< Back SEN. CYNTHIA VILLAR Sustainable Communities Building Eco-friendly and Sustainable Communities Senator Cynthia Villar urges LGUs and government agencies: ‘Everyone must be involved!’ BY CYNTHIA U. SANTIAGO PHOTOS BY ED L. SANTIAGO Senator Cynthia Villar, chair of the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, graced the Bulong Pulungan at the height of the Boracay issue, which sparked when President Rodrigo Duterte announced on March 6 that he would declare a state of calamity in Boracay. He also ordered the closure of the resort island for 60 days based on recommendations by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). It may be recalled that local governments in the area, who were supposed to develop and manage the holiday island, have been blamed for not properly protecting Boracay from environmental degradation. Establishments not complying with the country’s environment protection laws are said to be transforming the country’s top tourist destination, famous for its powder-like white sand beach, into what the President called a “cesspool.” At the Bulong Pulungan, Senator Villar said that she and some senators visited Boracay in preparation for the Senate hearing on the issue. During their visit, she observed two major problems in the island: some business establishments have no connectioin to sewer lines and so their wastes are drained into the sea; and some establishments have put up buildings beyond their property line, and even on wetlands. Senator Villar pointed out that wetlands—land areas saturated with water—have an important role in environment protection, because they serve as catch basins to prevent flooding in Boracay. “Tanggal lahat. All establishments put up on wetlands will have to be removed,” Senator Villar said. She called upon the local government units to cooperate with the national government’s effort to implement laws to protect the environment. 10 questions One law, Republic Act (RA) 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, passed in 2001, mandates the establishment of a National Solid Waste Management Commission and Solid Management Board in each local government unit, to be represented by public officials in their ex-officio capacity, and the private sector. The law says LGUs must divert at least 25% of all solid wastes from waste disposal facilities “through reuse, recycling, and composting activities.” The law further mandates LGUs to establish Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in each barangay or cluster of barangays designed to receive, sort, process, and store compostable and recyclable materials efficiently. Apparently, Boracay is now in such a dire situation because the LGUs have not efficiently implemented the law. “It is so easy to follow the law,” Senator Villar pointed out. “You can connect your establishment to the sewer line in just a week, or even just a day. We just have to have the will to implement the law.” NO ONE IS ABOVE T HE LAW Senator Villar also clarified the issue about her family’s business interests in Boracay—Vista Land, which owns Boracay Sands Hotel, and investments in Costa de la Vista, a residential condominium. Earlier, she had told media that she was not involved in the management of those properties. She said she had made sure that they are following the laws, lest she be embarrassed when she begins probe of the issue. She reiterated that what the President had said about the total closure of Boracay was just a warning. “Sabi lang niya ’yon para sumunod lahat,” she said, explaining that without the President’s warning, it would be difficult to make everyone toe the line. Senator Villar added that her committee recommends closure only of establishments not complying with the law. “Total shutdown of Boracay is like punishing those who are following the laws,” she added. Not to mention, depriving the country’s top tourist attraction of a hefty income during the summer, the peak season of tourism on the island. EVERYONE MUST BE INVOLVED The LGUs have a key role, not only in implementing the laws, but getting everyone to share in building environment-friendly communities. For example, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is mandated to develop markets for items produced out of the recycled wastes. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) can train the jobless so they can work in the recycling factories. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through its Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) Program, can provide monetary benefits for those who will work in the factories. The senator also shared her own initiative through the Villar Social Institute for Poverty Alleviation and Governance (SIPAG), which has tapped the government agencies to help in transforming collected plastic wastes into school chairs. The Foundation has built a recycling plant in Las Piñas City, longtime bailiwick of the Villar family. The recycling plant can produce one chair from 24 kilos of plastic waste—such as sachets and those used to wrap items bought in wet markets. The plant can produce a total of 1,000 armchairs per month. “We have asked LGUs to establish such recycling plants in their areas,” Senator Villar said. The plant costs P5 to P8 million to build, which the senator pointed out, is a good investment. Aside from being a measure to protect the environment, the plant serves as an instrument for alleviating poverty as it provides jobs for the poor who are hired as factory workers. "Senator Cynthia Villar observed two major problems in Boracay: some business establishments are not connected to sewer lines and so their wastes are drained into the sea; and some establishments have put up buildings beyond their property line, and even on wetlands." THE BASECO EXPERIENCE As part of her environment advocacy, Senator Villar has led the cleanup of Baseco, a marginalized community at the port section of Tondo, Manila. She said some 5,000 out of 