< Back A RESILIENT Leadership BY CAMILLE CABAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL SORIANO Young but rich in experience, Barangay Magallanes, Makati Chairperson Alzona has successfully steered his community through the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic that hit the country has become the primary concern of the country’s leaders, from national leaders to barangay officials since 2020. And as with other communities, Makati City’s Barangay Magallanes was not spared from the challenges brought about by the pandemic. However, the trying times proved how ready Barangay Chairman Jose Mari Alzona is. Although new to the position when the pandemic struck, the young barangay chairperson of Makati says that having been part of the Sangguniang Kabataan and his experiences as a barangay kagawad prepared him for leadership in the face of a health crisis. Age also played a major role. “The age factor also helped me to think of ways on how to start mitigating the pandemic,” Alzona says, noting that youth became an advantage in plotting a pandemic response for his constituents. AS ONE COMMUNITY As leader of Barangay Magallanes, it is Alzona’s responsibility to provide food supplies and other daily essentials not just for his staff but also everyone in the barangay. He proved that his young leadership can do what is needed as long as it is supported with proper communication. When news about the pandemic broke, Alzona called for a meeting together with other officials and stakeholders, started planning the modified traffic scheme and procedures in the area, and communicated it with everyone. Strict health protocols were also implemented. Alzona immediately responded to his staff’s need for transportation by providing them with a service vehicle to and from the barangay hall. By doing so, Alzona ensured continuous, umhampered barangay services and his staff are kept safe by using barangay vehicles rather than commuting. Alzona also shares how his constituents and the institutions within their barangay held onto each other during the most difficult times. When one of their own tested positive for COVID-19, Alzona proactively had every staff member tested to prevent further spread. Due to the lack of quarantine areas at that time, he found housing for his staff and the church also became their second home when nearby hotels refused to serve as quarantine facilities. Aside from the isolation area provided, Alzona made sure they are provided with food 24/7. With one third of his staff quarantined, Alzona continued operations to serve the rest of the community. He analyzed ongoing projects and adjusted these to the prevailing situation. By bringing government services closer to his constituents, the young chairman made it much easier for the people to meet their needs during the pandemic. For instance, a vacant lot owned by his friend was used as a location for a small market, barbershop, drugstore, and money remittance shop, while still observing physical distancing. A nearby school also lent their campus space so they can maintain proper physical distance while packing supplies. Alzona shares that they gave out three packages, one being a grocery package including two 7-liter bottles of water and the second a disinfection package. He adds that another round of packages was given away for the household helpers, which included face masks, face shields, laundry soap, alcohol, and toiletries. When COVID-19 vaccines became available, Alzona, with the help of the city government, made sure that his constituents got not just what they needed but rather what they wanted. He made sure they were assisted by resident volunteer doctors to make them more comfortable in receiving the vaccine. He also shares that in their last booster vaccine drive, they were able to inoculate 3,000 residents within just four days. COMMUNICATION IS KEY TO A BETTER COMMUNITY Alzona shares that when some of his staff tested positive for COVID-19, he openly shared the information in order to facilitate contact tracing. The discrimination from the residents was inevitable. While the chairman was a bit upset by the discrimination experienced by his staff, he understood that everyone was just being cautious. From planning the traffic flow to disclosing the COVID-19 situation in their barangay, Alzona showed that he understood the importance of being completely open to his constituents. Despite the challenges in disseminating the information and consequences of being transparent, he utilized all available resources so the people who needed his assistance could directly reach him. Alzona subscribed to a premium account in an online meeting platform and converted their regular Viber group chat into a community chat to make sure that everyone’s concerns could be properly addressed. He also let their meetings be aired live so that people could watch and listen to their discussions. Alzona also made sure that Barangay Magallanes’ waste management system was strictly followed during the pandemic. Alzona still believes that as long as there is proper communication, residents will follow. He bought yellow plastic bins, which are also used in hospitals in segregating potential infectious and hazardous wastes. He mandated the environmental policemen to collect only wastes that are properly segregated. He stressed that residents should responsibly segregate their face masks, and other medical rubbish from any other wastes. The barangay gave citation tickets to those who did not abide by their waste management rules to make sure that everyone’s health is safeguarded. Their summer cooking classes were also adjusted during the pandemic when mass gatherings were prohibited. “Everything was online,” Alzona says. He recalls that they would buy and repack the ingredients and bring these to the participants’ houses. Aristocrat owner Slyvia Reyes, who served as their cooking instructor, made sure that all participants learned from their sessions, aside from helping the youth cope with the stress of staying at home and having very limited physical interaction with others. Meanwhile, Alzona’s dream of having a festive fiesta celebration in Barangay Magallanes was also put to a halt. Left with no choice, he opted for an online concert cum fundraiser. The money raised was given to the church as the community’s way of expressing gratitude for opening their place to those in need and were afflicted with the virus. THE CHANGES IN MAGALLANES Having previously served the barangay through the Sangguniang Kabataan and as a kagawad, Alzona saw what Barangay Magallanes was lacking. Being the current chairman gave him the opportunity to fill the gaps—from having almost nothing to being fully equipped and capable. Alzona proudly shares that during his term, the barangay was able to buy its own ambulance and firetruck. He says that he doesn’t want to rely on the city and wait when an emergency happens. It also saved them from expenses of paying for an outsourced ambulance service. He was also able to add another service vehicle and electronic bikes for the barangay’s environmental policemen. Although they have to keep using the old vehicles that the barangay owns, he is proud to provide these emergency must-haves. He says that the barangay is not dependent on the city since it is given the budget for its own needs. Being tagged as the “Gateway to the Financial Capital of the Philippines,” Alzona finds it contradictory if they wouldn’t have their own emergency vehicles. Alzona admits that he is a hoarder and that could be because he likes keeping things he thinks he might need in the future. This is evident in how he is managing the barangay. He says he is a believer of Makati Mayor Abigail Binay’s thinking, “It’s better to have it and not need it rather than to need it and not have it.” True enough, their own firetruck came at a perfect time since it was also used during the pandemic. LEARNINGS OF A LEADER Alzona considers the pandemic a very emotional situation but there is no other way to deal with it but to act and be tough. One of his staff members also testified how Alzona’s character shone through as he led the barangay through the adversity. Early on in his term as barangay chairman, Alzona learned that being a community leader isn’t that easy. “It’s hard but you know, you have to do it, do everything by heart and with dedication,” he says. Alzona’s leadership style shows how age matters. He shares that he treats his staff as his friends. However, he encourages everyone to stay professional when at work. As a proud representative of his people and barangay, he says that Barangay Magallanes is the best place to live in and grow up in because of its geographical location, safety, and the bond shared by the people.

