< Back GOVERNOR GWEN GARCIA BY RHIA GRANA WITH HELEN HERNANE Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia on taking the province of Cebu to higher ground by empowering the grassroots movement, building up tourism, and leading with no-nonsense politics.

< Back A Visionary on a Mission BY NEPHELINE LIM DACUNO INDONESIAN AMBASSADOR TO THE PHILIPPINES, HIS EXCELLENCY AGUS WIDJOJO, OFFERS INSIGHTS ON STRENGTHENING INDONESIA-PHILIPPINES BILATERAL RELATIONS, FOSTERING CULTURAL EXCHANGES, VISIONS ON MAINTAINING PEACE AND PROSPERITY, AND REPRESENTING ASEAN’S LARGEST ECONOMY IN HIS MISSION IN THE PHILIPPINES. While many see retirement as a time to enjoy the fruits of their labor, His Excellency Agus Widjojo, Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines, found it to be a launching pad for a new career. Transitioning from a distinguished military officer to a diplomat, Widjojo continues to serve his country in a new capacity. After over 30 years in the Indonesian Armed Forces, the former lieutenant general was appointed ambassador to the Philippines by President Joko Widodo in January 2022. It is common for distinguished military officers like Widjojo to transition into diplomacy. For Widjojo, a leading intellectual in the Indonesian military, serving as ambassador is a continuation of his duty to his country. END OF AN ERA Widjojo graduated from the Indonesian Armed Forces Academy in 1970, after which he worked as a rank and file military officer in the International Commission for Control and Supervision in Vietnam in 1973 and the Indonesian Battalion to the United Nations Emergency Force II in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt in 1976. Indonesia, at that time, was under an authoritarian and military-dominated regime under the leadership of President Suharto. At the height of his military career during Indonesia’s pivotal 1998 reforms, Widjojo reflected on the sweeping changes and crucial decisions following Suharto’s resignation on May 21, 1998. These transformations were essential to reshaping Indonesia into a nation capable of governing its people peacefully. “My career as an active duty military officer peaked around the time Indonesia reformed itself after President Suharto resigned. The resignation meant the end of the 1945 generation, meaning we had to make a decision as to what sort of political system we would put in place,” the diplomat shares. The Reformasi (Reformation) marked a pivotal shift from Indonesia’s militarydominated government, signifying a departure from the system established at the country’s independence. The founding fathers, starting from Indonesia’s first president, Soekarno, were instrumental in leading Indonesia to independence. The political framework underpinning the nation’s constitution was forged through the camaraderie and shared struggles of these leaders during the Indonesian War of Independence. ”The 1945 generation was unique because they [founding fathers] fought together in the struggle for independence [from the Dutch Empire]. There was a sort of comradeship in arms that, to my opinion, was the foundation in leading the country,” he notes. The administration underwent a comprehensive overhaul, transforming everything from authoritarian political system into democracy. Therefore the practice of government will follow the principles of democracy. This era of transformation, known as Reformasi, stands out in Widjojo’s career for its significant democratization and decentralization of power, particularly within the military. ASCENDING THE RANKS Widjojo reflects on his role in professionalizing Indonesia’s military, acknowledging his contribution to its transformation. Rising through the military ranks, he eventually became deputy speaker of the Indonesian National Assembly during the era of Dwifungsi or dual function, when the military not only handled defense and security but also played a significant role in sociopolitical affairs. His ascent through the military ranks, involvement in key government reforms, and adaptation to new political systems and responsibilities as deputy speaker all profoundly shaped Widjojo’s perspective on the geopolitical landscape of the AsiaPacific region, and by default, Indonesia’s relations with other nations in the region. “The higher you climb the military ladder, the wider the scope of your responsibilities become. At a certain point, you’ll not only see the domestic [affairs] of Indonesia from inside or outside the military, but also in the wider spectrum of geopolitics. I familiarized myself with dealing with geopolitical issues,” he shares. “I also took part in various military collaborations and cooperation between different countries; between Indonesia and Malaysia; between Indonesia and Singapore; between Indonesia and Australia,” he says. Widjojo’s career has spanned three dimensions: military, political, and diplomatic. Each transition brought unique challenges and valuable lessons, allowing him to gain comprehensive insights into Indonesian politics, governance, and international relations. “While the military is structured and follows a single command, politics involves diverse opinions and requires consensus-building through debates and conversations, which was a new experience for me,” he adds. Widjojo’s extensive experience in the military and politics made his shift to diplomacy part of a natural progression. Despite the challenges that came with each transition, he sees his ability to navigate these diverse roles and create peopleto-people connections as his greatest strengths. “In diplomacy, we face friends, allies, and adversaries. But that doesn’t mean that adversaries are in everything we face. There is, however, flexibility. If there are two opposing perspectives between allies and adversaries, international relations then becomes a meeting of the interests of several countries,” he stresses. Widjojo emphasizes that despite their differences, a common thread unites the three dimensions he mentioned: they all involve dealing with people. Understanding human nature and fostering effective peopleto-people communication are essential, serving as the foundation amidst varying national interests. “While each country and region has distinct national interests, they share a common vision: building peace and prosperity together,” he shares. CEMENTING STRENGTH IN ASEAN Widjojo attributes Indonesia’s current economic and political stability to its emergence as a promising business hub in Southeast Asia. Indonesia remains to be the largest economy in Southeast Asia, accounting for 40% of the region’s gross domestic product. The country has maintained consistent growth of about 5%, weathering global economic storms in the past decade. Indonesia’s middle class, Widjojo shares, fuels domestic consumption and creates a vibrant market for businesses, forming the backbone of the country’s economy. This socio-economic group is expected to reach a population of 120 million by 2030. “Indonesia sits on a treasure trove of natural resources. From minerals and oil to timber and agricultural products, this natural endowment attracts investment in extraction- and processing-related businesses,” he states. The Indonesian government is making significant investments in infrastructure, with spending increasing by 5.8% in 2022 to upgrade airports, roads, and ports, thereby enhancing its appeal to businesses. Widjojo notes that Indonesia is also actively engaged in regional and global trade agreements, leveraging its robust trade relations to expand market access for foreign investors. According to the World Bank’s Doing Business Index, Indonesia improved its ease of doing business ranking from 122nd in 2015 to 73rd in 2020, reflecting these efforts. Aside from a burgeoning middle class, Indonesia’s startup ecosystem is also rising, attracting