10,000 families or an estimated population of 60,000, have no toilets. So, they inevitably dispose of their waste into the Manila Bay. MAKING POVERTY HISTORY It may be an elusive, if not totally impossible dream, but making poverty history is one reason Senator Villar chose to lead one the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, which covers all matters regarding food production, food security, agro-business, education, technical services, agricultural support prices, and fisheries aquatic resources. “Majority of our poor are farmers,” Senator Villar pointed out. “So if you are after poverty reduction, you do it in agriculture.” She said the average income of a farmer is P4,500 per month, way below the prescribed minimum wage of P14,250. “Kailangan, pakitain pa sila. Increase their income,” she said. She laments the perception that farming is not only backbreaking but also far from being lucrative. Thus, children of farmers are not motivated to pursue it. She adds that there may come a time when there will no longer be farmers—or farms—because it seems it is better to use the fields for other more profitable businesses. The senator said, however, that contrary to common belief, food security does not depend on corporate-run farms. “It’s the small farms that feed the world,” she pointed out. “So, we are changing the mindset of the young, so they will see farming as a desirable occupation.” A program, which presents great promise for farmers, is farm tourism. As mandated by Republic Act 10816, it aims to maximize the benefits that can be derived from agriculture and tourism. The law touches both the Committees of Environment and Agriculture headed by Senator Villar as it seeks to promote environmentfriendly, efficient, and sustainable farm practices—to provide alternative recreation facilities and farm tourism activities for families, students, and other clientele, as well as promote health and wellness with high-quality farm-produced food. The law prescribes activities carried out on farms that will allow visitors to enjoy a farming or fishing experience, through education, recreation, or leisure. In the same way as protecting the environment, just about everyone is involved in developing farm tourism. The law mandates the creation of the Farm Tourism Board composed of the Tourism Secretary as chair, and the Agriculture Secretary as vice chair. Members include the Trade Secretary, presidents of national organizations involved in farm tourism— education institutions, federation of farmer coops, and tour operators’ association. The law prescribes government linkages with corporations and instrumentalities providing financing programs to provide lending incentives for the development of farm tourism camps and activities. Indeed, not one person, not just one agency or institution can get the job done. “Everyone must be involved,” Senator Villar reiterated. And definitely, the local government units have a key role in making the dream come true.

< Back Bridging Businesses Beyond Borders BY NEPHELINE LIM DACUNO I n 2023, Hong Kong emerged as the Philippines' sixth largest trading partner, with the total merchandise trade between the two regions reaching approximately USD10.85 billion. This is primarily because of stronger trade relationships fostered by a Filipino foreign trade service officer stationed in the territory. But beyond the obvious, what exactly does a foreign trade service officer do daily? Much of Commercial Vice Consul Attorney Roberto B. Mabalot Jr.'s work at the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Hong Kong (PTIC-HK) involves bridging businesses beyond borders. Despite being based in Hong Kong, his efforts are dedicated to serving Filipinos and Philippine businesses. “We’re the representative office of the Department of Trade and Industry. Our mandate is to assist foreign investors who would like to invest in the Philippines. In my given jurisdiction are Hong Kong and Macau, but the PTIC also has offices in Mainland China and globally. My team handles foreign investors as they figure out if they want to expand their businesses in the Philippines,” Mabalot explains. In addition to engaging with foreign investors, Mabalot plays a crucial role in helping Philippine exporters expand their reach beyond domestic markets. A significant aspect of his work involves rigorously assessing the legitimacy and credibility of client companies. “On any given day, you’d expect me to be in the office at 9:00 am, then we’d be having either one or two meetings in the morning and another set in the afternoon. As much as possible, I try to physically meet with possible investors to verify the validity or the veracity of their companies,” he notes. When PTIC reopened its regional office in Hong Kong at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous foreign businesses were eager to explore opportunities in the Philippines, attracted by potential incentives. Despite the global challenges brought by the pandemic, Mabalot was undeterred and immediately set to work, facilitating these burgeoning business interests. “The pandemic brought out easier and more efficient communication with foreign investors and Filipino suppliers. We could easily set up online meetings with both the Hong Kong office and the home office in the Philippines. I’d have meetings on a national level or with our possible partners," he reveals. Mabalot describes his day as a vice consul and commercial attaché as busy. “In any given jurisdiction, I do the finance, the administrative work, the marketing, basically everything expected of an office. That’s what we do,” he says. Because the PTIC-HK team juggles numerous tasks daily, Mabalot notes the high expectations among team members. "We're all expected to be multi-talented," he explains. "In essence, we must be capable of addressing various facets required of an office." I ENTERED THE FOREIGN TRADE SERVICE BECAUSE THEN, I CAN HELP FILIPINOS ON A MACRO