< Back CEBU PUSHES BARANGAY INCENTIVES FOR BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT BY TEODORA MARTINEZ In an earnest attempt to ease the mounting pressure on Cebu City's landfill, the Solid Waste Management Board (SWMB) is charting a path toward more sustainable waste practices, this time with a renewed focus on community participation and accountability. At the heart of the board’s campaign is a proposal to reward barangays that show high waste diversion rates, essentially those that minimize the garbage sent to the landfill through segregation, recycling, and composting efforts. It's a forward-thinking approach that not only promotes environmental responsibility but also offers tangible motivation to local communities. Emma Ramas, chairperson of the SWMB, underscored the urgency of action during an interview on February 2. Citing recent data, she shared that Cebu City generates around 585 tons of garbage daily, a figure that’s steadily rising. Ramas emphasized that if waste segregation had been consistently implemented across all 80 barangays, the city could have saved an estimated Php323 million last year alone—resources that could have gone toward public services or infrastructure improvements. Central to this plan is the revival of the “No segregation, no collection” policy, a strategy that was shelved in mid-2023 under a previous administration. This time around, the policy will come with a more holistic blueprint: composting biodegradable waste to support urban gardening in schools, churches, homes, and businesses—nurturing not just plants, but a culture of environmental stewardship.

< Back Life After Malacañang What exactly is expected of former chief executives? Is there any obligation on their part to perform specific tasks? Is it perfectly normal for them to shun politics? BY GODFREY DANCEL In late June, as President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. prepared to take the country’s reins, he offered to make then-outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte to be his anti-drug czar. Duterte, however, refused the offer. He was said to be preparing to be plain Citizen Rody, spending most of his time in Davao City. The above situation raises some questions. What exactly is expected of former chief executives? Is there any obligation on their part to perform specific tasks? Is it perfectly normal for them to shun politics? As a general rule, former presidents are no longer bound by any official presidential responsibilities after they leave Malacañang, with the one body that should serve as their formal link to the national government being moribund. This does not mean, however, that they would just fade into irrelevance. Following are some primary options available to them. HELP HARMONIZE GOVERNANCE–IN A FORMAL CAPACITY Former presidents—and by extension, former vice presidents—are repositories of knowledge on how to run the government, the country’s history, and of information not known to others. As such, they are logically among the most qualified to give counsel to the incumbent especially on matters of national interest. The above is one of the reasons why, in 2003, then-President Gloria MacapagalArroyo made former presidents members of the Council of State. The council is an advisory body to the president, composed mainly of senior statesmen. Originally established in 1918, the first Council of State’s duty was to harmonize efforts of the executive and legislative departments. This body was composed of the top leaders of the two branches: the governorgeneral, Cabinet members, the House Speaker, and the Senate President. Through the years, the council has had various iterations, with the last changes made almost a decade ago. Despite its expanded composition, which now also includes leaders of leagues of local government units, the council has not been fully maximized. The last time it was convened was in 2006, as Arroyo faced the backlash from the ‘Hello Garci’ scandal. It is interesting to note that even as they are part of the Council of State, former presidents (and any other council member, for that matter) could choose not to participate in the body’s proceedings as a form of protest. STAYING ACTIVE IN ELECTORAL POLITICS Staying active in electoral politics is a direct way for former presidents to continue serving the people. Having occupied the highest position in the country, the former president is naturally considered to have more than the basic capability to head an LGU or serve either of the two chambers of Congress. The 1987 Constitution does not prevent former chief executives from engaging in electoral politics after their presidential term. Specifically, no law explicitly prohibits them from seeking or holding lower elective positions post-presidency. Among the former presidents from 1992, Joseph Estrada and Arroyo have been active in electoral politics. Estrada, whose term was cut short by EDSA Dos in 2001, is the only president post-1986 to give the presidency another try. In September 2007, Estrada was found guilty of plunder and sentenced to life imprisonment. A little over a month later, however, he was granted executive clemency by then-President Arroyo. He ran for the highest office in the general elections of 2010, placing second to eventual winner Benigno C. Aquino III. Estrada went on to serve two terms as mayor of the country’s capital, the City of Manila, from 2013 to 