, hindi pwede. Hindi na natin pwede ibalik yung mga namatay na kamag-anak n’yo. Kung gaganti kayo, wala nang katapusan ang patayan dito sa atin. So ipinagbawal ko yung gumanti. (When I won, my followers wanted revenge. And I said, I can’t allow that. We can’t bring back the dead. If we continue to seek revenge, there will be no end to this.) “The only way to achieve reconciliation in a peaceful way,” he says, “is to be sincere with the want for peace.” This is a lesson important for him to share, because all over the Philippines, he says you’ll find numerous areas rife with conflict, stemming from longstanding political feuds. “But more can be achieved if we leave ‘politics’ out of politics, and just do what is best for our people,” he says. CONNECTING PEOPLE His call for unity is also reflected in many of his initiatives including the ambitious project of bringing greater interconnectivity to the region. Last October 2019, Singson led the groundbreaking ceremony in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur, where the Philippines’ first shared cell tower will rise. This is the first of at least 50,000 (but he notes as high as 70,000) towers to be built across the region, which will be supported by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). This project will be led by LCS Holdings Inc. (his company), in partnership with Thailand’s UA Withya PCL. “What we aim to do here is address the lack of cell sites in the country to further improve our competitiveness. As compared to Vietnam, which has 70,000 towers, we only have a mere 18,000, which is why we experience spotty mobile services.” Through this endeavor, WiFi can be enjoyed by all for free. He proudly shares that Narvacan and all its barangays now enjoy the full privilege, and soon the surrounding municipalities will, too. Contrary to what many may think, Singson’s efforts to provide free WiFi are not a mere pandering to the young, digital savvy generation. It’s part of a greater strategic economic plan to strengthen the digital power of the region. The future is digital, he says, with everything—businesses, education, public services—tied to the efficiency of telecom services. Economic transformation begins with the adoption of more digital technology. How do you expect businesses to become competitive; how do you expect children to learn and be at par [with their global counterparts] if we do not equip them with the tools needed for growth,” he points out. Education is also one of the soon-to-be octogenarian’s key priorities, and he takes great pride in having provided scholarships to hundreds of worthy students. “I don’t believe in dole outs. I find people who deserve the help, or they come to me. Sa akin, knowledge is wealth, yan ang tunay na yaman.” In addition to tuition support, he has also donated homes and helped farmers and entrepreneurs bounce back from crippling calamities. TOURISM: KEY DRIVER OF PROGRESS For the seasoned public servant and businessman, tourism is the other priority area of development aside from education and telecommunications. With regard to this industry, he’s also made a head start, transforming his personal properties in Vigan into a tourist destination. Baluarte, a sprawling 100-hectare farm, is home to hundreds of wild animals, including deer, giraffes, ostriches, zebras, camels, and his favorite tigers and lions—all transported from around the globe. A big game hunter, Singson shows off his biggest and most prized hunts in a museum where visitors can marvel at massive black bears, elephants, tigers, and the whole lot. These attractions, which are open to the public at no cost, help ensure the continuous flow of tourists to Ilocos Sur. Singson’s focus on tourism also prompted him to host the highly successful Miss Universe 2016 pageant. Candidates wined and dined, and were brought to the most beautiful corners of the country on his private jets with private security. Needless to say, the successful staging of the pageant that year further highlighted the Philippines’ position as a growing and strengthening player in regional and global tourism. The Baluarte and the Singson Museum have helped define Ilocos Sur as not only a proud heritage site, but a thriving tourist destination, and there is definitely more that can be done, says the Narvacan mayor. Another of his projects that he’s excited to see completed is the Jesus Christ statue, touted to one day become the tallest religious statue in the world. At its proposed height of 121 feet, the Jesus Christ statue, which will sit at the foot of one of the hilly ranges in Ilocos Sur, will tower over the Statue of Liberty and the Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The paperwork for its construction are underway and Singson notes that if all goes well, the statue will be up in one to two years. SEAL THE DEAL Singson is happy to flex his skill and talent as a nimble dealmaker, rolling out his projects with such swiftness and urgency. One of his strengths he mentions is that he never waits. “I analyze, and make a decision immediately.” And this quality, which is important in effective leadership, is what he also brings to the table as the new League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) president, assisting the 68 municipalities that are part of the organization. The LMP, in essence, works hand-in-hand with the national government in the development and implementation of policies, programs, and projects affecting municipalities. In addition, it supplements the efforts of the national government in creating opportunities for gainful employment within the municipalities. Singson prides himself on being someone who is able to see the bigger picture, a master negotiator, and a compelling leader who can bring key players to the table and have them work together to make things happen. For the indefatigable politician, time is his new currency and he squeezes it for everything it’s got. “As LMP president, I hope to teach and show others how things can be done more efficiently and effectively, not through politicking but by supporting local leadership and demanding accountability from the leaders,” he says. “They have to deliver on their promises, and they have to deliver it by a deadline,” he nods. Politics is definitely dirty business, says Singson, and you need to have the grit and character to power through all the mudslinging. “In fact, I’ve said to my children, don’t go into politics.” But Singson has grown a thick skin over time, and this is why he has survived for as long as he has. JUST GOT LUCKY On most days, Singson admits that he’s become restless, sleeping a mere few hours a night. But that’s enough to power him through his often-packed schedule, which includes flying back and forth from Manila to Ilocos on his private plane with guests and business partners on board. On these short trips, which last around 45 minutes to an hour, he indulges in his favorite past time, a simple game of cards with his flight attendants who have become his friends and family. They squeal when they win, and collect their bets from Chavit. “It makes me happy,” he says of his hobby. “But it’s still me who often wins,” he says with a chuckle. From surviving assassination attempts to outliving enemies, to further growing his business empire, to serving his constituents for another fruitful term as mayor, it seems that Chavit has been on a winning streak his whole life. He shrugs. “I don’t know; I just must be lucky,” he ends. Click here to read full article for free