LEVEL. I THINK ANY TIME IS THE BEST TIME TO HELP, IN OUR OWN SMALL WAYS, THE PHILIPPINE GOVERNMENT IN MAKING THE LIVES OF FILIPINO CITIZENS BETTER. DEGREES UP HIS SLEEVES Before being stationed in Hong Kong, Mabalot built a robust legal career in the Philippines. He graduated from Saint Louis University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2006 and a Bachelor of Laws in 2011. Following two years of invaluable experience working in the law office started by his father, he started his own law firm, The Law Firm of Domogan, Chan, and Mabalot. Mabalot’s pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop there, however. After earning a Master of Laws from San Beda College, he also obtained a Graduate Diploma in English and Hong Kong Law from the Manchester Metropolitan University which was offered in collaboration with Hong Kong University School of Professional and Continuing Education in 2022. His distinguished background highlights his deep expertise in law. Many clients have viewed his legal acumen as a significant asset in navigating potential investment ventures in the Philippines and beyond. “Now, as both a lawyer and foreign trade service officer, I provide investors with a greater sense of security when discussing the legalities of doing business in the Philippines. I advise them on how to optimize their operations in the country, especially within a framework as unique as Philippine law,” Mabalot says. TURNING LOSS INTO A LASTING LEGACY The true inspiration behind Mabalot’s pursuit of foreign trade service stems from the tragic loss of his sister, who passed away when he was 20 years old. She was in the final year of the INTARMED (Integrated Liberal Arts and Medicine) program at the University of the Philippines Manila before her untimely passing. Mabalot deeply regrets that she didn’t get to complete her medical studies, knowing she could have positively impacted many lives. He sees his career in law and foreign trade service as a continuation of her legacy, ensuring her memory lives on through every successful deal he facilitates. “I’ve always been so sure that had she been able to finish her medical studies, she would have been able to help a lot of people. So, I feel like there is a certain part of her that I want to continue, which I think I’m able to do by doing this type of job. [At the very least] I get to help people, although doing so as a foreign trade service officer is different from being a doctor,” he laments. Serving as a foreign trade service officer provides Mabalot with a profound sense of purpose, driving him to assist and uplift others. As a practicing lawyer in the Philippines, he has already made a significant impact, aiding countless individuals in various legal proceedings. However, his role at PTICHK has amplified his commitment to improving the lives of Filipino citizens. ”I have been so blessed. After passing the bar examinations and starting my own law firm with some of my partners, I was already able to help a lot of people. This makes me see my purpose in life, but there came a point in my life where I wanted to help more individuals,” Mabalot stresses. “I entered the foreign trade service because then, I can help Filipinos on a macro level. I think any time is the best time to help, in our own small ways, the Philippine government in making the lives of Filipino citizens better.” LAUNCHING FILIPINO BUSINESSES ABROAD In his role as commercial attaché, Mabalot serves as the vital link between foreign importers and buyers, facilitating the exchange of goods and services. A significant aspect of his work involves marketing Filipino brands to potential foreign investors and buyers who may be unfamiliar with the capabilities of these local companies. A noteworthy example of this effort was showcased during the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai last November 2023. During the fair, the DTI through PTIC-HK and the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong, showcased Filipino beverages to the global market, hoping to create business opportunities and partnerships. Five notable local beer, wine, and snack brands were chosen to represent the Philippines: Liwayway Holdings Company Limited, San Miguel Brewery, Philippine Craft Distillers Inc., Sagada Cellar Door, and Engkanto Brewery. The event drew over 7,000 attendees from 49 countries, marking a significant turnout. Mabalot deemed it a resounding. The delegates from Hong Kong were particularly impressed with the Philippine booth, paying attention to the local brands’ unique craft-making and packaging. Mabalot noted that attendees were surprised to know that San Miguel, which has been supplying beer products to Hong Kong for many years, was in fact, a Filipino brand. ”For the longest time, they assumed San Miguel was a Hong Kong brand. When I explained that it’s Filipino, it was an eye-opener for them,” he reveals. A few standout moments included presentations by Engkanto Brewery and Philippine Craft Distillers Inc. Engkanto Brewery showcased their craft beers, notably the Engkanto Ube Beer, celebrated for its distinctive fusion of ube, a yam variety endemic to the Philippines, with malt and hops. The packaging, which features eye-catching visuals, was also well-received. Philippine Craft Distillers Inc. introduced its LAKAN Heritage Liquors line, highlighting lambanog (distilled palm liquor) as its flagship product. Attendees lauded LAKAN for its exceptional transformation of distilled 100 percent pure coconut nectar into premium liquor, which is a process that makes the product unlike anything these foreigners have tried before. “Lambanog is not rum, not whiskey, not anything else. It’s very distinct, original, and unique to the Philippines. It intrigues them and makes them wonder why they haven’t heard of this product before,” Mabalot adds. Mabalot observed that elucidating the unique Filipino products and processes proved enlightening for foreign importers