2019. His bid for a third consecutive term in the 2019 local elections fell short. Meanwhile, Arroyo has made her mark in the House of Representatives since she left Malacañang in 2010. She served as Congresswoman of the 2nd District of Pampanga for three consecutive terms from 2010 to 2019. A good part of these nine years was spent under hospital arrest for charges of plunder. The 2016 Supreme Court dismissal of the charges against her paved the way for Arroyo to take a more active role in House affairs. In 2018, following the controversial ouster of House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Arroyo became the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives. Term-limited at the House, Arroyo did not seek any other elective position in the 2019 elections. In late 2020, then-President Duterte appointed her as Presidential Adviser on Clark Programs and Projects. In May this year, Arroyo ran unopposed, reclaiming her old Congressional seat which had been occupied by her son Mikey Arroyo. She played a major role in the UniTeam campaign, and has pledged to support the new administration. RUNNING A FOUNDATION Non-government organizations (NGO) and private foundations play a crucial role in promoting national development, community improvement, and active citizen participation. As parts of civil society, NGOs and foundations can influence the actions of citizens and government officials alike. After her term ended in 1992, Corazon Aquino took on an active force in promoting people empowerment, peace, and human rights. The Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Foundation (BSAF), established in 1983 to perpetuate the legacy of the late senator, served as her main vehicle in her efforts to harness support for the microfinance sector, which she viewed as an integral part of strengthening people power toward fortifying democracy. After Aquino’s demise in 2009, BSAF was renamed Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation (NCAF). The foundation continues to partner with other groups that share their vision of “a more just, humane, equitable, and sustainable society where the youth is empowered to play a central role.” Toward this goal, NCAF has, among others, a program that aims to develop a generation of Filipinos who are willing to take on the role of selfless heroes ready to act on various societal concerns. Meanwhile, Fidel V. Ramos organized and headed the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV) to further his goal of promoting peace and development not only in the Philippines but in the whole of the Asia-Pacific region. Through the foundation, Ramos was able to continue working with the men and women who helped him engineer the economic turnaround that defined his presidency. To this day, RPDEV remains as “a key resource for government and non-government organizations, sociopolitical and civic groups, public policy-makers, private sector leaders, and individual citizens who seek to achieve lasting peace, manage sustainable development, encourage democratic political systems and effective governance, or foster socioeconomic diplomacy.” HELPING SHAPE PUBLIC OPINION Public opinion clearly plays an important role in shaping public policy. Even without a formal position in government, former presidents’ opinions are still valued, if not by the incumbent, at least by their own supporters. Even as Aquino spent time with NCAF, she made it a point to voice her opinion regarding government policies and political realities that she considered counterproductive to sustained efforts at strengthening democratic institutions. Not surprisingly, she spoke up against Ramos’ proposal to amend the 1987 Constitution, a move that could have resulted in extended presidential term limits. She also opposed Estrada’s charter change efforts dubbed Constitutional Correction for Development (Concorde). In 2000, she joined those who called for Estrada’s resignation over allegations of corruption and receiving kickbacks from illegal gambling operations. A year after Arroyo’s election in 2004, Aquino also repeatedly called on her to resign over allegations of rigging the elections. She had previously expressed support for eight Cabinet members who resigned and asked Arroyo to step down. Interestingly, Aquino had no qualms about admitting her (selfdescribed) mistakes, no matter if such admission would ruffle some of her allies’ feathers. In 2008, she publicly apologized to Estrada for her participation in what the pardoned former leader described as his unceremonious exit seven years prior. Although Aquino’s allies from EDSA DOS didn’t take her statement lightly, analysts viewed it as being borne out of her and Estrada’s shared negative sentiments toward Arroyo. Together with Aquino, Ramos was instrumental in the ouster of Estrada. Unlike his predecessor, however, Ramos publicly supported Arroyo in 2005. He also pushed for charter change (Cha-Cha) under Arroyo, with the goal of establishing a unicameral parliamentary system of government. Even at his advanced age, Ramos stayed active during the presidential campaign of 2016, throwing his weight behind Duterte. He, however, soon withdrew support for Duterte over the latter’s war on drugs. Even as he tried to maintain his distance from politics, Aquino III, from time to time, issued public statements to clear his name in relation to the Dengvaxia and Mamasapano issues. In December 2017, Aquino