< Back REALIZING DREAMS BY NOVIE ROSE NUÑEZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA JR. Struggles and hindrances did not stop Marilao, Bulacan Mayor Ricardo ‘Ricky’ Silvestre from becoming who he is today, someone constantly serving the people. Tourists visiting this 1st class municipality located two hours away from Metro Manila, will be greeted by colorful and vibrant surroundings. The atmosphere in Marilao, Bulacan can only be described as calm and peaceful, a textbook countryside vibe accentuated by the sunflowers and warm breeze. Beyond the soothing aesthetics of the town, its citizens are just as welcoming, positively reflecting their culture and governance. SERIES OF FORTUNATE EVENTS Behind the current success of Marilao is none other than Mayor Ricardo “Ricky” Silvestre. But before all the achievements that eventually led to him leading the municipality, he led life full of struggles. “Noong 14 years old ako, second year high school, napilitan lang akong tapusin ang second year sapagkat ang kuya kong marino ay nagkasakit kaya minabuti ko na ako na ang magtrabaho para sa pamilya niya. Tumigil ako ng pag-aaral—naggapas ako ng palay, nagtibag ng bato, hanggang sa napunta ako sa construction (When I was 14 years old, I was in second year high school, I was forced to stop my studies because my older brother who was a seaman got sick and I had to work for his family. My schooling ended—did odd jobs such as harvesting rice and quarrying rocks, and then eventually I landed a job in construction).” Silvestre says that their life was simple back then, and he tried almost every manual job available at the time. He became a carpenter, electrician, plumber, and even mason. Then, in 1992, he became a contractor and started his own construction firm, Silvestre Builders. His luck started to turn after he launched his own business. At the young age of 19, Silvestre managed to buy a padiri, pugad ng baboy, and a rest house. Two years later, he married his wife Maria Luisa. “So, ‘yun ang pinagsimulan natin at nangarap [pa] noong 1994 na magsilbi sa barangay (So, that’s where I started to dream of serving our barangay, in 1994).” Back then, his vision and ultimate goal was to eradicate drugs within Barangay Patubig in Sta. Maria, Bulacan. He says, “Noong panahon na ‘yon, masyadong malakas ‘yung drugs kaya sabi ko rin sa sarili ko na why not mag-try akong lumaban na punong barangay para malipol ko naman ‘yung drugs na ‘yon. Ang nangyari doon sa barangay namin noon, nawala ‘yung problema sa droga (Back then, there were a lot of illegal drugs [in our barangay]. I then thought of running for barangay chairperson to eliminate drugs, and [when I was elected], we managed to get rid of the drugs).” After eliminating illegal drugs in his barangay, Silvestre implemented more projects and programs. He proudly shares that during his first term as barangay chairperson, he offered school supplies and medicines to his constituents for free. “Naging barangay chairman ako ng labing anim na taon, barangay pa lamang ginawa ko nang libre lahat ng gamit pang-eskwela. Libre lahat ng gamot sa pangkaraniwang sakit, kami lang ang bukod tanging barangay na naglagay ng sariling doktor sa barangay. Sapagkat mahal ko ang kabarangay ko (I was the barangay chairman for 16 years. I gave free school supplies and even medicine for common illnesses—all for free. We were the only barangay that had a doctor on staff. Because I love my constituents).” MOVING FORWARD INTO BIGGER DREAMS Silvestre’s love for the people, beyond the confines of Barangay Patubig, flourished over time. The beauty of liwasang pangkalikasan has been Silvestre’s vision since he became a barangay chairman and when he got a chance to realize it in the municipality of Marilao, he then grabbed the opportunity. He says that his vision of liwasang pangkalikasan is something he hopes to apply at the national level someday. In 2019, while campaigning in mayoral race, he told the people, “Basura niyong nabubulok, ibabalik ko sa tahanan ninyo sa pamamagitan ng mga namumungang halaman (We will use your trash to plant fruit-bearing plants in your homes).” He adds, “Ang ginawa ko rito, ‘yung lupang mataba, tinamnan namin, pinamunga namin, tsaka namin dinala sa mga kabahayan. Nagtanim ako ng limampung libong talong, okra, kamatis, sili para siyang ipamigay sa bahay-bahay at sila ay makumbinsi ko [na] ang basura nilang nabubulok ay ihiwalay nila para magamit namin ito [at] para magawa naming lupang mataba. Ganon ang ginagawa natin (We planted vegetables on the fertile soil and waited for these to bear fruits before distributing these to the people. I planted five thousand seedlings of eggplants, ladies’ fingers, tomatoes, chili to distribute house-to-house and to convince the people that they should segregate their waste to produce fertilizers. It’s something we do until today).” Silvestre’s efforts toward the liwasang pangkalikasan benefited not only the environment but also the citizens. Aside from the community gardens, the town also has a materials recovery facilities (MRF) where waste is segregated before being turned into tiles, vases, and pillars. Improving his constituents’ livelihood is another proud achievement of the public servant. Silvestre shares that because of this initiative, dozens of Marileños have jobs. He shares, “Kahit wala silang sweldo sa pamahalaang bayan pero yung nagpipili ng basura, kanila na ‘yung makukuha nila. Nakapagbebenta ang bawat isa [ng mga] limang libo pataas bawat linggo. Ibig sabihin, kumikita sila ng dalawampung libo kada buwan (Even if they don’t receive salary from the government, they earn from segragating the waste materials collected. They earn up to five thousand pesos every week from selling [recylables]. That’s twenty thousand pesos a month).” Although they do not have compensation from the local government of Marilao, Silvestre made sure that they are still supported by giving them additional assistance like uniforms, gadgets, face masks, alcohol, and boots to keep them protected from the hazards of garbage and chemicals. He gratefully shares that they are a huge help in the municipality’s goal to further lessen the 15 percent waste of Marilao, Bulacan. This is 15 percent of over 7 million waste materials produced by the town. In addition, Silvestre mentions that the LGU has managed to save money by only using a budgeted over a million pesos to collect the waste materials. AHEAD OF HIS VISION “Kapag ang bawat lugar [ay] maraming mas mahirap kesa may pera, lahat ng bayan nangangailangan ng libreng hospital (When every community has more financially challenged families than those who have money, then every municipality needs a free hospital),” Silvestre reveals when asked about the biggest concern he faces in Marilao. In order to accomplish this, he has allocated a budget of Php200 million every year. Silvestre also adds that he is planning to build a hospital with up to a 100-bed capacity. “Ang talagang kailangang pera ay Php200 million a year. ‘Yun ang panggastos mo para mai-operate mo ang isang pangpublikong hospital (We need a Php200 million annual budget to cover operating expenses of a public hospital),” he adds. “When every community has more financially challenged families than those who have money, then every municipality needs a free hospital.” Silvestre also plans to provide an MRF for each barangay. He explains, “Para sa ganon sa barangay palang may pagkukunan na ng pera ‘yung mga nandoon. Pwede na sila na bawat barangay ay mayroon silang makuha na 2-3 [percent] na basura (So that even at the barangay-level, the people will earn money. It’s possible that each barangay will collect 2-3 [percent] of wastes).” He further says that his initiative in barangays’ waste management was done when the LGU donated a garbage truck to each of Marilao’s 16 barangays. Aside from garbage trucks, Silvestre also purchased 16 ambulances. “Sabay sabay kong pinurchase ang labing anim na ambulance dahil ayokong may isang kapitan o may sakit tatawag sa Office of the Mayor [para sabihing], ‘Wala pong ambulansya.’ Kung apat ang ambulansya ng Marilao noon, talagang mas-short (I purchased 16 ambulances in one go because I don’t want a barangay chairman or a sick person calling in my office saying, ‘We don’t have an ambulance.’ If there are only four ambulances in Marilao before, there will really be a shortage).” EXPANDING VISIONS Even after nearly 20 years of public service, he has never forgotten the initiatives he launched in his barangay which he now carries over as a mayor. One of these, as mentioned, is education. “Ako ang nagsimula ng scholarship program sa bayan ng Marilao. Kasi sa barangay namin, may kinuha agad akong scholar. Ang unang binigay ko sa scholar ko ay unang sweldo ko sa barangay tapos taon-taon nagdadagdag na ako [ng budget] (I started the scholarship in Marilao. In our barangay, I used to have a similar program. The first educational assistance I gave was actually from my very first salary in barangay then eventually, every year, I would gradually increase the budget).” Through his ingenuity, Silvestre says that this program was considered by then-Mayor Epifanio Guillermo and continued by former Mayor Juanito Santiago. He also shares that when he was first seated in the office, the program only had 900 scholars but now they currently have 1,600 scholars. They are still accepting applications and expect to add 1,500 more, serving more than 3000 scholars in total. He further explains, “Ang programa mo, sundan na lang nang sundan ‘yon dahil palakihin mo na lang nang palakihin ‘yung scholar (You should constantly continue your program because all you have to do is to increase the number of scholars).” “Ganon tayo nag-iisip. Kailangan yung isang project ay maging continuous, hindi mapuputol. Kailangan mahaba vision mo (That’s how we think. It’s important that that one project should be continuous, not unsustainable. You have to expand your vision),” he notes. DELIGHTED TO SERVE Although Silvestre was not raise and born in Marilao, as he is natively fromSta. Maria, he has learned to love the town and its people. “Paano ko hindi mamahalin [ang Marilao]? Dito ako nagka-pamilya, dito ako nagka-anak, dito ako nagka-apo, dito ako umasenso. Sabi ko nga sa sarili ko, mas mahal ko ang bayan napuntahan ko kesa sa bayan sa kung saan ako isinilang. Kaya mahal na mahal ko ang bayan na ‘to (How could I not love [Marilao]? This is where I built my family, where we had children, where I had grandchildren, where I became successful. I love this place more than my hometown. That’s why I really love this town),” he ends. DOWNLOAD FULL ISSUE HERE FOR FREE

< Back Old Town Meets New Blood BY GRACE BAUTISTA CARIGARA, LEYTE’S 26-YEAR-OLD MAYOR EDUARDO ONG JR. IS DETERMINED TO ELEVATE THE 452-YEAR-OLD MUNICIPALITY F ounded in January 1571, the Municipality of Carigara, Leyte was the first town established in the Eastern Visayas region. In its nearly 500 years of existence, the town has seen its fair share of public servants come and go—starting, of course, with the leader after whom it was named. As legend goes, Carigara was founded by a certain Datu Gara who landed on the bay with his 77-member clan. The town came to be called ‘Kan Gara (Belonging to Gara)’ but its name evolved into Carigara when the Spaniards arrived. IN WITH THE NEW Long gone is the era of the early settlers and Spaniards, and now at the helm is Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr. At 26 years old, Ong is one of the youngest local chief executives in the country. With his fresh take on public service, the mayor is resolute in clearing cobwebs, revitalizing the town, and getting rid of old, outdated practices. Less than a week before this year’s observance of Black Saturday, Ong decided to cancel a 400-year-old tradition which is the Turogpo Festival. Named after the Waray word meaning “to meet,” the festival involves three animal fighting events. Two carabaos fight each other in the Pasungay, two horses battle each other in the Paaway, and lastly, 49 roosters (representing the town’s 49 barangays) are pitted against each other in one big fight until the sole surviving rooster is declared the winner in the Carambola. Despite the backlash from canceling the event, Ong went ahead with his decision, citing the Animal Welfare Act of 1998. In its official statement, the municipal government cited Section 6 of the law: “It shall be unlawful for any person to torture any animal, to neglect to provide adequate care, sustenance, or shelter, or maltreat any animal or to subject any dog or horse to dog fights or horse fights, kill or cause or procure to be tortured or deprived of adequate care, sustenance, or shelter, or maltreat or use the same in research experiments not expressly authorized by the Committee on Animal Welfare.” Instead of the animal fighting events, Ong decided that a mass and a short program will make for a more meaningful celebration. While he received criticism from older citizens who were used to the centuries-old event, the mayor also received much praise from animal lovers all over the country, not to mention the regional office of the Department of Agriculture (DA) which coordinated with the local government unit in addressing concerns regarding said festival. “Even when I was still vice mayor, I was already pushing for the cancellation of the animal fighting] events. It’s against policy. I understand where the public backlash was coming from; they’re used to the festival and its accompanying traditions. But we have to cancel the Turogpo Festival because it’s unlawful; we have to follow the national law,” Ong says matter-of-factly. Ong’s decisions, however, are not solely fueled by the need to follow laws. Despite his seemingly stoic persona, his actions reveal his genuine compassion for his people. Last June 18, 2022, the local government held a Pride celebration for the LGBTQIA+ community of Carigara. Titled “Inclusivity and Acceptance: Carigara Embraces Pride in All Colors,” the celebration started with an “Understanding SOGIESC Seminar” held in the LGU Function Hall. This was followed by the Pride march around Carigara’s town proper. Afterward, a concert was held at the LGU grounds and included performances by local artists who are also members of the LGBTQIA+ community. While the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill continues to be a divisive topic at all levels of government, Ong laments the misconception behind the bill which prevents it from being pushed forward to enactment. “When they say SOGIE Bill, they automatically assume that it’s only about gay marriage, which isn’t true. What the bill is pushing for is equality in all areas, including but not limited to job opportunities. Right now, whether we like it or not, the [LGBTQIA+] community is still not fully accepted. I see this both in government and the private sector. This is why it is important for this bill to be pushed in Congress,” Ong stresses. Carigara was among the LGUs praised by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) for its Pride Month celebration (which the local government plans to hold yearly) and for approving a resolution that “promotes equal rights and condemns discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community.” In a statement, CHR Executive Director Jacqueline Ann de Guia said that the commission “appreciates the initiatives of these LGUs to mainstream the plight of the vulnerable LGBTQIA+ and ensure a safe and enabling space in their respective jurisdictions.” FOLLOWING HIS FATHER’S FOOTSTEPS While the mayor is not afraid to blaze his own path and make his own decisions for the town, he is also humble enough to admit that plenty of what he knows about public service (and what drew him to it) came from his father, Eduardo “Boy” Ong