and buyers, paving the way for these local brands to access international markets. EXTENDING A HELPING HAND When it comes to bringing foreign investments to the Philippines, the PTIC-HK facilitates and liaises between the Hong Kong-based or foreign companies and Philippine companies or government agencies or instrumentalities. A few ways they do this are by connecting these regional offices to local government units or investment promotion agencies in the Philippines, as well as assisting them in expediting company registrations with the Securities and Exchange Commission. A notable example is Alibaba Cloud, the artificial intelligence and cloud computing arm of Chinese technology giant Alibaba Group. In June 2023, Alibaba Cloud announced a USD1 billion investment to support one million digital talents, developers, and technology startups across the Asia-Pacific region. As part of this initiative, plans for a data center in the Philippines are well underway, aiming to bolster the nation's digital infrastructure and innovation landscape. Since entering the Philippine market in 2019, Alibaba Cloud has maintained a strong presence, with PTICHK consistently liaising with the company’s office in the Philippines to provide support and assistance as needed. Another company Mabalot assists is HGC Global Communications Limited (HGC), a Hong Kong-based telecom and broadband service provider. For decades, HGC has been leasing its optical fibers to Philippine telecommunications companies, playing a crucial role in enhancing the country's connectivity infrastructure. PTIC-HK assists the company in issues that they encounter while expanding their business in Metro Manila. When asked about the challenges PTIC-HK faces in attracting foreign investments to the Philippines, Mabalot highlighted a significant issue: many foreign and local investors are unaware of the agency's existence and the valuable support it offers. Raising awareness about PTIC-HK's services remains a key priority. “Many people are unfamiliar with the role and services of PTICs located around the world. It's unfortunate when businesses venture abroad without seeking our assistance, missing out on valuable resources such as firsthand information about legal processes, connections with key individuals in the PTIC's jurisdiction, and access to the right networks and markets. On the other hand, numerous foreign companies could have expedited expansion in the Philippines by consulting with us. I believe it's crucial to engage with these foreign businesses and help them optimize their operations in the Philippines,” he says. Another challenge is limited manpower. Mabalot acknowledges that, despite the PTIC-HK team’s efficiency in managing their workload, their size pales in comparison to the foreign trade service arms of neighboring Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia and Thailand. Increasing manpower would enable PTIC-HK to handle inquiries more swiftly, engage potential investors more proactively, and broaden the dissemination of information about their support services, ultimately enhancing their capacity to serve the business community. “I’m blessed to have one staff member. Although other offices have more, we’ve achieved a lot despite our constraints. A key solution to our challenges is better information dissemination—not just to citizens, but also to public officials—about our mandate and the support we can provide,” he says. ADVOCATING FOR INCLUSION The DTI has made remarkable strides since the reopening of its Hong Kong office in 2020. Against the backdrop of the conclusion of Hong Kong’s Belt and Road Summit in September 2023, Mabalot underscores the burgeoning business prospects awaiting Chinese investors in the Philippines. He emphasizes that concerted government backing, including both fiscal and nonfiscal incentives, will not only streamline business operations but also catalyze reforms aimed at fostering a more businessfriendly environment for foreign investments to flourish. In addition to the successful participation in the summit, Mabalot spoke about DTI’s plans to establish a Joint Economic Committee (JEC) with Hong Kong. The Philippines has had JECs with other nations such as France and Germany, and the vice consul claims that creating one with Hong Kong would further strengthen trade relations with the special administrative region. “The Joint Economic Committee with Hong Kong will encompass several facets of business, allowing for the exchange of best practices. Engaging in such an agreement with Hong Kong will prioritize bilateral trade over multilateral arrangements. We [DTI] have already expressed commitment and interest in making this agreement a reality,” he says. There has also been a concerted effort to advocate for Hong Kong’s inclusion in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a landmark free trade agreement that was formally launched in 2012. RCEP encompasses 10 ASEAN member states along with China, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. The agreement aims to reduce tariffs and red tape, establish unified rules of origin, and enhance the facilitation of international supply chains, among other benefits. Hong Kong is not yet a member of the RCEP, but its accession would pave the way for fruitful trade negotiations and significantly streamline the process of conducting business, particularly in areas such as intellectual property (IP). BEING INVOLVED WITH THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY As a Filipino stationed abroad, it’s not hard to imagine a Filipino meeting with his kababayans (compatriots) to get a sense of home away from home. "When I arrived in Hong Kong, Filipino products were not being sold in the big supermarkets in Hong Kong, but supermarkets like Wellcome and Market Place tried selling Filipino products sometime in October 2023. Sadly, from 13 Market Place and 50 Wellcome locations, the Filipino products can only be found in a handful