both local and foreign venture capitals. Boasting rising global rankings in ease of doing business, a robust middle class, resilient trade relations with neighboring countries, substantial infrastructure investment, and abundant natural resources, Indonesia stands at the forefront of ASEAN’s strongest economies. A TOAST TO GOOD RELATIONSHIPS Last September 8, 2023, the Indonesian Embassy in Manila held a diplomatic reception at the Dusit Thani Hotel, Makati, to celebrate 78 years of Indonesia’s independence. The event drew over 300 guests from various Indonesian communities and diplomatic offices in the Philippines. Widjojo gave a welcoming speech and took part in the warm celebration of the successful bilateral relations between Indonesia and the Philippines. For over 70 years, the Philippines and Indonesia have enjoyed robust diplomatic relations, marked by active collaboration to enhance regional centrality, especially within the energy sector. Widjojo envisions a continued strengthening of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Indonesia, particularly in fostering cooperation and mutual growth. He highlights the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations, fostering a highly optimistic outlook for future collaboration and prosperity. “I believe that the future of Indonesia-Philippines bilateral relations holds immense potential for cooperation and mutual growth, fueled by strong historical ties, cultural similarities, and a shared strategic location in Southeast Asia,” he shares. On January 10, 2024, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and President Widodo convened at Malacañang Palace for a bilateral meeting, culminating in the signing of a memorandum of understanding for energy cooperation. This agreement reaffirms their pledge to support each other during critical supply shortages of energy resources like liquefied natural gas and coal. In addition to securing cooperation in energy security, Widodo expressed his appreciation for the Philippines in trusting Indonesian state-owned enterprises to contribute to the country’s infrastructure and accelerating the groundbreaking of the North-South Commuter Railway Project, an urban rail transit project connecting New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac to Calamba, Laguna. The project began construction in 2019 and is slated to be completed by 2029. Widjojo, as well as a select delegation from Indonesia, were present at the meeting. He notes that the visit is a culmination of 75 years of solid bilateral relations, and laid a stronger foundation for enhanced cooperation in the many years to come. He also emphasizes that the flourishing digital economies of the Philippines and Indonesia present significant opportunities for collaboration in e-commerce, financial technology, and digital infrastructure, which can drive mutual growth. Additionally, enhancing tourism and student exchange programs can strengthen cultural understanding and forge lasting personal connections between the two nations in the years to come. “The Philippines is an important economic trade partner. I can see that in the future, Indonesia and the Philippines, as active members of ASEAN that are committed to regional economic integration, will create opportunities for joint ventures, investment, and infrastructure projects across Southeast Asia,” the ambassador says. AT THE HELM OF ASEAN In 2023, Indonesia assumed the chairmanship of ASEAN, thus placing Widodo in a position to promote and enhance the wellbeing of member-countries and promote consensus-building within the region. A significant challenge during this tenure was the West Philippine Sea-South China Sea dispute, prompting the development of a code of conduct (COC). Queried about the negotiations for a legally binding COC in the South China Sea, Widjojo outlined the guidelines agreed upon by ASEAN nations and China on July 13, 2023. “In the West Philippine Sea issue, we lobbied for peaceful dispute resolution and the continuation of ASEAN centrality in matters like that. The COC is expected to reflect international norms and rules that are aligned with, and refers to, international conventions, including the UNCLOS of 1982," he shares. The 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) serves as a vital treaty safeguarding the conservation and utilization of natural and cultural resources, while also protecting the marine environment, including the sea, subsoil, seabed, and marine ecosystems. The COC seeks to address and manage incidents such as those in the West Philippine Sea-South China Sea region, aiming to play a pivotal role in preserving peace, security, and stability in the area. Widjojo acknowledges, however, the COC’s limitations during Indonesia’s ASEAN chairmanship. “We also acknowledge that the COC does not address and resolve the dispute over the title to territorial and maritime claims. It mainly serves as a guideline for accelerating the early conclusion of the issue, and making negotiations run faster,” he clarifies. As Indonesia’s ASEAN chairmanship transitioned to Laos in 2024, Widjojo hopes that key initiatives, including the COC and other agenda, will endure beyond Indonesia’s tenure. He highlights three critical agenda aimed at bolstering the region’s cohesion and growth: ASEAN Matters, Epicentrum of Growth, and the ASEAN IndoPacific Forum. The ASEAN Matters agenda focuses on strengthening ASEAN’s institutional capacity and effectiveness to address both current and future challenges, institutionalizing dialogue and human rights, and enhancing cooperation to combat human trafficking. The Epicentrum of Growth agenda emphasizes inclusive and sustainable economic development, aiming to fortify ASEAN’s health infrastructure, food and energy security, and financial stability. Lastly, the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum seeks to ensure ASEAN’s continued relevance to its people, the Indo-Pacific region, and the world by synergizing efforts with neighboring countries and special envoys from the UN and other nations. Widjojo’s vision underscores the importance of these initiatives in maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region. A PROUD PATRIOT AT HEART Asked about what interests him the most in his role as ambassador, Widjojo highlights the embassy’s participation in significant Philippine events, the promotion of Indonesia’s cultural diversity, and his deepening understanding of Philippine history, which he notes is less linear compared to Indonesia’s. He considers these aspects of his mission as vital elements of “soft diplomacy.” As a diplomat and proud Indonesian citizen, Widjojo consistently seeks opportunities to advocate for Indonesia to stakeholders in the Philippines. Whether through lectures, art, or cultural performances featuring traditional Indonesian instruments, songs, and dances at festivals across the Philippines, Widjojo strives to highlight Indonesia’s rich heritage. A few notable visits the Indonesian Embassy has made were to the UP Diliman Asia Culture Festival 2023 at the University of the Philippines Diliman, the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio, and the MassKara Festival in Bacolod. Widjojo notes that through these visits and cultural exchanges, paired with renowned Filipino hospitality, he deeply feels the connection between the Philippines and Indonesia. “The visits became avenues for cultural exchange in which we are able to identify a lot of similar things and differences in terms of language, cuisine, customs, traditions, and others,” he shares. “Understanding our similarities, we somehow feel Indonesians and Filipinos are connected. Knowing our differences breeds tolerance. This way, we build bridges of understanding and respect. Thereby, meaningful connections are made,” Widjojo ends.