Sr. “My father was my role model and his involvement in government is what introduced our family to public service and its many aspects,” he reveals. However, much of what the younger Ong has learned from his father was not through words per se, but rather just by witnessing him render service firsthand. Ong shares that their family as a whole has a very introverted nature and that his father was a man of a few words—a demeanor, he quips, he may have inherited. Ong’s foray into governance began when he approached his father with his desire to run as councilor. It didn’t take much convincing from the senior Ong for him to run as vice mayor instead, in tandem with his father who was then gunning for the mayoralty. They clinched both positions and ran the town as a duo. When asked about the experience of being a vice mayor under his father, Ong shares: “Actually, it went smoothly because we agree on a lot of things so we hardly clashed on any decision. His executive plans complemented our legislative decisions, and vice versa, so we barely had any problems.” In the recent 2022 elections, the father-son tandem exchanged positions, and Ong Jr. found himself as the mayor, once again with his father by his side. Unfortunately, Ong Sr. passed away on December 7 last year due to cardiac arrest. The 66-year-old had served as Carigara’s local chief executive for three terms. With his father’s passing, Ong remains true to his quiet nature but shares that his father, who he looks up to, imbued him with the value of integrity as a public servant. The mayor says that his decisiveness and strong political will stem from this lesson. He also inherited his father ’s “talk less, work more” mantra, for which he is grateful because it continues to guide him to focus on the municipality rather than the politics or the noise. “Politics will always find a way to affect work, to interfere with governance. Even with the smallest of decisions. But I don’t let it undermine my decision-making as a leader,” Ong underscores. REVITALIZING CARIGARA The De La Salle University (DLSU) alumnus aims to implement innovative solutions to address the town’s existing problems and to prevent future issues from emerging. His bachelor’s degree in Management shines through as he launched several programs, some of which he began during his time as vice mayor. As an example, the computer literacy program teaches basic computer skills to elementary students with the help of Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) Carigara Campus students who are majoring in Information Technology (IT). The program, which began prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, proved useful as the global health emergency shifted education to take on an online approach to curb the spread of the virus. Ong also shares that the local government is currently in talks with the national government, particularly the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for land reclamation, citing similar projects like the area of the Mall of Asia (MOA) in Pasay City. “With the added space, we hope to invite more investors which, in turn, will yield more livelihood and job opportunities for the people of Carigara,” Ong says, addressing the congestion in the business districts in Leyte province and the lack of commercial space in their town. Some concerns, the mayor explains, require simple solutions. As such, he has provided Php200,000 worth of financial assistance to all 49 barangays in the municipality to help the barangays with their proposed projects. “Tungkod (Cane) Tuesdays” is another project that he launched long ago but is continuing now as mayor; to provide canes to senior citizens and persons with disability. (PWDs). “[Giving them canes] is such a simple gesture, but it creates such a big impact in their lives because it helps with their mobility. I personally oversee the turnover every week because the project means a lot to me,” the mayor adds. Another simple project with big results is the initiative to distribute 1,500 chessboards to young children across the town. Apart from keeping the children entertained, to keep them off the streets and turning to vices or illegal activities, Ong shares that chess exercises their minds. Another added bonus is that the project keeps the dying art of chess alive. Ong has plenty of projects centered on the youth and making sure that they stay active and focused, such as the distribution of basketball rings and boards, and volleyball nets. But the mayor has also concretized roads, built covered courts and health centers, and launched more infrastructure projects that benefit thousands in their dayto- day living. With all of these efforts, the mayor hopes to elevate the municipality from its status as a second-class municipality to first-class. Still, Ong is aware that achieving such would not mean the end of the problems in their municipality. “No LGU is perfect and there will always be problems in every town. But what I can promise the people of Carigara is that we’ll face these problems together,” Ong ends.

< Back Upholding People-centric Leadership BY ROSY MINA PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA JR. With his 15 years of public service experience, Congressman Dale “Along” Malapitan continues to uphold the family name, ensuring that they are approachable and willing to help. Aregular Thursday at the Malapitan household in Caloocan City is unusual for most—with the home bustling with strangers from all walks of life, bringing forth their concerns to the patriarch, Mayor Oscar “Oca” Malapitan. “Labas-pasok sa bahay namin kaya madidinig mo ‘yung mga problema, at kung papaano niya sinosolusyunan (They freely go in and out of the house. You get to hear their problems, and how he finds solutions to them),” Mayor Oca’s son, Caloocan 1st District Representative Dale “Along” Malapitan, tells LEAGUE Magazine. The weekly event is dubbed “People’s Day,” wherein Mayor Oca reaches out to more constituents and provides ways to alleviate their situation. It is also a play on their last name, “Malapitan,” which means to get close to or easily approachable in Filipino. Consequently, being a witness to such initiative and welcoming nature was one of the reasons why Malapitan decided to follow in his father’s footsteps, even if he had no intention of joining politics. “Doon sa kaniya ko nakita ‘yung papaano maging isang leader, gaano kasarap ‘yung tumutulong (I learned how to be a leader by observing my father, [and] the fulfillment in helping others).” He saw the needs of the people of Caloocan and wanted to help address them, too. Just like his father, who started out as a councilor before becoming vice mayor, mayor, and congressman, Malapitan worked his way up the public service ladder. At 24 years old, he started his political career by operating his father’s district office. Three years later, in 2007, he won as a barangay chairperson, counting among his constituents his childhood friends whom he played with on the streets of his beloved city. His experience spanning 15 years also saw him become a councilor and president of the Liga ng mga Barangay before being elected as a congressman. “Nakita ko lang ‘yung daddy ko, ‘yung masaya siya sa ginagawa niya. Nakita ko ‘yung every day na kahit pagod ka, umuuwi kang masaya kasi nagiging productive ‘yung araw-araw mo (I saw my father who is genuinely happy in his work. Every day, I experienced going home happy because even if I’m tired, the day is always productive). It is fulfilling,” he shares. ‘PEOPLE’S DAY’ AMID THE PANDEMIC Extending help to Caloocan constituents in various forms, such as medical and livelihood assistance, was at the core of “People’s Day.” “Lahat ng kailangan nila na puwede naming ibigay na tulong ([We took care