today. On the part of Filipinos in Hong Kong, we reminded them to patronize the Filipino products and share to their foreign bosses and foreign friends the Filipino products since these supermarkets are still businesses, and they would only sell Filipino products if there is actual demand coming from the Hong Kong market." The PTIC-HK is also championing projects to showcase Filipino creatives to foreign investors. Notably, in the recently concluded 2024 International Culture, Tourism, and Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition, creatives from the Cordillera Administrative Region were showcased, exhibiting Filipinomade artworks, weaving, and fashion accessories. "As much as possible, we [PTIC-HK] would like the Hong Kong market to know that Filipinos have a lot more to offer. On the other hand, we want to empower overseas Filipino workers, or overseas Filipino investors [as we'd like to call them], to become business owners." Last year, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines and the Intellectual Property Department of Hong Kong signed an agreement to foster cooperation in IP creation, awareness, security, trading, and utilization. This partnership aims to enhance the trademark protection of Filipino goods and services, while also facilitating the exchange of best practices and innovations between Hong Kong and the Philippines. For a foreign trade service officer like Mabalot, the substantial presence of Filipino businesses in Hong Kong represents a unified effort to elevate more Filipino enterprises— and potentially Filipino creatives—onto the international limelight. MOVING FORWARD AND BEYOND Mabalot observes that Hong Kong consistently ranks among the top ten trading partners of the Philippines. While the top trade relations are with mainland China, the United States, and Japan, exports to Hong Kong have steadily remained within the top ten. “You will be quite surprised that a lot of our exports from the Philippines to Hong Kong include chips, storage, and electronics. We at PTIC-HK, however, want to push for more agricultural products and Filipino professionals, specifically our engineers and information technology technicians, to reach Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area which comprises Hong Kong, Macau, and Guangdong Province,” he reveals. Mabalot also stresses again the importance of information dissemination to achieve resilient trade relations. He shares the many avenues that Filipinos, including himself, can capitalize on in order for foreigners to learn more about the Philippines and what it can offer. ”Based on my experience here in Hong Kong and Macau, a lot of people really don’t know much about the Philippines, considering the flight is only an hour and 45 minutes long,” he says. A few ideas he shared were video commercials about Filipino products with Cantonese and English translations, using social media platforms and tapping influencers in Hong Kong to use Filipino products in their content. Mabalot shares that they will do as much as they can to spread awareness about the Philippines, even with the constraints they deal with. “We have to at least start somewhere. I’m hopeful that in the next 10 or 15 years, foreigners will know more about Filipinos, our talents, and our potential. Even a five percent to ten percent change in their familiarity with the Philippines will be more than enough,” he shares. A HEART TO SERVE With a distinguished legal career, a decorated background, and significant contributions to Philippine trade and investment relations, Mabalot 's expertise positions him as a potential candidate for higher office. However, when queried about any intentions to enter politics and governance, he politely indicates that such aspirations are not currently on his radar. ”My desire is to help Filipinos and Filipino businesses. I always thought that after becoming a lawyer, I would remain a lawyer until retirement, but that wasn’t the case. With my work as a foreign trade service officer, I get to help a lot of people without involving politics.” ”We are appointed by the President, even as we go higher in rank, we have a career position so we have security of tenure. I think that’s one good thing about what we do [as foreign trade service officers], because there’s consistency,” he says. At the end of the day, Mabalot earnestly wants to serve and extend help in his practice in any way he can. For what the future brings, he leaves it up to faith and trust in God. ”I’m still very Catholic. It 's a very Filipino thing, but I believe that God will always guide me to the right path,” he ends.

e23b8788-3b48-4db2-8250-bc5691155f67 < Back IN GRATEFUL SERVICE OF THE FILIPINO MASSES Aside from taking pride in being his father’s son, former Senator Jinggoy Estrada is even more than proud to declare and embody that he is an Anak ng Masa. BY ROSY MINA PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA JR. Aside from taking great pride in being his father’s son, former Senator Jinggoy Estrada is even more than proud to declare and embody that he is an Anak ng Masa (Son of the Masses). The Filipino masses, whom his family has served for decades under the tutelage of former President Joseph “Erap” Ejercito Estrada, are the core and focus of his clan’s leadership.