III faced a Senate investigation into the raging Dengvaxia controversy. The Department of Health (DOH) had launched a dengue vaccination program using the Dengvaxia vaccine just a couple of months before Aquino III vacated his post. The department subsequently suspended the program after serious concerns were raised over the vaccine’s possible adverse effects on vaccinated children. As more and more people put the blame on him and his administration, Aquino III attended the inquiry as he wanted to help bring the truth to light. WRITING THEIR AUTOBIOGRAPHY OR MEMOIRS It may not be as common here in the Philippines as it is in other countries, but writing a memoir is something that a former president ought to do. For one, memoirs serve as primary sources of our nation’s history as much as of the author or subject’s personal history. In the second sense, memoirs serve to clarify issues that hounded the president during his or her incumbency, and to share insights for incumbent and future leaders. Earlier this year, Arroyo launched her memoir, entitled “Deus Ex Machina.” This, according to her, is meant to show more of her as a person—student, teacher, economist, wife,—and not so much as a politician, although it does touch on her being a president facing various problems. One of the issues Arroyo addresses through the book is the reason for the infamous “Hello Garci” call. Almost a decade ago, Ramos’ 30-part serialized autobiography entitled “My Personal History” came out in the Japanese Newspaper Nihon Keizai Shimbun. Ramos supporters are awaiting the release of the essays in book form. The supposed “connivance of rich businessmen… with the elite class” that resulted in his ouster midway through his term is one of the main topics discussed in Estrada’s autobiography with the title “Conspiracy of the Elite: How the Presidency Was Taken From Me.” Meanwhile, it took 27 years after the end of her term—and 10 years after her death—Cory Aquino’s memoirs could be published. “To Love Another Day,” which came into being mainly because of her nephew Rapa Lopa’s efforts, is meant “not so much to draw attention to her… but… to share the lessons she learned along the way.” BE MORE OR LESS A “PLAIN CITIZEN” Citizens are wont to cut former ranking officials some slack after such officials end their terms of office. After all, a president’s six years in office could seem a lifetime of pressure. Aquino III generally stayed away from the public eye after he left Malacanang in 2016. According to sources close to him, he received invites to be part of the board of some companies but turned these down. He also turned down requests for him to speak in conferences. With time on his hands, Aquino III was able to indulge in his hobbies, particularly reading books, listening to music, and target shooting. Most of all, he had the opportunity to interact with his nephews and nieces. Of course, being a “plain citizen” or “private citizen” does not mean being apathetic. In the same vein, keeping quiet on some issues does not mean indifference. According to her spokesperson Abigail Valte, Aquino III kept himself abreast of current developments but chose to keep silent on some issues so as not to put “undue burden” on the incumbent. OPTIONS FOR DUTERTE Five weeks into his “retirement,” photos of a motorcycle-riding Duterte making the rounds of Davao at dawn surfaced. Far from his (hyperbolic) statement a few months back that he would spend his time roaming on a motorcycle to run after and shoot drug peddlers, he was seen interacting with soldiers, policemen, and vendors, as well as eating durian. Just like his predecessors, Duterte has all options open to him now that he is no longer the chief executive. It is important to note that his options for possible modes of involvement–or non-involvement– are not mutually exclusive. What seems most certain is that Duterte will be spending his time in Davao, as he had previously stated. He could choose to seek an elective post in 2025, what with key local positions being held by his family members. It could be recalled that in 2021, he filed a certificate of candidacy for senator, but eventually backed out. Prior to that, he was also reportedly contemplating on running for vice president, but this did not push through. This cleared the way for his daughter, eventual winning candidate Sara Duterte-Carpio, to seek the second highest position in the country. Duterte running for Davao mayor or congressman would not be surprising. As one of only four living former presidents, Duterte could play a major role in shaping not just public opinion but more importantly, public policy. Receiving high trust and approval ratings before his term ended, he is expected to enjoy widespread support still. His views on certain issues are expected to still merit close attention from his supporters. If he actually decides to retire from politics, Duterte could put up a foundation focused on fighting illegal drugs and promoting peace and order. The steadfastness he showed in his war on drugs from 2016 to 2022 is not expected to suddenly wane soon, but without authority over the police, he may have to take a different tack. With less than 100 days (as of writing) after his term ended, Duterte could still be warming up to his role as a former president. Whether he would eventually choose to stay active in political discourse or stay away from the public eye remains to be seen.