of] all their needs that we could possibly solve),” he adds. However, due to the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, constituents trooped to their home more often, turning the weekly “People’s Day” into a daily engagement. It became so overwhelming, and he shares, “[There were times that] you really had to dive into your own pockets, your own savings [to provide for their needs].” They also had to relocate the venue of “People’s Day” in order to protect the elders in their household from contracting the novel coronavirus. Because of this, he remarks that the pandemic that began in March 2020 is the most challenging problem he has ever encountered in his public servant life. “Kailangan siyempre mag-adjust ka din ng galaw mo dahil kailangan mong mag-ingat dahil siyempre, ayaw mo rin mahawa ‘yung pamilya mo. Pero hindi rin naman pupuwedeng magkulong ka dahil may obligation ka rin sa city mo (Of course we had to adjust our operations because we had to keep ourselves and our families safe [from the virus]. But you also can’t stay at home forever because you have an obligation to the city).” Medical assistance continued to be free for as long as the recipient is from Caloocan, and several programs of the national government were brought forth to help displaced workers. “Many people lost their jobs. [This led to] many going hungry so we prioritized providing food. As for their jobs, we coordinated with agencies and this led to the implementation of the TUPAD programs of the government.” TUPAD, which stands for Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers, is under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also has programs to distribute ayuda or assistance. One of these is the Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situations (ASICS). Malapitan believes that aside from providing assistance to those in need, greater help is done when work opportunities are given to beneficiaries, even if these are menial tasks such as sweeping one’s street front. “Importante lang, may ginagawa. Ang mahirap kasi ‘pag puro ayuda, ang tao masasanay na maghihintay lang (It’s important for people to have something to do. The problem with just giving dole-outs is people will get used to simply waiting for assistance),” he says. “Mas masarap kumita kapag pinaghirapan mo (It feels much better to earn money that you know you worked hard for). It’s also important to maintain people’s dignity. They’re not beggars, they can work in exchange for financial assistance and such. They just need opportunities.” UPHOLDING HIS FATHER’S LEGACY Helping those in need is at the core of the Malapitan leadership, and the congressman says that thinking of those in need truly drives him to carry on. It is the same driving force for his mayoral candidacy this year, as his father is in his last term. And he vouches to continue with his brand of leadership that is straightforward and efficient. “May nagsasabing influencer daw ako. Pero ako, ginagawa ko lang kung ano ‘yung nakikita kong kailangan. Tapos ‘yung vision ko lang sa city na gusto kong ituloy, pinu-push ko lang (Many call me an influencer. But for me, I’m just doing what needs to be done. And I continue to push for my vision for the city).” The father of two also assures that there will be continuity in Caloocan should he be elected to succeed his dad. “Because for me, Caloocan has greatly improved. Caloocan has changed [for the better] under the administration of my daddy. So that is what I want, to continue [his good work],” he explains. “Kailangan ituloy kasi magpapalit ka. Kahit gaano kagaling ang pumalit kay Mayor Oca, kung hindi mo itutuloy ‘yan, back to zero eh. Kaya ang kailangan ngayon, ituloy mo, dagdagan mo (It has to be continued because the election will change things. No matter how good the successor of Mayor Oca is, if he will not continue [those projects], things will be back to zero. That’s why I need to continue his work, and add more improvements).” No matter the result of the polls in May, Malapitan assures his constituents of his constant concern and support for them. “Lagi naman nakahanda akong tumulong sa kanila (I am always ready to help them),” he states. “Kung saan man ako makarating, maging mayor ako o sa ibang posisyon man, hindi mawawala na ang Caloocan magiging priority ko lagi (Whatever happens to me, if I become mayor or end up in another position, Caloocan will always be my priority).” GETTING THINGS DONE Malapitan has no qualms about possibly shifting from a legislative to an executive position, given his 15 years of experience as a politician. “Enjoy kasi ako sa public service. Mismo na pagtulong eh so andun ‘yun, pasok siya sa pagiging barangay captain, pasok din siya sa pagiging congressman (I truly enjoy public service. Helping others is integral to the job, whether you’re a barangay captain or congressman).” He has had many memorable moments in his political career but considers the first bill that he steered into enactment as the best so far. “Yun ‘yung in-upgrade ko ‘yung bed capacity ng (That was when I upgraded the bed capacity of) Jose Rodriguez Memorial Hospital from 200 beds to 800 beds. And then from a tertiary hospital, naging medical center siya (it became a medical center). He also puts a premium on education, being the author of free college education at the University of Caloocan City (UCC). Malapitan also authored the creation of the College of Law at UCC as well as the provision of allowances to students of Caloocan Science and Technology High School. “And then ‘pag tinignan mo ang records ng DepEd (Department of Education), magmula dati sa lahat ng mga previous na naging congressman ng Caloocan, ako ‘yung may hawak nung record na may pinakamaraming classrooms na napagawa (If you check the records of DepEd, considering all previous congressmen of Caloocan, I hold the record of having most classrooms built).” As his term as a lawmaker ends soon, he proudly shares that he has passed the bill on having a Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Caloocan. “We are just waiting for the approved bill to be signed into law. We are just waiting for the signature of the President and then we will have a PUP here in Caloocan.” With his accomplishments, Malapitan chooses not to identify a big event or achievement as his greatest or proudest moment in public service. For him, the simple things are just as significant. “Siyempre every day, ‘yung sa akin, basta umuwi akong nakatulong, masaya ako (Of course when I get home every day knowing that I’ve helped, I’m already happy).” This also holds true for days when he does not have a busy schedule and would just go around, citing that what matters most is “every time na may nagawa kang nakatulong ka, na alam mong nakabago ng buhay ng tao (Every time that you’ve done something to help someone, that you know you have changed a person’s life).” DOWNLOAD FULL ISSUE HERE FOR FREE

< Back Lead like a Commoner Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia on breaking away from stereotypes and leading the City of Bacolod to greater heights BY HELEN HERNANE PHOTOGRAPHY BY WILLIAM TRONCO Known as the “Sugarbowl of the Philippines,” Negros Occidental is the country’s biggest producer of sugar. Because of their vast wealth, sugar mill owners and hacienderos once had a firm hold on local politics, often winning government seats. “They were the so-called ‘royal families.’ If you’re not a ‘royalty,’ you cannot become governor or mayor,” recalls Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia, stressing on the huge divide in terms of social strata. Despite this stereotype, Mayor Leonardia, a “commoner,” ran for public office. He shares, “I belong to the middle class and I was fighting a dynasty. So I was risking my political career and future, just to show to the people of Bacolod that even if you’re not rich, if people want you, you can become mayor." Mayor Leonardia conquered what most people thought was impossible. With his steely resolve, he created a paradigm shift in the city’s political landscape. ACCIDENTAL POLITICIAN Mayor Leonardia was born to a family of nine children, with him as the youngest. His father, Jose Tulo Leonardia Sr., worked as a government employee while his mother, Ester Ramos, was a housewife. Click here to read full article for free