“For me, if not for the Filipino masses, kung hindi sa masang Pilipino, wala naman si Joseph Estrada. Wala naman din po si Jinggoy Estrada. So malaki ang utang na loob namin sa kanila (there won’t be a Joseph Estrada. There also won’t be a Jinggoy Estrada. So we are greatly indebted to them),” he tells LEAGUE Magazine. Anak ng Masa, the slogan that Estrada goes by, is a homage to his father’s widely popular slogan, Erap Para sa Mahirap (Erap for the Poor). “If there is what you call a Man of the Masses, and I’m referring to my father, and maybe that’s the brand of leadership that I have,” says Estrada. “He was a first class actor and superstar then mayor, senator, vice president, and president.” As a little kid, he tagged along with his father to all the barangays in the City of San Juan, where both of them eventually became mayors. “I saw for myself that he really has a big heart for the poor,” he recalls. “He showed this through his movies. Gumawa siya ng mga pelikulang pangmasa (he made films for the masses). He portrayed a lot of roles like a laborer, jeepney driver, and taxi driver. Then when he became a public servant, he saw that his priority is to help the underprivileged. And that is what I am trying to emulate." Estrada, born Jose Pimentel Ejercito, Jr., followed his father’s footsteps both in show business and public service. In 1988, he was elected as vice mayor of San Juan City. He rose through the ranks, serving three consecutive terms as mayor from 1992 to 2001 before being elected as senator for two terms from 2004 to 2016. “Talagang wala na akong ina-idolize [na iba] kung hindi ang tatay ko (I really do not idolize anyone else except for my father) ," he remarks. For him, it was memorable that he won his first term as mayor of San Juan when his father prevailed as vice president, noting that they were in a better position to help their constituents. “When I was mayor, parang na-turn over niya sa akin ‘yung reins ng government ng San Juan (it was like he turned over to me the reins of government of San Juan City). And I fulfilled all my promises to my constituents here in San Juan and of course, with the guidance of my father, him being the city’s mayor for 17 years. Whenever he had to make difficult decisions, Estrada consulted his father and sought advice. “But he never meddled when I was mayor of San Juan City. He knew that I could make it on my own.” It was a whole different arena when Estrada assumed a national position as a member of the Senate, and former President Erap knew that he had to offer some pieces of advice to his son. “He told me to give more time and to help the poor. He said when I decide, when there’s a tough decision that I have to make, I have to remember that my decisions have to be for the greater majority, with the greatest number. Kailangan ‘yung kung saan masaya ‘yung majority (It has to be where the majority is happy).” All in the family Estrada is also guided by his mother, former Senator Dr. Luisa “Loi” Estrada, whom he describes as very religious and doting. “She always taught me the values. Huwag nang papansinin kung merong bumabatikos sa iyo. Sabi niya, ‘Kung wala ka naman magandang sasabihin, ‘di manahimik ka nalang (Do not mind if there are those who criticize you. She said, ‘If you have nothing good to say, then just keep quiet’).’” He is aware that he cannot please everybody. “I’m really trying my best to please everybody but siyempre, marami pa rin mga hindi kuntento diyan. So wala naman tayong magagawa (of course, there are still a lot who are not content. We cannot do anything about that). I can only do so much.” He has heeded his mother’s advice by trying to ignore naysayers. “They have the right naman to express what they don’t want,” he says. “But sometimes you get picked on a lot, you know. Minsan, nakakapikon din pero pinipigilan ko na sarili ko (Sometimes, it gets to me but I just restrain myself).” Estrada also receives much support and help from his family, especially now that he is again seeking a senatorial post in the May 2022 national elections. “My wife, my children, are very, very supportive. Eh sila na humahawak nung aking kampanya. Ako, kung ano nalang sabihin nila, ‘Oh, punta ka doon, punta ka dito.’ Ako na sumusunod sa kanila (They are the ones handling my campaign. Whatever they say, ‘Oh, go there, go here.’ I am the one who is following them),” he says with a chuckle. Memories in the Senate As he aims to make a comeback in the Senate, Estrada looked back on his 12 years in the Upper House, where he came a long way from being a quiet neophyte to becoming Senate President Pro Tempore to former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile. “I was there trying to observe. Hindi ako nagsasalita. Pinakikinggan ko lang sila. Ang gagaling nila mag-debate. Sabi ko, ‘Ah, parang hindi ako bagay dito (I was not talking. I was listening to them. They were very good at debating. I said, ‘Ah, maybe I do not fit in here).’” He admits that he was intimidated by “legal luminaries” such as Senators Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Joker Arroyo, Juan Ponce Enrile, and Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel. He eventually learned a lot from them, adding that Enrile and the late Defensor-Santiago were very accommodating and helpful mentors. “The veterans, they’re really going to pick on the neophyte senators,” he shares with a wistful laugh. “Titignan nila kung hanggang saan ka (They will see how much you can take).” This prompted Estrada to study and work hard to fulfill his legislative duties. He introduced 617 bills while clocking in perfect attendance without tardiness. “All the 617 that I filed, most of them were enacted into law and most of them are pro-poor bills,” he said, citing several implemented labor-related laws, a special program for the employment of students, and the Kasambahay Law for the protection and welfare of around 3 million kasambahays (household helpers) nationwide. “A lot of people knew that I was already an actor or the son of Erap. But they never knew that I finished my college education. I took up law. So kahit papano, meron naman tayong naintindihan (So somehow, I am able to understand things),” says the University of the Philippines (UP) economics graduate who studied Bachelor of Laws for four years at Lyceum of the Philippines University. Public service continues Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Estrada has carried on with his work of helping the less fortunate. He even began the JingFlix online show to reach out to more Filipinos. “Doon ko pinapadaan ‘yung aking mga tulong. Binibigyan ko sila ng