< Back Driven By Purpose, Powered By Progress BY BIANCA MARAÑON MARKED BY INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY, PLARIDEL, BULACAN MAYOR JOCELL VISTAN’S UNIQUE PROJECTS ADDRESS A WIDE SCOPE OF HER CONSTITUENTS’ NEEDS AND SET THE FOUNDATION FOR LASTING CHANGE. PLARIDEL, DIRETSO SA PROGRESO! (PLARIDEL, HEADED STRAIGHT TOWARDS PROGRESS!) Among the many awards that Plaridel, Bulacan has received in 2024, one that best encapsulates the main thrust of its municipal government is the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) bestowed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government. This is given to local government units (LGUs) with outstanding performance in all ten governance areas ranging from “business-friendliness and competitiveness” to “environmental management.” The SGLG is also granted to LGUs that display excellence in leadership and public service. While attaining the SGLG even once is no small feat, Plaridel has received it eight times. It is for good reason that Plaridel Mayor Jocell R. Vistan was recognized as the National Outstanding Mayor of the Year at the 2024 Philippines Choice Awards. Vistan and her team have served Plaridel for many years, and have contributed to its steady growth over the past decade. At present, Vistan is on her third term as mayor, and she happily notes that some of Plaridel’s programs have served as the blueprint for those of other LGUs. A closer look at her years of service for the continued progress of Plaridel would reveal clear proof of this. After all, other LGUs may find practices that they can apply to their own settings, and the typical reader would likely be glad to know of the influence and effectiveness of Vistan’s programs. I SAW THIS AS AN EMBODIMENT OF THEIR TRUST, LIKE TRUST IN A MEMBER OF THEIR OWN FAMILY. THEY RUN TO THEIR ATE TO ASK FOR HELP. THEY COME TO ME NOT ONLY AS A PUBLIC SERVANT, BUT ALSO AS AN ATE WHO IS WILLING TO HELP THEM. A DAY IN THE LIFE Vistan wears many hats: wife, mother, daughter, and of course, mayor. Hers is a full day. After a few moments to herself upon rising at 5:30 in the morning, she attends to the many constituents who seek her help and advice. They come to her home, the doors of which have always been open to them, some with appointments and about 30 to 40 others without. “Every day is a challenge,” she notes. She realized she has become different things for different people according to their needs: doctor, lawyer, psychologist, teacher. It is not for nothing that her constituents call her ate (big sister). Plarideleños began using this affectionate nickname sometime in 2019, during the years Vistan didn’t hold office. Wondering how to address her instead of “Mayor Vistan,” they settled on “Ate Jocell.” Vistan is quite happy with this title. “I saw this as an embodiment of their trust, like trust in a member of their own family. They run to their big sister to ask for help. They come to me not only as a public servant but also as an ate who is willing to help them.” The rest of Vistan’s day continues after a very late lunch. She goes around some of the municipality’s 19 barangays to check on ongoing projects, to attend wakes, to grab a bite at her favorite food stall, or to simply listen to Plarideleños’ concerns. This allows her to be close to her constituents and hone her listening skills, but it also serves as a way for her to unwind—she calls this her “driving force” and “antidote to tiredness.” At six in the evening, Vistan is a mom and a wife again. She draws inspiration from her children, who are part of the next generation of Plarideleños for whom she strives to build a better Plaridel. She finds support in her husband, who helps her “debrief” and offers her his perspective and advice. While her day tends to end there, she is Mayor Vistan around the clock. Her team is accustomed to receiving messages from her late at night or early in the morning, the more relaxed hours in which inspiration tends to strike. FULL TO THE BRIM Interestingly, Vistan’s programs mirror her typical day— streamlined, compact, and effective. Much like the different roles she plays tend to blur at times, it is difficult to categorize her programs since they cover multiple areas at once. A good example is “One Tree, One KID (Kabataang Iskolar ni Del Pilar): Puno ng Pag-asa.” Along with financial assistance, college students are given the task of planting and tending to a fruit bearing tree: santol, atis, caimito, chico, and the like. From 300 scholars during the first year of the program, One Tree, One KID is supporting 2,800 students for the 2024-2025 school year and stewards a total of 10,000 trees as of this writing. Once the trees bear fruit, scholars share them with students at the daycare centers. This way, both college and daycare students learn about Filipino fruit-bearing trees. Also, the fruits shared by the college students are tended to by the daycare students, who nurture them into the seedlings that will be in the care of future batches of scholars. This single project covers literacy, care for the environment, and love for Philippine flora all at once. Intertwined with One Tree, One KID is Bote Mo, Edukasyon Ko (Your Bottle, My Education). PET bottles containing clean, empty sachets of toothpaste, shampoo, coffee, etc. are collected from the scholars and turned into eco-bricks with the assistance of Green Antz Builders. These eco-bricks can then be used to build the municipality’s daycare centers, one example being the Barangay Dampol Day Care Center. Parents can send their children to the daycare centers for free, on the condition that they too participate in the Bote Mo, Edukasyon Ko initiative. With one program, Plaridel can promote waste reduction, education, literacy, and community involvement at the same time. Scholarships, tree-planting programs, and recycling campaigns are typical projects of an LGU. Through constant innovation, Vistan and her team have added new dimensions to these initiatives and structured them in a sustainable manner. In the mayor's words, each project is “something that will not only have an impact on Plarideleños, but on the next generation.” Such programs are lasting not only because they are sustainable, but also because they cultivate positive attitudes and habits in citizens, involving all Plarideleños in Vistan’s effort to build an ever-better Plaridel. AN OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE One may reasonably assume that Vistan inherited her aptitude for public service from her parents, both former mayors of Plaridel. However, Vistan was working toward a career in the corporate world. Becoming a public servant was not within her horizons. A merit scholar at Ateneo de Manila University, she took up Management Engineering and started working for Colgate-Palmolive as a management trainee after graduation. Her father, the late Jaime J. Vistan, asked her to take over the family transport company because he intended to run for office. At first, she tried to dissuade her father from running, his rather quiet personality leading her to think that he may not be suited to a life in politics. In terms of his habits and dispositions, though, he seemed to be a good fit. “He acted on all the problems of the town and found solutions for them,” she says. In the end, Vistan agreed to oversee the business and her father was elected mayor. “He told me he just wanted to help his countrymen.” Witnessing her parents’ terms as mayor, however, had quite an unexpected effect on Vistan. “I told myself, this is not for me,” she recalls. She had other dreams, like starting a family, pursuing further studies, and taking up law. Initially, she was sure that the responsibilities of a mayor and the demands of the people were beyond her. Her mother’s words, however, made her reconsider. Former Mayor Anastacia R. Vistan, known to Plarideleños as Mayor Tessie, asked her daughter: “There is an opportunity for you to serve. Would you like to serve?” A career in public service was far from a matter of course for Vistan. She knew it would require a lot of sacrifice, and there would often be more to lose than to gain in such a position. As she pondered the matter, she realized that this was a chance for her to make all her ideas come to life. She could not only see changes but to be the changes she had always envisioned. “I realized that not everybody is given an opportunity to serve… I thought that if I serve others, there’s so much that I can do for the town,” she reveals. SIPAG, SINOP, SUWERTE Vistan grew up hearing this constant refrain from her parents: sipag, sinop, suwerte (hard work, frugality, luck). They taught these values to their children in the context of business, but Vistan would recall this reminder and embody it during her years as mayor of Plaridel. Firstly, sipag: “Hard work, persistence. Be an early riser. Do everything in time and at the right time,” the mayor stresses. One of Vistan’s first goals as mayor was to improve services through information technology, by computerizing and updating systems. This facilitated the work and extended the reach of the different offices of the LGU and ensured that the demands of constituents could be met efficiently. Vistan fostered this same spirit of hard work among Plarideleños as well. Previously mentioned projects like One Tree, One KID and Bote Mo, Edukasyon Ko have supported countless students throughout their education. In the area of entrepreneurship, Plarideleños are guaranteed much support as well. Budding business owners can take out small loans to help them start, and such aid is also accompanied by livelihood training by the Public Employment Services Office. Thanks to practices such as the above, Plaridel was recognized by the Department of Trade and Industry as one of the most competitive and most improved LGUs in 2019. That year, Plaridel also ranked first in the area of Economic Dynamism, one of the five pillars of competitiveness measured in the Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index. Second, sinop: “You shouldn’t just earn a lot of money, but you should spend it wisely, too,” Vistan emphasizes. Investing in land is not an easy task for a municipal government, but Vistan took on this challenge in order to make Plaridel’s infrastructure projects possible. After noticing that some students of Plaridel needed to cross a bridge and go to another town to go to high school, it became one of the mayor’s