< Back Philippine Dragon Boat Team Paddle Their Way to Victory By Edwin Allan Diaz The Philippine Dragon Boat Elite Team awards from different dragon boat competitions in Hong Kong and Macao, China. During the B-Finals (Minor) of the 2023 SJM Macao International Dragon Boat Races, the national team won first place in the 500-meter Open Standard Boat and the 500-meter Women Standard Boat events. The Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (PDBF) established the Elite Team from various dragon boat clubs in the Philippines. Over 200 registered clubs signed up for the races, held at the Nam Van Lake Nautical Centre on June 17, 18, and 22. Team Elite also secured podium finishes in the 2023 Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races. They won a silver medal in the Shangri-La International Mixed Grand Championship and a bronze medal in the International Championship from June 24 to 25 at Victoria Harbour. ALWAYS GIVING THEIR ALL In a Facebook post, the PDBF said they were not expecting anything in Hong Kong because there were 165 participating teams: "Powerhouse dragon boat crews are also here from Thailand, China, Macao, Australia, Poland, Japan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and other countries, which made this ordeal extra hard, yet exciting and worth it." The national team was also the third runner-up in the International Open Grand Championship and International Women's Championship and the fourth runner-up in the International Women's Grand Championship, International Mixed Championship, and Hong Kong-Macao Trophy. For PDBF President Atty. Jay Pee Villanueva, Elite delivered more than what was expected of them. The country only joined the Macao-Hong Kong races as a tune-up for the 16th World Dragon Boat Racing Championships in Pattaya, Thailand, with funding coming from their own pockets or solicitations. Most of the teams they competed against will also be present in the Thailand race. "We had to dip our feet into the waters and expose our new athletes to the kind of competition that we will be facing. Exposure lang pero nag-trophy, nag-medal (For exposure only, but we managed to win a trophy, a medal), so we're very happy with that," Villanueva said. According to Women's Crew Assistant Team Captain Marjorie Duran, the team prepared for three months, training six times a week with one active rest day. They only trained from 4 am to 8 am, since most of them were civilians and had work after training. "It's a combination of boat training, running, sprints, land drills, weightlifting. Once a week, pool paddling and swimming. Some members who are from the military train in the afternoon together (in the] swimming pool, paddling, or gym," Duran tells LEAGUE. NATIONAL PRIDE The PBDF expresses its gratitude for the overwhelming support of Filipinos in Hong Kong and Macao. "Nakakadagdag lakas ang bawat hiyaw ng mga kababayan nating proud na proud maging Pinoy dahil binibigyang karangalan natin ang bansa (Our countrymen who [were there] were very proud to be Filipino because of the recognition we were giving to our country, [and] their cheers gave us a lot of additional strength)." The Elite paddlers owe their wins to Ged, ther captains, coaches, managers, and the PDBF staff. "Limitado man ang aming pagkain, inumin at bitamina, [pero] hindi ito naging hadlang para ibuhos ng tropa ang lahat ng makakaya hanggang huli para sa bayan (Our Filipino rowers may have had limited food, drinks, and vitamins, but this did not hinder them from giving their all until the end for the nation)!" The national team also thanks their families and clubs in the PDBF; the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for the travel tax exemption; the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and other government agencies for their pledges; the Philippine Consulate General in Macao; and the Armed Forces of the Philippines General Headquarters (AFP GHQ). "Just super thankful for the support, love, and warmth, especially to all the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in HK and Macao who really cheered for us and some even gave us food. They motivate us to fight more," says Duran.

< Back BORONGAN CITY, EASTERN SAMAR HER HEART BEATS FOR BORONGAN Mayor Maria Fe Abunda on driving Borongan City, Eastern Samar to become a selfsustaining, safe, and disaster-resilient city BY MALOU E. ROSAL If her surname rings a bell, that is because Borongan City, Eastern Samar mayor, Maria Fe Abunda, has a famous brother. None other than Filipino television host, publicist, talent manager, and celebrity endorser, local show business’ “King of Talk” himself, Boy Abunda. “Somehow as her sister, I am occasionally and sometimes unwillingly able to share a little of the spotlight because of his public persona,” Mayor Abunda shares. “When I attend meetings or seminars, I would often be asked how I am related to him. They simply would say, ‘Sister po ba kayo ni Boy Abunda? We’re glad to meet you, Ma’am.’ And then sometimes the expectations soar higher…I get to be compared to him. But he is the multi-awarded talk show host. And I am the local chief executive of Borongan.” Quite a role-reversal from their childhood days. Growing up in Borongan, she was very sporty and athletic as a child, playing nuru-singkulay and luksong-tinik with kids her age. “I was quite competitive and decisive. I matured quickly,” she recalls. “Maybe because as the only older sibling to my brother Boy, I had been trained early by my parents to assume the role of a grown-up sister and from that, I came out very authoritative. But don’ t get me wrong. I am also very protective of my family, especially of my younger brother.” Mayor Abunda extends this same care and concern for family to her constituents in Borongan. Her parents’ example was also pivotal to her calling for public service. She recounts how her mother, known to many as Nanay Lesing, was a former elementary school teacher, who later became a member of the then Sangguniang Bayan of Borongan, then went on to be elected as the town’s vice mayor. On the other hand, her father, who was fondly called Totoy Enyong, was a former barangay official before becoming a councilor of their town. Despite the power and influence associated with such positions, the Abunda family lived humbly and quietly. She says, “We led a modest and simple life, lar gely because our parents taught us that way.” Working as a nurse before she was elected into public office, Mayor Abunda draws from her family’s values as she now shows her care and concern for her constituents in Borongan. WORKING FOR THE PEOPLE Closest to the mayor ’s heart is her pet project, “Baysay Borongan” or “Beautiful Borongan,” designed to make Borongan a mabaysay or beautiful place. As an advocate for the environment, Mayor Abunda pushed for this clean and green program, assigning street cleaners to maintain the cleanliness of roads, streets, and alleys on Baybay Boulevard. They were also tasked with planting flowering plants and trees along the roads and in parks, as well as proper garbage disposal. While very strict with the implementation of this program (even checking on the work in progress while jogging on the streets at three o’clock in the morning), she also displays a soft and nurturing side when she eats with the workers or remembering them first come Christmas and other occasions. “Not only did I encourage them to participate in cleaning our roads and streets, I was also able to integrate an exceptional work ethic to our employees and to our people, in general. And we also see to it that when they prove worthy , they can be elevated to a higher position, should there be a necessity for hiring that would arise,” Click here to read full article for free