konting kasiyahan, konting palaro, at konting papremyo (That is where I course my help. I give them some fun, some games, and some prizes).” From having around 100 live viewers at the onset, JingFlix now averages about 20,000 live viewers per episode. He said it has become a variety show of sorts that has brought out his public servant and entertainer sides at the same time. “Maybe because siyempre, artista tayo kahit papaano at pulitiko rin tayo. Kahit papaano, gusto rin natin magbigay ng konting kasiyahan, konting tulong sa ating kababayan lalunglalo na sa panahon ng pandemya (Maybe because of course, I am an actor somehow and also a politician. Somehow, I want to give some fun, some help to our countrymen especially in the time of pandemic),” says the former actor who won the FAMAS Awards, Metro Manila Film Festival, and Golden Screen Awards Best Actor for “Katas ng Saudi.” With persisting pandemic restrictions, Estrada thinks that social media must be harnessed further during the campaign period. “Ito na siguro ‘yung pinakamagandang paraan para magreach out sa ating mga kababayan (This is probably the best way to reach out to our countrymen).” In addition, Estrada has distributed food items, including bangus (milkfish) from his mother’s farm in Zambales, to residents in San Juan City and the provinces of Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, and Bulacan. “During harvest time, walang bibili (no one was going to buy) because of the pandemic so my mom told me to [buy them and] distribute these to the poor people. So that’s what I did.” He then expressed gratitude for the continued confidence of his family’s supporters. “Hindi pa rin natitinag ang inyong suporta sa amin (Your support for us still has not wavered),” he said. “Asahan po ninyo kung saka-sakaling palarin tayo na makabalik sa Senado, lahat ng ating mga panukalang batas na ihahanda ay para sa kapakinabangan ng ating mga kababayang masang Pilipino (You can expect that should I be fortunate to return to the Senate, all bills that I will prepare will be for the benefit of our fellow Filipino masses),” Estrada assures as he targets the possible continuation of his pro-poor legislative agenda. BACK

< Back PROJECT SAYSAY It all started in 2013, when Ian Christopher Alfonso, Senior History Researcher at the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) , noticed something in a Gawad Kalinga school in Tarlac where he usually volunteers. “Most of the visual educational materials they have are alien t o the pupils—not even American, for a Filipino to easily recognize,” he says. The charts that teach the ABCs and the basic shapes, colors, posted on classroom walls,are foreign. BY JOHN LEE CANDELARIA He also noticed in other Philippine schools that the quotations usually posted in theclassroom, at the very front where the teacher usually stands t o teach, is oftentimes an easily googled proverb or an adage from “anonymous” or “unknown”. “Such class room displays—products of the labor of love by those who prepared them, theteachers—must encourage and help students to understand the world,” he explains. So the next time he went to the school, instead of the usual ch alk, eraser, maps, and other schools supplies, he made posters with quotes by Filipino heroes like Jose Rizal, Apolinario Mabini, Andres Bonifacio, Gregoria de Jesus, and others. He gave it out tothe school to be posted on the classroom walls. And thus, Project Saysay was born. FINDING MEANING THROUGH HISTORY Saysay is Filipino for “meaning,” “sense,” “value,” or “relevance,” the root word of kasaysayan or history. This is Alfonso’s inspiration for creating posters of Filipino heroes with quotes which he personally researched and designed. “Project Saysay wants to utilize the visualization of Philippine history for schools and offices,” he explains, “it strives to democratize history in its practical purpose: be appreciated and be inspired to take action through it.” Indeed, these visual representations in the form of educational instructional materials are always in the presence of the students, and Project Saysay wants to turn this presence into a worthwhile experience. “We use rare illustrations of a particular historical figure or even lesser known personalities… and to further appreciate them, their words of wisdom are superimposed on their profile— and presto! A poster worth appreciating,” he elaborates. Project Saysay started with nothing but an idea. “It started with everything coming from my own pocket. I would ask for used illustration boards, with the black backing serving as background and the posters would be printed and stuck to the illustration boards,” Alfonso recalls. It’s a process which is cumbersome and costly, but he did it because he believed in the cause, which is his personal advocacy. In 2016, Alfonso established the Project Saysay Creatives Team, composed of friends, officemates, and colleagues who shared the common mission and vision with him. He understands understands that for his advocacy to grow further, he needs the help of educators, artists, and other professionals since visual communication involving children needs technical knowledge. “The quotes we choose must be appropriate to the competencies of the students,” he notes. Click here to read full article for free