goals to put up a school. From 160 students in 10 classrooms borrowed from an elementary school, Banga High School now has 2,000 students and the most classrooms in Plaridel. Also worth noting is Plaridel’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Emergency Response (DRRER) program. Plaridel is one of the first municipalities in its area to have an evacuation center, which was even used as an isolation facility during the pandemic. Most of the procurement for the barangays is directed to both hard and soft projects for disaster preparedness, like acquiring rescue vehicles, improving the emergency warning system, and the regular training and assessment of DRRER teams. Third, suwerte: “If there’s an opportunity, you grab it, and you make the most of it,” the mayor underscores. Plaridel is about a half-hour’s drive away from Metro Manila via the North Luzon Expressway. This, along with more space, less traffic, and lower tax brackets, has made the town appealing to investors. There is a growing presence of logistics, manufacturing, and warehousing companies, whose sales teams and operations centers are in Plaridel. Recognizing Bulacan’s, and especially Plaridel’s, potential as “the gateway to the north,” Ayala Land, Inc. announced the Crossroads project in 2022. It will be a commercial and lifestyle district, the first of its kind in Bulacan, and Vistan is excited about the opportunities it will open up. It will definitely be a reason for many Plarideleños to return to their town, incidentally the theme of the free concert held in December 2024: “Coming Home.” Rooted in the traditional Salubong Festival on December 29, Vistan invited Orange and Lemons, Leona, and other local artists to this year-end celebration. She hoped to inspire the youth to pursue music (as some members of the bands are from Plaridel as well), draw attention to the Salubong Festival, and encourage Plarideleños to come home to Plaridel. BUILDING THE PLARIDEL OF THE FUTURE Something Vistan learned from her father is to always look to the future: “You do not stop at Point A when you have reached Point A. You look forward to Point B,” she says. The local chief executive is always thinking about, working for, and looking forward to “what’s next.” This is clearly seen in her projects and programs, each one clearly designed to last, leaving behind a legacy that will outlast her term as mayor. Speaking of legacy, Vistan hopes she will be remembered for her efforts to bring people together and build community. She knows that all her dreams for Plaridel are possible, as long as all Plarideleños love their town and work as hard for it as she does. “Sama-sama po tayo: ako, ikaw, tayong lahat, para sa isang Plaridel na diretso sa progreso. (Let’s work together: me, you, all of us, for a Plaridel headed straight towards progress.) Be with me and come home to Plaridel,” she says. I REALIZED THAT NOT EVERYBODY IS GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE… I THOUGHT THAT IF I SERVE OTHERS, THERE’S SO MUCH THAT I CAN DO FOR THE TOWN.

< Back Filipino Christmas Attractions and Activities BY CAMILLE CABAL The Philippines is known for having the longest Christmas celebration in the world. The moment the calendar page turns to September 1, Filipinos already regard it as the start of the Christmas season. You’ll know and feel it because Christmas trees suddenly pop out all over the place and Christmas lights start to brighten the streets. Eventually, it became a silent competition for local government units, malls, and even universities to install the biggest and brightest Christmas trees and other displays, and to hold the grandest parades. All of these offer the public a great chance to enjoy the season with their families and friends, all for free! Here’s a peek at what different local government units, malls, and universities prepared for this year’s Christmas celebration. AYALA TRIANGLE’S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Ayala Triangle’s Festival of Lights in Makati City has become one of Filipinos’ must-visits during the Christmas season because of the enchanting experience it offers. Enjoy “Christmas Nights with Countless Lights” as more attractions have been added on the attraction’s 15th year. Aside from the Kaleidoscope of sight, sound, and light where the Christmas and laser lights dance to the beat, the Wish Upon a Light and Liter of Light exhibits will give you more reasons to come back this year. Wish Upon a Light is a digital wishing pond that features an interactive LED screen where people can write their wishes, which are then projected onto the garden wall. Liter of Light on the other hand is an art installation by Leeroy New, featuring “Elemento.” From 6 pm to 10 pm, you can witness the lights and sounds show every 30 minutes. The Festival of Lights will be open until January 14, 2024. ARANETA CITY’S 100-FOOT CHRISTMAS TREE Dubbed as the City of Firsts, Araneta City has made sure to light a better Christmas tree every year. For this year, Araneta City installed a 100- foot Christmas tree for “Your Home for Christmas” celebration. It is embellished with 20,000 pieces of white and gold glossy Christmas balls, 250 pieces of red and gold stars, 3,000 pine garlands, 300 pieces of sputniks and snowflakes and illuminated by 7,500 warm white LED bulbs. After taking photos of and with the Christmas tree, you may enjoy a variety of food items at the nearby bazaar. UPTOWN MALL’S FESTIVE FILIPINO CHRISTMAS Filipinos never run out of ideas to make the Christmas celebration not just more lively but more relevant. And if we’re talking about “Filipino Christmas” this year, nothing beats the Christmas tree in Uptown Mall that is adorned with ornaments crafted by weavers from different parts of the country. The materials used in crafting the embellishments—which took all of five months to finish—were sourced from indigenous communities in Lanao del Sur, Marawi, Aklan, Iloilo, Albay, and La Union. According to the mall’s general manager, the unique Christmas tree is meant to “pay tribute to local Filipino craftsmanship and talent.” Uptown Mall is located in Taguig City, walking distance from other malls and bazaars that you and your family may enjoy as well. SM AURA’S ECO-FRIENDLY CHRISTMAS TREE A Filipino Christmas is like no other and for SM Malls, their 65th year is an opportunity to express gratitude to every Filipino by showcasing eco-friendly, Filipino-themed Christmas decor in SM Aura. Over the years, SM Supermalls have filled our Christmas with joy and excitement as they adorn each of their malls with Christmas decor of different themes. But in SM Aura, they made sure to use eco-friendly materials to reflect ILAW AT LIWANAG ng Paskong Filipino. A giant capiz lantern brightens a 33-foot Christmas tree, both of which were made from locally sourced sustainable materials such as rattan, raffia, abaca, buri, and bamboo. Aside from being a treat to mall goers, the Filipino-themed decoration is meant to “give back to the Filipino people.” BAYAMBANG’S GHIBLI-INSPIRED CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Can’t afford to go to Japan this Christmas? The local government of Bayambang brought Japan to Pangasinan as it transformed the public plaza into the Enchating World of Ghibli. The village features the setting and characters from the popular anime’ creations of Hayao Miyazaki. It includes the “Spirited Away,” “My Neighbor Totoro,” “Ponyo,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” “Princess Mononoke,” “Secret World of Arietty,” and “The Cat Returns.” The Christmas village is open to Bayambang residents and visitors for free from 4 pm to 11 pm everyday. TAGUM CITY AND THE TALLEST CHRISTMAS TREE IN THE PHILIPPINES Have you ever wondered where you could find the tallest Christmas tree in the country? In Tagum City, Davao Del Norte stands the record holder for the tallest Christmas tree, a distinction it has held since 2017. On November 24 this year, over 20,000 people witnessed the lighting of the 198-foot Christmas tree in the city hall complex. The Christmas tree is surrounded with ribbonlike strands of light that run down the bottom. Lights in the shape of starfish, dolphin, sea turtle, octopus, crab, and other sea creatures are scattered as ornaments. PAG-IILAW AT UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES This year, the University of the Philippines Diliman decorated the famous Oblation with yet another creation by artist Toym Imao Jr. The bicycle-themed art installation, called “Tatsulokuyan,” is a visual delight, made even more attractive when lit at night. It literally served as the center of attraction as UP Diliman officially marked the start of the Christmas season in the campus last December 1. The year-end celebration for UP with the theme “Panibagong Lakas” celebrates the role and contribution of the university in the past three challenging years. The celebration will culminate with a lantern parade at the Academic Oval on December 20. PASKUHAN AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS “Let there be light.” Thus posted the University of Santo Tomas on their Facebook page as the university officially kicked off Paskuhan 2023: Witnessing the Joy of Christmas through the lighting of Christmas lights and decor in the campus followed by a concert gala. As in the past, the Christmas museum, Belen exhibit, and various Christmas parties continue to draw in crowds. A new addition this year is the Christmas Pop-up Village where students, faculty, and alumni can purchase UST and non-UST brands. Paskuhan 2023 will end with the most awaited Paskuhan concert on December 21. SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY LANTERN PARADE Saint Louis University (SLU) made the night magical as they illuminated the streets with colorful and creative lanterns during Baguio City’s official kick off of the Christmas season on December 1. After the ceremonial Christmas tree lighting of the city, the SLU marching band led the 15th SLU Lantern Parade where each school carried and waved their unusual and creative lanterns of varying shapes, sizes, and colors. Among the notable ones were those that looked like a church, a figure of a priest, papal crown, dragonfly, and even a farmer, all of which showed thoughtful conceptualization and incorporation of the theme, Journeying Towards Catholic Integral Formation and Global Excellence. The magical night was capped with a beautiful fireworks display.