< Back ENSURING JUSTICE FOR EVERYONE By Godfrey T. Dancel PHOTOGRAPHY BY IVAN LLANETA Assistant Solicitor General Angelita V. Miranda talks about ensuring the administration of justice. When Assistant Solicitor General (ASG) Angelita Villanueva Miranda—whose name literally means “a messenger of God who is worthy of admiration”—speaks, people listen. Beyond the soft, unassuming voice is a woman of real substance, a living testament to how personal success could be used in the service of one’s fellowmen. THE REPUBLIC’S DEFENDER, THE PEOPLE’S TRIBUNE Since her appointment as one of 30 ASGs in 2016, Miranda has been one of the more visible ASGs, or top lawyers of the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG). Her involvement in various cases has showcased the important role the OSG plays in the administration of justice in the country. With such, people have become interested in knowing about the OSG. “The OSG has two primary functions. It is both the Republic’s defender and the People’s tribune,” Miranda states. “As the Republic’s defender, the OSG is the principal counsel for the State, and represents the Government of the Philippines, its agencies and instrumentalities and its officials and agents in any litigation, proceeding, investigation, or matter requiring the services of a lawyer. As tribune of the People, the OSG is the bastion of justice. The OSG ensures that justice will prevail. When a criminal case is decided against the accused and the latter appeals his conviction, the OSG always represents the People when the case is elevated to a higher court. However, while the OSG represents the People, it will still evaluate whether the required quantum of evidence has been met, that is proof beyond reasonable doubt. If the evidence on record is bereft of moral certainty that the accused is guilty of the crime, the OSG will not hesitate to recommend for the accused’s acquittal.” The legal eagle highlights the unique function of the OSG as People’s tribune. “The OSG acting as the tribune of the People, insulates itself from political pressure and acts on its own volition. At times the OSG takes a contrary position to its traditional clients—the government agencies —in order to advance the welfare of the People, and promote the general interest of the State as a whole.” “The OSG is involved in a variety of cases ranging from criminal cases on appeal, nullity of marriage, land registration, adoption, special proceedings, and all cases involving constitutional issues. For its part, the Office of the Prosecutor handles criminal cases in the lower courts. But once these are elevated to the Court of Appeals (CA) and the Supreme Court (SC), it is the OSG that represents the People of the Philippines,” Miranda explains. LEAVING THE SHORE FOR THE OCEAN “You cannot appreciate the beauty of the ocean unless you have the courage to leave the shore.” This quote serves as Miranda’s guide in her endeavors. “I’m so motivated by that,” she says of the quote. “You see, I had a very challenging childhood due to the inequalities of life, but I dared to leave our hometown, to see the beauty of the world. I struggled hard to finish my education, and to accomplish what I have and what I am today. My success did not come easy but it was mainly because of my dedication to pursue higher learning, and with a firm belief that God will always be with me in all of my pursuits in the legal arena.” Miranda had to leave Barangay San Antonio in Donsol, Sorsogon, to pursue her college education. It was no easy sailing for Miranda, the youngest in a brood of nine. “I had to apply for a scholarship. And then I qualified for a Civil Engineering course at Bicol University, under the ‘Study Now Pay Later’ plan. So that was my initial step to enter college,” Miranda recalls. She later on transferred to Far Eastern Air Transport Incorporated (FEATI) University in Manila, taking her even farther away from home. “And after that, one of my sisters, an accountancy graduate, encouraged me to shift to BSBA Accountancy for a better opportunity and as a prelude to a higher educational undertaking.” Seeing accountancy as a possible tool for financial stability, Miranda pursued such at the New Era University, where she was a dean’s lister and graduated in 1983. “After that I went into business,” Miranda says, beaming as she shares how profitable her business became. “But then again, there were challenges like bouncing checks, so I asked myself, ‘Ano ba talaga ang batas (What does the law actually say)?’ One person owed me Php500,000 at that time, 1988, and issued a bad check. That incident prompted me to pursue legal education by taking up Bachelor of Laws at the Faculty of Civil Law at the University of Santo Tomas (UST).” Miranda attributes her success, first, to her being God-fearing, and her dedication to whatever undertaking she gets into. Miranda shares, “Anuman ang inyong ginagawa, gawin ninyo nang buong puso na parang sa Panginoon kayo naglilingkod at hindi sa tao (Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people).” PARAGON OF EXCELLENCE Miranda truely has excelled—and still does. After becoming a lawyer in 1998, Miranda joined the OSG, and demonstrated her legal prowess. Her intelligence, dedication, and willingness to learn did not escape her superiors, who took due notice and gave her the chance to bloom. Slowly but steadily, she rose through the ranks, from the entry-level position of associate solicitor to ASG, just a step below the highest position in the OSG. Today, Miranda—affectionately called Justice Angie—is a paragon of dedication to public service and excellence in the legal profession. With her much-deserved fame, Miranda has, over the years, been considered for other positions outside the OSG. However, the very nature of her job has kept her from accepting such offers. “Maybe it’s the work. I think it’s really the work that goes with it, the mandate, because imagine [the OSG is both] the People’s tribune and Republic’s defender. Also, I just thought that being a member of the bench would limit what I have started and accomplished, and what I further seek to achieve in serving the Republic best,” she shares. One thing for sure though, is Miranda’s love for the OSG and those who make up the office. “I love the people. I treat my lawyers as family,” she says. “They are really good at their jobs.” ENSURING THE REPUBLIC’S VICTORY Together with fellow top-notch lawyers, Miranda has successfully defended the Republic of the Philippines in a number of high-profile cases. One of these is the Philippine International Air Terminals Company (PIATCO) case, involving the operations of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. She was part of the OSG team that successfully defended the government in the case filed by PIATCO at the International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) in Washington D.C., USA. In 2018, Miranda was one of the ASGs chosen to represent the government in the case filed by Shell Corporation BV and Shell Malampaya LCC against the Philippine government at ICSID. The case involves over USD 53 billion in income taxes levied by the government on Shell and its partners in a consortium involved in a natural gas project in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The