< Back MAYOR SARA DUTERTE-CARPIO & DAVAO CITY BY LAKAMBINI BAUTISTA WOMAN OF STEEL A toughie with the heart for service, Davao City’s first lady mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio continues her father’s legacy, proving that the “Crown Jewel of the South” deserves the global spotlight Feisty and “palaban” are terms easily associated with Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio. She’s not one to back down from any fight, and has a “don’t-mess with me attitude” especially on issues that are close to her heart, which include peace and order, the welfare of the poor, women, and children. If you are historically the only lady mayor (not to mention, the youngest!) in the largest and most populous city in Mindanao and taking over the reins of a strong-willed leader that is your father, President Rody Duterte, people expect nothing less from you. As Mayor Sara was busy attending to the urgent matters of the Marawi Crisis (with Davao City having been placed under MartiLaw), League asked people who work with her about her kind of leadership and governance, and how she is leading Davao towards progress. FEISTY AND FEARLESS To people who have only heard of her name, she was the gutsy mayor who punched a court sheriff over a demolition work back in 2011. But to people who know the story behind—such as Jefry Tupas, who was then a news reporter and now Davao City’s information officer, and the owner of the shanties that were demolished—Mayor Sara is the “Iron Lady” who vowed to defend the rights of her constituents. In Tupas’ news report on inquirer.net , Mayor Sara, a lawyer by profession, admitted she was angered by the sheriff’s insistence on serving the notice of eviction when she was only asking for a two-hour reprieve until the residents’ lawyers got a ruling from the Court of Appeals. Proving her capacity to mediate, the incident ended with the mayor eventually convincing the people to relocate. Fast forward to 2017, Inday Sara, as she prefers to be called by the people of Davao, is still the same unflinching mayor. “Mayor Sara is palaban,” quips City Legal Officer and Chief of Staff Atty. Raul Nadela, Jr. “She’s not meek at all. She speaks her mind, if she thinks this would help put forward an agenda. But if she thinks that doing so will just aggravate the situation, she would rather not speak about it.” Mayor Sara can appear intimidating to people meeting her for the first time, not because she puts on airs and graces, but because she’s pretty and intelligent. “Unknown to many, she is actually kind of shy but very approachable,” says Atty. Nadela. The lady mayor’s wisdom in public service, he says, comes from experience and maturity, as she has served one term as vice-mayor, and is now on her second term as mayor. “Sometimes, there’s a problem and we present possible solutions, and then she’ll give us an option that we never thought of. I get amazed by her insights,” he says. HEART FOR THE MASA One of the qualities that can be considered “Tatak Duterte” is the sincerity to serve—something that is clearly passed on from father to daughter. Their gauge to know if a project is worthy to spend money on: if the results can benefit the grassroots. “Mayor Sara wants everything done fast! She wants tangible results,” says Tupas.

< Back The Dynamism of Binalonan, Pangasinan After considering its limitations and building on its strengths as a convergence hub, Binalonan is transforming itself into a dynamic municipality, one that has built a niche economy as a university town under the leadership of Mayor Ramon V. Guico III. BY MAIELLE MONTAYRE PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROMEO PERALTA, JR. Marked as a crossroad for cultural and agricultural exchanges of Pangasinan, the Ilocos, and the Cordilleras, the town of Binalonan, a first-class municipality in the province of Pangasinan, has transformed from an uninhabited forested area to a lush agricultural community to a burgeoning rural town. Bordered by bustling municipalities and cities of eastern Pangasinan, Binalonan strives to make a name for itself. With growing infrastructures, developing services, and connecting roads and highways, the town is catching up to its vision of becoming a progressive university town. TAKING ROOT The current mayor of Binalonan, Ramon V. Guico III, answered the call to public servicewhen he ran for Vice Mayor in 2007. He was elected later as Mayor in 2010, a position he holds until now. “It’s my hometown,” he simply says. “I wanted to give back to my roots and prove that when you have a clear vision of what you want to do, you can achieve it.” With a doctorate degree in Public Management from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), he set about the task of further improving his hometown. Founded in November 10, 1834, Binalonan consists of 24 barangays spread over its 8,400-hectare land area. Its name is derived from the Ilokano term balon, in Tagalog baon, which means “packed lunch.” It is said that the workers of a Spanish land-owner would rest and have their lunch underneath the trees located at heart of the land where the municipality stands today. Binalonan is a term in Ilocano and Pangasinan signifying a place where people come to bring and eat their lunch. The town traces its roots to the Ilocano people who migrated due to the drastic effects of colonial policies involving taxes and to find greener pasture in the uncultivated lands of eastern Pangasinan. Since then, Binalonan has risen from a poor town to a promising agricultural municipality with rice crops as one of its main products. It continues to produce sugar cane, an ingredient used for basi (sugar cane wine), suka (vinegar), and muscovado (dark brown sugar), which are some of the town’s top products. It was in 1989 when the third-class municipality of Binalonan graduated into a firstclass municipality, owing to its rising income and population. “But I told myself that we should not stop with just being a first-class municipality,” Mayor Guico says. Dwarfed by the more progressive and populous City of Urdaneta and Municipality of Pozorrubio, with its high overseas remittances and high purchasing power, Binalonan fought to compete with her neighbors. “The challenge was how to make it more progressive, how to invite more establishments and such; because, before, there were only these mom-and-pop establishments, mga karinderya (small food stores), and anything you need you just buy from the market,” Mayor Guico says. Inspired by his travels locally and abroad, and armed with a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of the Philippines (UP), Mayor Guico dreamt of transforming Binalonan into a university town. Click here to read full article for free