< Back The Heart of a Batangueña Lipa City Councilor Nicole Ronquillo’s love for Lipa is a driving force for change in the city. BY ROBIN LUCAS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA JR. HMUA BY GHIL SAYO & JOE MARIE SALVADOR STYLING & OUTFITS BY ARLAN DIONALDO ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us.

Merlion artist Carren Eistrup shares her love for singing and being discovered by the production company. < Back Carren Eistrup Merlion artist Carren Eistrup shares her love for singing and being discovered by the production company. MERLION EVENTS PRODUCTION INC. Eat Bulaga’s newest host is a talented teen from Cebu who is just beginning to develop her abilities. Carren Eistrup, who others say resembles American pop star Miley Cyrus in appearance, also possesses much talent. Carren, half-Danish and half-Filipino, was discovered for her singing ability. She has participated in singing competitions since the age of seven. “Pinag-workshop po ako ni mommy nung 5 years old, kaya sabi po niya since may potential po ako, pwede daw po ako mag-sali ng competitions. (My mother enrolled me in singing workshops since I was 5 because she recognized my great potential as a singer; which is also why she allowed me to join competitions),” recalls the most recent grand prize winner of Eat Bulaga’s Bida Next. Things moved much faster than Carren had anticipated. It didn’t take her long before Merlion, her producer, discovered her in Cebu and helped her in getting her big break. “We are grateful to Merlion for making the effort to visit me and my mother in Cebu, and persuading us to sign a contract with them,” Carren says of how she got started with Merlion. Her first project with Merlion was joining Bida Next; “Bida Next” is Eat Bulaga’s talent search to find the “next big thing” to join the show as one of the co-hosts. Carren never expected to win the grand prize because she says “the other competitors were so good.” She was only 13 when she competed and won. Eat Bulaga chose Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb” as her final performance piece; that somehow bolstered her image as the “little Miley Cyrus.” She is delighted that the hosts and talents of Eat Bulaga have warmly welcomed her as their newest “Dabarkads.” She claims that being invited to the room reserved for hosts only and welcomed to eat with them is proof of her status as an official member of the team. She told the LEAGUE that Ryza, one of the Dabarkads, is her closest friend because they are always paired up to appeal to the Gen Z audience. Carren is only 14 years old, but she is so confident and at ease in front of the camera when she hosts and sings. Carren admits that she is not confident in speaking or hosting, especially if she is given on-the-spot spiels, because she is not comfortable speaking Tagalog since she was born and raised in Cebu. “Even reading Tagalog words causes me to rattle at times. I don’t know how to pronounce or syllable the words correctly. But I ask the writers to brief me and allow me to read the spiels first so that I can make my ad-libs,” Carren shares. Carren does not wish to confine her career to singing alone. She desires to become an actress, particularly in television series. She hopes tosomeday play leading actress roles, but others claim that her appearance is more suited to that of a mean girl, or “kontrabida,” which she does not object to. “Minsan, mas sumisikat yung kontrabida (Villains are sometimes more popular),” quips Carren. She also hopes to have endorsements for food, skincare, and clothing brands. When asked of her goal in the next five years, Carren says, “I want to be known as more than just an artist with a pretty face; I want people to know about my talent. I also hope to see myself on billboards and advertisements.” Carren is still a student, but she opts to take her classes online to accommodate her busy schedule, especially with the daily work at Eat Bulaga. This is just the beginning of Carren’s rise to stardom, and she knows she could not do it without her mother’s support, who has been by her side ever since. She is also grateful to Merlion, for believing in her potential and talent; and to her supporters, who have been with her from the beginning. She encourages all young ladies who aspire to be artists to never give up because there will always be a time for them. She claims that there are always reasons why things happen, “The Lord is giving us the opportunity to shine. Never give up on your dreams. Be committed and determined to what you are doing.