case is still pending at ICSID. Her successful prosecution of high-profile drug suspect Kerwin Espinosa earned Miranda and her Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Felix Angelo Bautista (FAB) Division team an award in the OSG’s Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) Committee Strategic Security Sectoral Performance Award in 2018. A year later, Miranda and her team successfully defended then-President Rodrigo Duterte and other high-ranking government officials in writs of amparo and habeas data cases filed by the National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL) and human rights alliance Karapatan before the Supreme Court. FIGHTING TERRORISM Not quite known to many Filipinos, the OSG, through Miranda, also plays a vital role in the campaign against the 53 long years of communist rebellion in the country, as well as the continued operation of suspected communist front organizations. This role of hers is by virtue of her being the head of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTFELCAC) Legal Cooperation Cluster (LCC). The NTF-ELCAC is the task force formed in 2018 by Duterte as he institutionalized the government’s Whole-of-Nation Approach in resolving the problem of communist insurgency. “As chair of the Legal Cooperation Cluster, I lead the legal offensive against communist terrorist groups and provide legal guidance to all other NTF-ELCAC clusters,” Miranda summarizes her role in the much-talked about government body. Staying true to her role at the NTF-ELCAC LCC has meant Miranda regularly “eats criticisms for breakfast.” Asked how she deals with criticisms and controversies, the outspoken lawyer says she has mastered how to handle such “with grace and [with appropriate actions based on] the provisions of the law.” INSPIRED BY THE BEST “To be candid about it, I have lots of inspirations,” Miranda shares when asked about the people she looks up to. “You know why? Because [different] people inspire me in different ways.” She cites former Solicitor General and present Energy Regulatory Commission Chairperson Agnes Devanadera because “she gave me lots of chances to shine.” Miranda also holds another former Solicitor General and erstwhile Commission on Audit (CoA) Chairperson Jose Calida, in high esteem, especially because of his simple but effective “Win, win, win!” mantra. Miranda, herself now an inspiration to younger lawyers at the OSG, reveals that she is drawn to people with “brilliant minds.” Among these are SC justices, “especially if they write beautiful decisions” as these inspire her to ensure the delivery of justice and serve the people even more. She also mentions a former chief executive as being one of her inspirations, “In fairness to all the presidents, I do love President Rodrigo Duterte.” She relates an incident that happened before the Duterte administration, where the Philippine delegation to the review of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) were looked down upon, leaving her longing for the time when Filipinos would be accorded due respect in bilateral or multilateral negotiations. “The VFA was being reviewed in Hawaii, and I was part of the Philippine delegation. I was representing the OSG then. With me was the then-head of the International Law Unit of the Judge Advocate General Office and now my fellow Assistant Solicitor General Karen Abad Ong, who was representing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP),” Miranda recalls. “Our suggestions and opinions were discarded when we were insisting that a particular provision should be followed to protect Filipinos, especially the members of the AFP. And then, one American general said, ‘Ah, you don’t want to take our aid. So, it’s up to you.’ It was an arrogant utterance which was uncalled for. But during the time of President Duterte, no such similar incident was allowed to happen because of the President’s toughness and readiness to protect the Filipino people.” Over and above these, Miranda draws inspiration and happiness from family and friends who have been with her throughout her journey. “I have an adopted son, who is eight years old. I am also blessed to have my siblings and my mother. My mom, by the way, is 99 years old and is still very active. I am equally blessed to have friends like Justice Ong,” she shares. SERVING THE REPUBLIC, SERVING GOD Indeed, it takes a special kind of public servant-lawyer to lead a team in one of the most important legal offices in the land. Miranda is definitely cut out for the job. Miranda describes herself as a “stickler for excellent sevice who employs a participative or democratic type of leadership.” She adds, “I make things done irrespective of the situation, and explore those roads less taken, so to speak, without offending the basic tenets of our social order. And, in recognition of our inherent limitation that no one has a monopoly of best judgment, I seek my team’s bright ideas.” “Yes. I’m very strict,” Miranda admits. But she is quick to add that it is because for her, “serving the Republic is serving God. So, we’re not going to short-change the Republic and the Filipino people. You’re paying taxes. So I see to it that all the work be done, and excellently at that.” “But then again, there’s always love,” she avers, referring to how she relates with her lawyers and staff. “Yes. And I do more of coaching and mentoring because I want them to know the essence of public service, and that is, a public office is a public trust.” GIVING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD For Miranda, leaving Donsol does not mean turning her back on her townmates. Even as she left the shores of her hometown long ago, Miranda makes it a point to look back and give back. “Actually, I’ve been going back and forth there,” she reveals. “In fact, because for me, education is the best way to alleviate poverty, [I have decided to help deserving students get a good education]. So I have some scholars and some of them have graduated already. And with this, their lives have changed for the better.” With her legal expertise, clear sense of right and wrong, as well as gift of words, Miranda would do well as an elected government official. Asked whether she plans to one day seek an elective post, she gives an emphatic “No.” “I can continue my public service without seeking an elective office,” she asserts, adding that engaging in politics runs counter to her religious beliefs as a proud member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC). This leads one to ask, does Miranda need to leave the legal profession to be of service to more Filipinos? She need not look far, actually. Her six-year stint as ASG has been nothing but fabulous—not just because of her being the head of the FAB Division but due to her many accomplishments—and she is a natural candidate for the agency’s top post. Miranda’s journey has taken her from Donsol to Makati, where the OSG compound is located. Being still in progress, this journey could take her a little farther, to the heart of Manila, particularly one august building complex along Padre Faura St. where the country’s top legal minds decide on the most important of cases. “Well, all lawyers dream that,” she says of being an SC justice. “If it’s the will of God, [I will be willing and ready to take on the job. That is] the pinnacle of success for lawyers.” Meanwhile, we can worry a little less about the administration of justice in the country. As Miranda assures, “The OSG will be right beside you to advance and promote your welfare.” “Serving the Republic is serving God. So, we’re not going to short-change the Republic and the Filipino people. You’re paying taxes. So I see to it that all the work be done, and excellently at that.” Buy magazine here