< Back Courage to Change Second District of Rizal Representative Juan Fidel Nograles believes it is time for the youth to take over and challenge the status quo. BY HELEN HERNANE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA, JR Go big or go home. This best describes Congressman Juan Fidel Nograles’ campaign in the 2019 midterm elections. In his first foray into politics, the 32-year-old fearlessly challenged the Rodriguezes, a clan that had been in power in Rizal for two decades. His was a resounding victory: with a 70,000-vote winning margin, Nograles ushered in a new era in the history of his district. This is how the young politician wants to be remembered by his constituents. “I want to be remembered as someone who defeated a dynasty because of the people’s desire for change. They need someone to represent them in Congress, someone who can champion the rights of the marginalized, the poor, and the impoverished,” says Nograles. Fortunately, Nograles has the next three years—a total of nine years, if he will be given the chance—to prove himself as the champion the people of Rizal need. PRO-POOR As a lawyer providing pro bono legal services to the marginalized citizens of Rodriguez, Nograles has made his way into the hearts of many. With the help of his law students and fellow lawyers, he took on various cases, but paid special attention to those involving land grabbing, family disputes, and domestic violence. “My advocacy is legal aid. As a lawyer, it is one of our responsibilities to aid the marginalized, the impoverished. [We have] to assist them in legal proceedings because social justice dictates [that] those who have less in life should have more in law,” says the Harvard law graduate. After earning a Juris Doctor degree at the Ateneo de Manila University, Nograles went to Cambridge, Massachusetts to study in one of the most prestigious schools in the world— Harvard Law School. Nograles admits that his time in the Ivy League school was no walk in the park. For starters, aside from having to compete with other brilliant minds, he also had to pay a particularly hefty tuition fee. All seriousnes aside, Nograles joked that one also has to be “handsome” in order to get in. While it was difficult to get into the school, it was his time inside that made him realize that he wanted to enter politics. Instead of going back to being a full-time lawyer, Nograles decided that he wanted to use what he learned to ensure “good governance, anti-corruption, transparency, and accountability” in the local government of Rizal. When he returned to the Philippines after graduating in 2016, he started to serve the Province of Rizal as the assistant provincial administrator, a position he held until he filed his certificate of candidacy for this year’s elections. Prior to Harvard, Nograles worked in the Office of the President of the Philippines as an assistant secretary and was also a court attorney in the Supreme Court, under then Supreme Court Justice Martin Villarama Jr. His first-hand experience at the highest court of the land only deepened his trust in the Philippine legal system. “As a former Supreme Court lawyer, I have faith in the rule of law. Because I believe that no one should be above the law,” he quips. The law has a very particular place in the hearts of the Nograles family. Both of Fidel’s parents, George and Sol, are lawyers. Their namesake law firm, Nograles Law Firm, mostly focuses on labor law and litigation. Aside from his parents, his elder sister is also a lawyer. Surrounded by lawyers, Fidel felt that becoming one was the “natural career path” for him. He thought of becoming a doctor at first and took up BS Biology before shifting to Management Economics. As a lawyer, Nograles admits he is an idealist. “As an idealist and an advocate of the rule of law and human rights, I believe that we should do our part in society to protect human rights and to improve access to justice for the poor,” Fidel says. Aside from being a practicing lawyer, Nograles is also a law professor. For him, juggling all of his duties and responsibilities is difficult because “24 hours a day is not enough to fulfill different roles.” But time management makes it possible. As a professor, he always tells his students that “grades are not the only measure of your excellence in school because education is not limited to the four walls of the classroom.” Nograles always emphasizes that interacting with other people and building relationships are just as important as maintaining a grade. “At the end of the day, what you get on your report card or on your final exams, they’re not enough to define your character,” Nograles stresses. STILL WATER RUNS DEEP Upon meeting the young congressman, one could easily sense that beneath his quiet demeanor lies a deep sense of obligation to the people he serves. Despite answering in short sentences, his carefully chosen words relay his passion and conviction in giving the people what they deserve. “Seeing the poverty, the inequality and living conditions of the people here in the province is an inspiration because I have an obligation to uplift their quality of life,” he says. “I am responsible for almost 1 million people living in the 2nd District of Rizal and that, in itself, is a big motivation for me to do what is needed, to serve these people.” One of his biggest concerns is the size of the 2nd District of Rizal, which comprises the municipalities of Baras, Cardona, Jala-jala, Morong, Pililla, San Mateo, Teresa, Tanay, and Rodriguez (formerly Montalban). In terms of land area, it is the biggest legislative district in Rizal. Nograles confesses that during the campaign, traveling around the nine noncontiguous towns was a challenge since the district has mountains, islands, and rivers. With this in mind, one of his plans once he enters Congress is to divide the 2nd District for the towns to get “advanced access to government services and public funds.” Apart from resolving the other concerns that face his district, Nograles wishes to focus on education, health, and livelihood. “[I will] put my constituents at the forefront of everything and strive to respond to the needs of the community,” he assures. OF NUMBERS AND NAMES This year’s elections resulted in the end of many dynasties, and at the forefront of these battles were the likes of Fidel Nograles. While many people fixate on the budding politician’s age, Nograles is confident that not only is age just a number, but it could also be advantageous. For him, what young leaders can offer better than their older predecessors can be summarized in three words: fresh ideas and creativity. In other words, they bring about change that their former leaders could not provide enough of. Nograles also believes that change must come from within. “You must be the change you wish to see in the world,” he says, quoting his source of inspiration, Mahatma Gandhi. Apart from his age, another thing that caught the electorate’s attention is his last name. As a newcomer to the political arena, Fidel had to make a name for himself—one that isn’t preceded by reputation. Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Prospero Nograles is his uncle and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles is his cousin. “I always tell my constituents that I want to be voted not because of my name or who I am, but because of what I can do and how I can uplift the living conditions of the people living here in Rizal,” Fidel shares. Whether it is because of his name, his age, his advocacy, or some other reason, the people of the 2nd District of Rizal definitely paid attention to Fidel Nograles and have given him the chance to lead them. For this, Nograles is eternally grateful. “Makakaasa po kayo na hindi n’yo po sinayang ang inyong boto. Sapagkat, nandito na po ang pagbabago. Panahon na po para kabataan naman ang mamuno, kabataan naman ang mabigyan ng pagkakataon na maglingkod bilang inyong kinatawan dito po sa Rizal. Salamat po sa inyong tiwala at suporta, (Rest assured, you did not waste your vote [on me] because change is here. It is time for the youth to lead, to be given a chance to serve as your representative here in Rizal. Thank you for your trust and support,)” he says. The next three years will definitely not be easy for the first-time legislator. But if his astonishing win in his first run is a sign of things to come, then Congressman Fidel Nograles has a bright future ahead. After all, they say timing rarely favored those who were ready. Timing favors those who try.