< Back Where Heart Meets Hustle in Service BY NEPHELINE LIM DACUNO BONGABONG, ORIENTAL MINDORO MAYOR ELEGIO MALALUAN LEADS THE MUNICIPALITY WITH HEART AND HUSTLE, PROVING THAT REAL LEADERSHIP ISN’T JUST ABOUT POLICIES BUT ABOUT PEOPLE. WITH HIS HEARTSPO AGENDA, HE IS BUILDING A STRONGER, SMARTER, AND MORE CONNECTED COMMUNITY, ONE BEAT AT A TIME. For Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro Mayor Elegio “Elgin” Malaluan, leadership is deeply personal. “The most important thing about being mayor is the ability to put yourself in the shoes of the people you serve,” he says. Malaluan’s understanding of his constituents’ struggles comes from lived experience. Growing up in a large family with limited means, he learned resilience at an early age. He recalls days when even basic necessities were hard to come by, yet those hardships shaped his worldview, strengthened his faith, and instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility. “As a child, I experienced poverty firsthand. Sacrifice taught me the value of perseverance and compassion,” he shares. Malaluan grew up in a large family of eleven siblings, the tenth child of a hardworking farmer and a small store owner. Now, as he leads Bongabong, Malaluan carries those lessons with him. He listens, he understands, and he acts, not just as a mayor, but as someone who has walked the same path as many of his constituents. His leadership is not just about policies; it is about people, their struggles, and their hopes for a better future. A DIFFERENT PATH Malaluan did not step into public service until much later in life. Initially, he set his sights on a career in optometry, earning his degree from Centro Escolar University—a path that earned him the nickname “Mayor Doc Elgin” among his constituents. For two years, he worked as an eye doctor, but the financial strain of establishing his own private practice quickly clouded his vision for the future. “Wala akong sapat na puhunan para makapagtayo ng sarili kong clinic (I didn’t have the means to put up my own private clinic),” he recalls. Seeking better opportunities, Malaluan took a leap of faith and landed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he worked as a liaison officer for a construction company. His street smarts and business acumen helped him build a strong network, connections that would later pave the way for his own construction business when he returned to the Philippines. However, his time in Saudi Arabia was cut short by the Gulf War. “I did all I could to earn a living. While working my regular job, I also sold water and sandwiches because many shops had closed during the war. I also sold stamps to other overseas Filipino workers like me since many post offices were closed. The conflict forced me to return home, but I didn’t come back empty-handed,” he states. His journey abroad may have ended earlier than expected, but it equipped him with resilience, resourcefulness, and the drive to carve out a new path, one that would eventually lead him to public service. “I earned nearly Usd 200 every day; I made sure not to waste a single minute earning as much as I can and helping fellow Filipinos when I was in the Middle East,” he adds. Following his return to the Philippines, Malaluan used both his earnings and experiences abroad to establish his own construction firm. Settling back in his hometown of Bongabong, he later married his childhood neighbor, Minerva King, with whom he would raise three children. Family life came naturally to Malaluan. Just as he devoted himself to his business ventures, he remained steadfast in his commitment to his family. That same sense of dedication would eventually lead him to public service. “If you ask me why I pursued public service after years in business, it’s really because I wanted to give back to my community,” he shares. “But I made sure my children finished college first before I pursued my own interest in becoming a local chief executive.” True to his word, Malaluan ensured that his children—Rachel, John Michael, and Maria Roselyn— completed their education before he stepped into politics. All three graduated with distinction from the University of the Philippines Diliman and the University of Santo Tomas, a testament to the same perseverance and commitment that shaped their father’s own journey. ESTABLISHING HEARTSPO When Malaluan entered the race for his first mayoral term, he found himself up against well-entrenched figures in Bongabong’s political scene. Among the most prominent was a Filipino composer and former councilor seen as a strong contender in the 2016 local elections. On paper, Malaluan appeared to be the underdog, but the results told a different story: voters placed their faith in his vision for leadership marked by efficiency, fairness, and equity. “My opponents had the advantage; they already held positions in Bongabong,” he reflects. “I was stepping into the political arena for the first time, introducing myself to the people, and making every move count. I had to prove that I was not just a new face, but a leader they could trust.” Before stepping into public office, Malaluan had already built a strong rapport with Bongabong’s senior citizens. For two years, he made it a point to remember their birthdays, personally extending well wishes and small financial tokens as a gesture of appreciation. Once elected as mayor, he formalized this initiative, ensuring that all residents aged 60 and above received financial aid with the amount increasing as they aged. This initiative laid the groundwork for Malaluan’s HEARTSPO program, an integrated governance framework focused on Health; Housing; Education; Agriculture; Roads and Infrastructure; Social Services; and Peace and Order. Each pillar addressed a critical need within the municipality, shaping policies and projects aimed at long-term development. Malaluan emphasizes that the foundation of any successful program lies in humility. As a public servant, he believes that staying humble is essential to continuously improving initiatives and ensuring their long-term sustainability. “True leadership begins with humility,” he affirms. Under Malaluan’s leadership, the town’s rural hospital expanded its capacity, adding more facilities and medical personnel. The number of doctors doubled from two to four, and four new ambulances were procured to improve emergency response. His administration also established a 50-bed isolation facility, ensuring the town was better equipped for health crises. Additionally, all barangays gained access to a stable supply of clean water, while waste management was significantly improved. His administration cleared over 3,000 dump truckloads of accumulated waste, a backlog spanning two decades. Recognizing the need for safe and stable housing, Malaluan spearheaded a 10-hectare National Housing Authority project, providing homes for government employees and families displaced by disasters. In the education sector, his administration established three Department of Education (DepEd)-accredited schools catering to indigenous peoples communities, along with two new elementary schools and a vocational training center. His investment in education aimed to create more opportunities for local youth, equipping them with skills to secure employment and improve their livelihoods. With a large portion of Bongabong’s economy relying on agriculture, Malaluan provided farmers with free seedlings, fertilizers, and farming equipment. Training programs on organic farming were also introduced to promote sustainable agricultural practices, an initiative that Malaluan is deeply passionate about. He, together with organic farming advocate Nelson Gabutero, has reigned in efforts to maintain Bongabong’s title as the Center of Organic Farming in Oriental Mindoro. Meanwhile, the mayor’s commitment to transparency and economic development led to a significant boost in tax revenue, which increased from Php30 million in 2016 to Php50 million under his administration. He also launched a public information page to enhance government transparency and developed three new eco-tourism sites to attract visitors and stimulate local business growth. Infrastructure development was another key priority, with 70 percent of roads across 36 barangays concreted, greatly improving transportation and connectivity. His administration also constructed new legislative and executive buildings and secured essential heavy machinery, including dump trucks, a backhoe, a loader, and a fire truck. On the social welfare front, Malaluan expanded support for vulnerable groups, offering cash incentives for senior citizens, Php5,000 in burial assistance, f inancial aid for persons with disabilities, medical support for indigenous peoples, and livelihood programs for beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Moreover, Malaluan played a vital role in strengthening Bongabong’s peace and security efforts. His administration facilitated the voluntary surrender of 23 individuals involved in insurgent activities during his two terms. Additionally, Special Action Force and K9 Explosive Ordnance Disposal training programs were implemented to enhance local law enforcement capabilities. To address drug-related concerns, he launched the Drug User Surrenderees Arugain program, an initiative inspired by national anti-drug campaigns, to rehabilitate 300 individuals. This program was a collaborative effort between the local government, the Department of Health, and the DepEd, providing a structured path toward recovery and reintegration into society. Maintaining peace and order in Bongabong wasn’t just about law enforcement for Malaluan—it also meant fostering discipline and civic responsibility among residents. A firm advocate for cleanliness, he implemented strict regulations to keep the town pristine. “Anyone caught littering faces fines starting at Php500,” he explains. But beyond penalties, he introduced an incentive-based approach to accountability. “We offer cash rewards to those who report violators. This way, people don’t just follow the rules; they take an active role in ensuring their neighbors do too. It’s about building a culture of shared responsibility.” Under Malaluan’s leadership, Bongabong has earned recognition for its exemplary governance. As he ends his term, he does so with pride and hope—his son’s recent mayoral win in the local elections marks a new chapter in continuing the legacy of good governance in the municipality. Malaluan’s leadership continued to yield remarkable progress well into his second term. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck the Philippines, his administration’s swift and strategic response earned praise both within and beyond Bongabong. Understanding the urgency of responding to the crisis, Malaluan personally donated nearly Php1 million to support the town’s 36 barangays. On top of government-issued relief packages, the local government distributed one cavan of rice per family and allocated an additional Php2.6 million to supplement gaps in the Social Amelioration Program budget. Bongabong also became one of the first local government units to implement an Intelligent Thermometry Disinfection system, enhancing public health safety through advanced temperature monitoring and sanitation measures. MOVING FORWARD Beyond crisis management, Malaluan’s tenure saw Bongabong’s steady rise in economic and developmental rankings. By 2019, the municipality secured a spot in the Top 50 Most Improved Cities and Municipalities in the Department of Trade and Industry’s Competitive Index, placing 45th overall, the only locality in Mindoro to make the prestigious list. “Bongabong has experienced remarkable growth under my leadership, and it’s something the people themselves can see and attest to,” Malaluan reflects. “My vision is to elevate Bongabong to cityhood. That’s why I have no current plans to seek a higher office. My focus remains here, ensuring that our progress continues.” Malaluan’s commitment to the town’s future extends to the next generation. His son, John Michael K. Malaluan, now serves as a municipal councilor and is seen as a promising leader in his own right. Malaluan is hopeful that his son will continue the legacy he has built. “John Michael has fresh ideas and the capability to contribute even more than I ever could,” he shares. “I’ve entrusted him with my programs to sustain and improve, ensuring that Bongabong’s progress doesn’t stop with me.” Malaluan emphasizes that every achievement and milestone in Bongabong is the result of a collective effort between his administration and the community. “We see the cooperation and the fruits of all our labor,” he reflects. Under Malaluan’s leadership, Bongabong has earned recognition for its exemplary governance. As he ends his term, he does so with pride and hope—his son’s recent mayoral win in the local elections marks a new chapter in continuing the legacy of good governance in the municipality. “I want my constituents to know how far we’ve come. Our programs are making an impact, and Bongabong has the potential to grow even bigger and better,” he says. “I am deeply grateful for the trust and cooperation of our people, and together, we will continue striving for progress.” BONGABONG HAS EXPERIENCED REMARKABLE GROWTH UNDER MY LEADERSHIP, AND IT’S SOMETHING THE PEOPLE THEMSELVES CAN SEE AND ATTEST TO,” MALALUAN REFLECTS. “MY VISION IS TO ELEVATE BONGABONG TO CITYHOOD. THAT’S WHY I HAVE NO CURRENT PLANS TO SEEK A HIGHER OFFICE. MY FOCUS REMAINS HERE, ENSURING THAT OUR PROGRESS CONTINUES.

< Back Leveling the Playing Field BY NEPHELINE LIM DACUNO THE GAMES AND AMUSEMENTS BOARD (GAB) IS THE FEARLESS WATCHDOG OF PHILIPPINE SPORTS, PROTECTING ATHLETES AND CRUSHING ILLEGAL GAMBLING. LED BY CHAIRMAN FRANCISCO J. RIVERA, IT'S DRIVING A BOLD, TECH-POWERED MISSION TO CLEAN UP THE GAME AND LEVEL THE FIELD. While most are familiar with the Games and Amusements Board’s (GAB) primary responsibilities, which include issuing licenses and monitoring compliance among professional athletes, its mission extends far beyond these visible duties. According to GAB Chairman Francisco J. Rivera, the Agency plays a crucial role in f ighting illegal sports betting and gambling activities intertwined with professional sports and amusement games in the Philippines. As the sole government authority overseeing the regulation of professional sports nationwide, the GAB is tasked with a broad spectrum of responsibilities. These include enforcing laws, supervising game officials and sports personnel, and most importantly, safeguarding the integrity of athletic competitions from corruption and illegal influences. Rivera, a seasoned lawyer with extensive experience in private legal practice, emphasizes that the Agency’s work demands the same rigorous investigative discipline he cultivated in the courtroom. He explains that one very important discipline lawyers must possess is the ability to get to the bottom of things. Rivera states, “We investigate and gather all the facts, and it is only when we feel that the facts are sufficient to support the conclusion that we make a decision. This is an integral discipline in a regulating body like the GAB.” It’s a philosophy that has shaped the Agency’s modern identity, one that goes beyond issuing permits and monitoring sports events. In Rivera’s view, the real work often happens far from the spotlight: in investigations, inter-agency coordination, and the integral pursuit of due diligence. It’s the kind of vigilance the public seldom sees but benefits from daily. GAB’s evolution reflects this silent dedication. Formed in 1951 by Executive Order No. 392, the Agency was originally tasked with consolidating fragmented powers held by local mayors, boxing and wrestling commissioners, and racing authorities. Over the decades, as Philippine sports grew in scope and complexity, so did GAB’s mandate. The addition of professional basketball in the mid-1970s marked a turning point, followed by the creation of the Anti-Illegal Gambling Unit (AIGU) in 1992, an inter-agency task force aimed at dismantling underground betting networks. By 1993, the gency had taken on additional responsibilities, including the regulation of international cockfight derbies. Today, it oversees a diverse range of disciplines: from Muay Thai and mixed martial arts to billiards, bowling, tennis, and women’s boxing. Each represents a community of athletes, officials, and fans, many unaware of the rigorous safeguards in place to protect their sports from corruption. The GAB may not always command headlines, but its role in shaping Philippine sports is undeniable. Under Rivera’s leadership, it remains committed to a vision of fair play not just in rules, but in principle. In a game where careers are on the line, fair play and public trust are the real wins. RULES BEFORE RISKS Despite the parallels between his former life as a litigator and his current role as Head of a regulatory agency, Rivera is the first to note a crucial difference: time is of the essence at the GAB. “Professional athletes have a shelf life,” he says bluntly. Careers can be cut short by injury or decline, and every game, every season, is a make or-break moment. Delays in resolving disputes or licensing issues don’t just inconvenience players, they can derail entire careers. That urgency has shaped the way the GAB handles cases. Unlike in the courtroom, where proceedings can drag on for months or even years, the board works under a different clock. “We don’t have the luxury of time,” Rivera explains. “We must act swiftly—but always fairly.” One advantage is that the facts in GAB cases are often clear-cut and immediately available. While legal nuance remains, the disputes are typically grounded in events or actions that have already been documented. “It’s rarely a mystery,” Rivera notes. “Most facts are already known or easily established. It’s just a matter of due diligence—and applying it quickly.” Still, he is quick to clarify that speed doesn’t mean cutting corners. Beneath the surface of these seemingly straightforward cases are layers of complexity that demand attention and care. But with a seasoned legal mind at the helm and a system built for responsiveness, the GAB has found a balance: swift resolution without compromising justice. In some cases, the GAB doesn’t work alone. Rivera notes that the Agency has established agreements and close coordination with law enforcement bodies, most notably the Philippine National Police (PNP), for cases that require further investigation and enforcement. Under this agreement, the PNP may be called upon to help uphold GAB regulations, especially when potential illegal activities are suspected within the leagues and organizations under the board’s jurisdiction. “When we bring in the PNP or have them attached to GAB operations, it signals that there may be something serious happening within our regulated entities,” Rivera explains. “It’s a big deal. Because if they have to intercede, then it becomes a matter of national interest.” Although cases of this scale are uncommon, GAB is fully prepared to handle them when necessary to protect the integrity of professional sports. Still, Rivera stresses that prevention remains the priority. To reduce the need for external intervention, the GAB requires all sanctioned sports leagues to develop and submit their own internal rules and anti-game f ixing policies for review. “This is to encourage our leagues to be self-regulating,” Rivera says. “If they can police themselves effectively, then the chances of government or law enforcement needing to step in are significantly reduced.” THE ONLINE FRONTLINE Aligned with its partnerships with law enforcement agencies, the GAB also operates its own Anti-Illegal Gambling Unit (AIGU), a specialized body created under the directive of the Office of the President. “Our AIGU is tasked with investigating illegal gambling activities within the entities we regulate,” says Rivera. While the lines between the mandates of GAB and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) are sometimes blurred in the public eye, Rivera clarifies that the GAB’s jurisdiction through the AIGU can, in fact, extend to certain franchises under PAGCOR if there are signs of illicit activities. “In such cases, the AIGU functions like a law enforcement arm, investigating unauthorized gambling operations within PAGCOR-regulated franchises,” he explains. The AIGU’s scope also includes vigilant surveillance of online and offshore gambling sites, particularly those involved in illegal sports betting. Rivera shares that once unlicensed or suspicious websites are flagged by the AIGU, they are reported to the National Telecommunications Commission, which then alerts telecommunications companies to probe these sites and, when warranted, block or shut them down. “We’ve done this regularly,” Rivera says. “Since I assumed my post at the board, our Unit has identified and reported roughly 100 such sites. That number is only an estimate, of course, as online gambling is a fast-moving, ever-evolving space.” The GAB continues to face complex and