< Back International Bazaar 2023 Brings the World to the Philippines BY EDWIN ALLAN C. DIAZ Switzerland’s premium chocolates, the Netherlands’ famous smoked sausages, Australia’s artisanal cheeses, Spain’s jamón, and Austria’s schnapps were just some of the finest products sold during the International Bazaar held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) last November 19, 2023. Products from 31 "Philippines' Best” exhibitors, imported and local goods, as well as merchandise from the 38 embassies and six participating consulates were on sale during the event, which drew approximately 6,000 visitors. An annual fundraiser of the International Bazaar Foundation (IBF), the proceeds went to scholarship grants for poor but deserving students; livelihood projects for distressed communities and victims of calamities; financial and in-kind assistance to homes for the elderly and abandoned children; assistance to foundations, medical institutions, and other nongovernmental organizations (NGOs); and care for persons with disability (PWDs), the homeless, and disadvantaged groups. IBF partnered with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the diplomatic and consular corps, and Spouses of the Heads of Mission (SHOM) Foundation for the bazaar, which is now in its 57th year. FIVE DECADES OF GIVING BACK Angela Valdes-Ramos, wife of then-DFA Secretary Narciso Ramos, initiated the International Bazaar in 1966. It was a special project of the ladies of DFA, the diplomatic and consular corps, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other government agencies including the private sector. This year’s theme is “Shop Global, Help Local.” It was a golden opportunity for diplomatic missions and SHOM to showcase their country’s products, network, and generate leads to reach local Philippine importers. SHOM Foundation is composed of the spouses of former ambassadors and permanent chargés d’affaires accredited to the country. Together, they learn more about the Philippines and its culture, attend special outings, speaking engagements, and sporting activities, and visit local tourist spots. It exists alongside the IBF based on cooperation, friendship, and understanding to ensure the IBF accomplishes their mission “[to] help change the lives of the marginalized sectors of society by generating charitable capital and providing services that contribute to the health and well-being of the communities we serve.” A BIGGER, BETTER BAZAAR One month before the International Bazaar, the IBF hosted a press conference, also at the PICC, to give a glimpse of the things to expect at the event and what it stands for. Argentina, Australia, Austria, Finland, India, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, Romania, Singapore, and Turkey set up a mini-exhibit for a sneak peek. “As we announce this 57th International Bazaar, we celebrate not just numbers: 42 participants from the Diplomatic and Consular Corps and 31 from our own ‘Philippines' Best' Exhibitors but also the stories, tastes, and craftsmanship that each booth will offer,” said IBF Overall Chairperson Pamela Luis Manalo, the wife of incumbent DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo. Other members of the IBF board of trustees were also present, such as President Betty Ang, Vice Chairperson and Consul Helen Ong, Treasurer Alice Guerrero, and IBF Executive Director Nora Salazar. SHOM Foundation Chairperson Arkadius Tracz, Media Representative Indri Akyol from Turkey, and other members of the 2023 Executive Committee also graced the press conference. “On a serious note, beyond the delightful shopping and cultural experiences, the essence of our endeavor goes deeper. ‘Shop Global, Help Local’ encapsulates our mission. It’s about making a difference. The funds we raise through this event empower us to touch lives, supporting abused women, homeless individuals, and marginalized communities. Offering them not just aid but hope,” Manalo added. A BEACON OF HOPE Long regarded as an annual tradition to usher in the holiday season, this year’s event was described by Taguig City Mayor and former IBF head Laarni Cayetano as “a beacon of hope and positive change,” a “wonderful initiative… embodying the true spirit of compassion and global citizenship.” For her part, IBF head Manalo underscored the importance of unity in diversity, and of coming together for a common cause.

< Back CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS KAPAMPANGAN WAY Many have tried—but failed!—to take the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines” title away from Pampanga. Its uniquely Pinoy grandeur and joyous spirit continue to inspire those who have witnessed and experienced it BY LESLIE ANNE MAHUSAY WITH MICHELLE DELA CRUZ PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY TOURISM OFFICE OF SAN FERNANDO Pampanga has undeniably preserved the Christmas feels. The dazzling and colorful Giant Lantern Festival (GLF) continues to make the province a top tourist destination during the holiday season, says Joel Mapiles, Pampanga’s Provincial Information Officer. According to history, as written in the City of San Fernando’s official website, the Christmas Lantern, or Parul Sampernandu in Kapampangan, can never be separated from the town that created it, the City of San Fernando. The San Fernando lantern industry progressed from the Giant Lantern Festival of San Fernando. The festival, which is held every December, finds its roots in Bacolor, where a much simpler activity was held. ‘Ligligan Parul’ (Lantern Competition) was said to have started in San Fernando in the year 1904. But some say that the “Ligligan Parul” did not happen immediately after the transfer and, in fact, began in 1908. The giant lanterns with dancing lights started in 1931, when electricity was established in the city. At that time, the lights were controlled by individual switches that were turned on and off following a selection of tunes. In the years that followed, more improvements were introduced to the giant lanterns, such as the replacement of papel de hapon with colored plastic. Instead of bamboo, the lantern makers weld together a steel frame, which is then lined with cardboard and foil, followed by another enormous task—placing about 5,000 light bulbs and wiring them together using hundreds of yards of electrical wires. Large steel barrels called rotors also replaced the hand-controlled switches to maneuver the lights. Strips of masking tape on the rotors establish the sequence of the blinking of the lights. Hairpins, attached to the end of the wires leading to each bulb, connect the lights to the rotor, which in turn, is connected to the source of electricity. Nowadays, contest participants can use up to 10,000 bulbs. All entries must measure 20 feet in height to qualify for the competition. Click here to read full article for free

< Back Barangay Bignay Holds Parol and Christmas Tree Making Contest Barangay Bignay, Valenzuela City under the leadership of Chairman Garcing Victoriano awarded the winners of their Parol and Christmas tree making contest last December 3, 2023 at West Covered Court Disiplina Village. Participants from different areas and schools within the barangay showcased their creativity by coming up with sturdy and colorful parols and Christmas trees using recycled materials. The winners were determined by Barangay Secretary Federico De Jesus, Barangay Canumay East former Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson Myra Catibog, and Barangay Punturin Kagawad Philip Faustino. Awarded as the overall champion, Cluster 6 received a certificate and Php 15,000. Pulong Maligaya was hailed as first runner-up, followed by Cluster 1 as the second runner-up, and Disiplina Village Bignay National High School as third runner-up. Bignay National High School and Amabelle Homes Phase 2 rounded out the list of winners, all of whom also received cash prizes. The contest was held not just to celebrate the yuletide season but also as a part of the barangay’s environmental awareness campaign. The contest entries are displayed at Barangay Bignay’s 3S Hall. Photos Courtesy of Barangay Bignay Facebook Page: https://www . facebook.com/BarangayBignayValenzuela/posts/

< Back Promoting PInoy Pinoy Pride Go Lokal! celebrates creativity of our local talent with newest collection of handmade goods Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez Go Lokal!, an initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), recently rolled out its newest collections done in collaboration with local crafters and designers. The project was launched in 2017 with the objective of helping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) penetrate the lucrative consumer market. “It’s difficult for MSMEs to enter the mainstream market (malls), as they have to pay a listing fee of P2-P3 million, or rent space (which is beyond their means). But with Go Lokal!, in cooperation with many of the retailers here in the country, DTI does its share in helping MSMEs gain free access to the mainstream market,” shares Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez. Go Lokal! offers an amazing opportunity to MSMEs, bringing local goods and linking entrepreneurs direct to consumers through a wider platform such as pop-up fairs, as well as longterm partnerships with government agencies and retail hubs. Recently, DTI was proud to share that Go Lokal!’s exclusive line of handmade souvenirs is now available at the DTI Store and Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, in addition to the more than 50 Go Lokal! stores across the country. For this season, Go Lokal! introduced its latest collection, which was done in collaboration with 16 crafters and designers from the Common Room, a known arts and crafts collective in Quezon City, and Team Manila. Inspired by the unique humor and wit of the Pinoy, the souvenir line includes fishball plush toys by Pop Junk Love, embroidered travelers’ patches by Fandom Feels, Philippine landmarks tattoos by Tattooic, Manila Traffic Survivor button pins by Ella Lama, and accessories with Philippine garden flowers by Life After Breakfast. Not your typical souvenirs, these pieces are eye-catching and creative, and undoubtedly Pinoy. In another partnership, Go Lokal! teamed up with Team Manila, a graphic design studio, for special edition t-shirts, which speak of the country’s weaving heritage. Titled Habi Hiraya (Weave Vision), the collection pays homage to the indigenous Filipino tribes by featuring a combination of intricately woven patterns from the Bagobo and Tinguian tribes, and leaf motifs called Uwes. Translated in Memphis design style with a modern Team Manila twist, a play of these elements was used to create a dynamic souvenir collection. Go Lokal! products are available at Kultura Makati, Rustan’s Makati, Robinson’s Place in Malate, Glorietta 2 of Ayala Malls, City Malls nationwide, Duty Free Philippines Fiesta Mall, and Enchanted Kingdom. Go Lokal! is also available online at: http://golokal.marketa.ph/and https://www.shopinas.com/go-lokal and website at golokal.dti.gov.ph