unconventional applications from entities seeking licenses to operate within the Philippines. One such case involved a horse racing platform that proposed accepting bets from Filipino users on races conducted overseas. “It was a novel concept,” recalls Rivera. “The platform planned to livestream races held in countries like India while accepting wagers locally. They came to us seeking authority to operate.” The proposal, however, raised several regulatory red f lags. Rivera explains that after a thorough review and internal research, the GAB ultimately denied the application. “Horse racing in the Philippines is under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Racing Commission (PRC), and our mandate as a government agency does not extend beyond national borders. Since the races in question would be held abroad, the PRC would have no way to supervise or enforce standards on those events.” Surprisingly, the applicant did not challenge the GAB’s ruling. “We expected them to appeal, but they didn’t,” Rivera notes. “Cases like this reveal just how intricate, and at times murky, the landscape of online gaming and betting has become. It’s a constant effort to stay one step ahead of unregulated or borderline operations.” PROTECTING THE ATHLETES Rivera wears his passion for sports, particularly boxing, on his sleeve. Step into his office and you're immediately greeted by a display of boxing memorabilia, a testament to his lifelong admiration for the sport. At first glance, one might even assume he once stepped into the ring himself. While he didn’t pursue boxing professionally, Rivera says his deep-rooted love for athletics played a pivotal role in his shift from private legal practice to public service. “I’ve always believed you’re at your best when you love what you’re doing and you’re good at it,” he says. “When the opportunity came, I took it. And to this day, I still strive to be good at it.” That genuine love for athletics gives Rivera a unique perspective in his role. It also allows him to connect with the professional athletes under GAB’s jurisdiction, individuals whose careers often hinge on the permits and licenses the Agency issues. “We hold all athletes to the same standard,” Rivera explains. “Whether you’re a basketball player or a boxer, you must conduct yourself in a way that upholds the integrity of your sport.” For Rivera, one of the toughest parts of the job is protecting athletes, not just from outside threats, but often from their own decisions. “Let’s say a boxer decides to compete abroad without securing the proper permits or licenses from the GAB,” he says. “That’s already a violation. Some athletes go ahead and do it anyway, and I find it hard to understand why. Getting permission isn’t difficult.” The problem, he adds, is that many are lured by the prestige of international competition or the promise of bigger paydays. “We don’t stop athletes from competing overseas,” Rivera clarifies. “But we do require them to follow certain protocols, such as rest periods, to safeguard their health. Some ignore that, and when they return, they’re injured or worse. Some can’t even renew their licenses. Their careers are effectively over.” Rivera also emphasizes that athletes who violate the rules and regulations of the GAB and their respective leagues are subject to fair but firm penalties. One high-profile case currently on public record involves a professional basketball player who was apprehended in September 2024 following an altercation that escalated into a shooting. “The case is still pending, but in situations as serious as this, where law enforcement must intervene, the maximum administrative penalty we can impose is the confiscation of the athlete’s license,” Rivera explained. “If found guilty in court, the athlete will no longer be eligible to renew his professional license.” However, Rivera clarified that because the case is still under judicial review and being handled by the proper authorities, the option to reapply for a license remains open, but only in the event of an acquittal. “We revoked his license while the criminal proceedings are ongoing. In many ways, it’s like temporarily cutting off someone’s livelihood, and I recognize that,” Rivera said. “But at the same time, we have a mandate to uphold the integrity of professional sports. Rules are rules. If he is acquitted, we are open to reassessing the case.” At the heart of GAB’s regulatory framework, Rivera says, is a commitment to athlete welfare. “What we do is ultimately for their protection. We’re not here to hold them back, we’re here to make sure they have a future.” SHAPING LEGACIES In line with the GAB’s mission to modernize and enhance its services, Rivera underscores how innovation and adaptability have become essential to their mandate. “At GAB, we try to leverage technology to streamline operations and improve our services,” he says. “Just a month ago, we launched our online license application and processing system. While we’re still fine-tuning the platform, athletes can now conveniently renew licenses and access GAB-related documents anytime, anywhere.” This digital shift has already proven to be a major improvement, especially in handling medical records and annual license renewals. By reducing red tape and wait times, GAB is helping athletes spend less time on bureaucracy and more time in training and competing. “It’s all about efficiency. And with licenses only valid for a year, the system saves precious hours that matter most to our professionals.” As Esports continues to rise on the global stage, Rivera also points out that GAB has extended its standards and protocols to this growing industry. “The Philippines is now recognized as a breeding ground for top-tier Esports athletes,” he says. “We’re making sure they’re equipped with the same support and structure we offer our traditional athletes, especially when they compete abroad.” GAB is currently pursuing ISO accreditation, a bold move aimed at aligning its operations with world-class standards. “It’s not easy,” Rivera admits. “Standardizing process, retraining staff, rerouting paperwork into a digital system, it’s a massive undertaking. But we’re halfway there. And one of our biggest challenges remains creating tighter, smarter protocols for online activity surveillance.” On the ground, Rivera sees no shortage of potential among Filipino athletes. “In terms of skill, we’re on par with international talent,” he says. "But if there’s a gap, it’s stamina, especially among our boxers. It’s not just about building muscle anymore. We need to invest in sports science, recovery, nutrition, and endurance training.” This is why the GAB has started bringing in dieticians and endurance experts to elevate training programs. “We want every Filipino athlete, regardless of discipline and hometown, to have access to support that helps them compete at the highest level,” he explains. But for Rivera, this isn’t just about policy or programs, it’s personal. “If I can help our athletes by ensuring their licenses are processed on time and by removing unnecessary roadblocks, then I’ve done my job,” he says. “We’re here to clear the path, not clutter it. Our goal is simple: let our athletes focus on becoming the best in the world.” And with that, he adds one final note that speaks volumes: “If GAB can level the field and be the springboard that launches Filipino world champions, then we’re not just regulating sports, we’re shaping legacies.”

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< 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.