< Back MATI: A GEM IN DAVAO ORIENTAL By James Steven Batucan There is much more to discover in Mati, Davao Oriental besides its picturesque landscapes and resorts. Mati City has always been a destination for beachgoers. Aside from being the hub of trade and industry developments, there is much more to discover in this provincial capital of Davao Oriental besides its picturesque landscapes and resorts. It is now renowned as a surfing and skimboarding destination for foreign visitors. HOW TO GET TO MATI? You can reach Davao Oriental by land from either the Province of Compostella Valley, where you’ll first see the Municipality of Banaybanay, or the Province of Siargao, where you’ll first see the Municipality of Cateel. Mati, the third city from the town of Banaybanay, is three hours away by van or private car or five hours away by utility bus. If you’re traveling to the city of Mati from the mainland, you’ll soon come across a zigzag road locally known as “Badas,” from which you’ll have a breathtaking view of Sleeping Dinosaur Island. THE AIRPORT If you are traveling from Manila, Cebu, or another city, you can reach Davao Oriental by flying over Davao City on one of the daily scheduled airline flights through the Davao International Airport or by taking a regularly scheduled vessel that sails the Manila-Davao Sea route only. It is also directly accessible by a twenty-five-minute chartered flight from Davao City International Airport to the Mati Community Airport, also known as the Imelda R. Marcos Airport in Mati City. Before the Mati Community Airport became a functioning airport, it was originally built as a border to land by some prominent Mati families, who later added a strip to turn it into an airport. It was initially known as the Imelda Marcos Airport because these families were close to the first lady at the time. During her visits in the 1970s, Mrs. Marcos would fly directly through the airport. After locals and officials realized the strip had airport potential, they had it registered with the Philippines’ Civil Aviation Authority (CAAP) as the Mati Community Airport (also known as RPMQ). The CAAP and the Saga Mindanao Flying Club are currently responsible for the airport’s operation and maintenance. As part of Congress’ plan to make the airport a potential Davao City replacement airport, renovations and an expansion are planned. FLY AROUND MATI The Saga Mindanao Flying Club’s ingenuity has enabled one to enjoy a lush and breathtaking aerial view of Mati, Davao Oriental’s scenery. The Saga Mindanao Flying Club is the only sports club of its kind in the province. It offers an activity called “Ultra-Light Flying” that lets people see the province’s amazing landscape from the air, which is a unique way to see it. SLEEPING DINOSAUR Along the long and winding road to Mati, Davao Oriental, there is a spectacular landmark view known as the Sleeping Dinosaur. The island got its name because it looks like a sleeping dinosaur, surrounded by water. The luscious green island can be easily spotted if you’re taking the land route, with a handful of free viewing decks along the winding road. SURFING IN MATI Mati is surrounded by several beautiful, clear-blue beaches. Dahikan, which is known as Mati’s surfing capital because of its huge, crystal-clear waves, attracts both domestic and foreign tourists on a daily basis. It also serves as a haven for the endangered pawikans (sea turtles). Dahikan beaches have produced a number of local surfers and skimboarders who have represented the city at local, national, and even international surfing competitions. One, if not the most famous is Sonny Boy “Bayogyog” Aborpo, a skimboarding and surfing prodigy who started shredding waves in 2004 at the young age of six years. Later on, Aborpo would compete and win several local, national, and even international competitions, all the while representing the City of Mati, Davao Oriental. Aborpo has bagged over 28 national skimboarding competitions to date, bagging the championship title each time; as well as competing in several international skimboarding and surfing competitions such as being the champion in Hong Kong in 2012, Malaysia in 2013, Singapore, and Malaysia in 2016, and having his most recent from October 2022 where he won the first-ever Algarve International Skim Competition in Portugal, beating at least 40 other competitors from around the world in addition to a few weeks prior where he was in Spain for the United Skim Tour. This goes to show that the shores of Mati do not fall short in producing great people and talent. GOLFING IN MATI Don Paco Rocamora Golf and Country Club (DPRGCC) is a nine-hole golf course in Barangay Dahican Mati City, adjacent to the Mati City Community Airport. The relatively flat course is the only golf course east of Davao City, but its design offers a variety of challenges to both beginner and advanced players. The facility also includes an eight-bay driving range and a 300-person clubhouse. Club cars, golf cars, trolleys, and caddies are also readily available to provide the best playing experience for players. FOOD AND DRINKS NOT TO MISS Mati also has a number of local household food establishments, such as Bador and Homebrew Café, each of which offers a distinct tasteful experience. Mati’s Bador is a household name when it comes to native chicken barbeque. A flavorful experience dating back to the 1970s, the juicy recipe has been passed down from father to son its time memorial. Since 1999, Bador’s name has been a football in Mati, popular with both locals and tourists. Finally, Homebrew is the only coffee shop in Mati, Davao Oriental, that offers customers a premium blended experience. Best sellers include the Homebrew Special, a creamy, sweet coffee blend, and the Popcorn Latte, which tastes exactly like drinking actual popcorn. The beans used in the establishment are a blend of 80% Arabica and 20% Robusta, all of which are sourced locally from Mt. Apo. They also have 100% pour-over imported beans, a light coffee that is rich in flavor and does not require any added sugar. Slow-drip coffee, which is prepared by batch because the extraction time ranges from six to eight hours, is also available in their café. They also sell fermented cold brew, which contains more than 200 milligrams of caffeine per cup, compared to regular brewed coffee, which contains only 50 milligrams per cup. Having said that, Mati is not only a venue to escape the hustle and bustle of city life but also a place to enjoy the magnificent sights and sounds of nature. To sum it all up, Mati, Davao Oriental, is a treasure chest full of gems for you to explore. Buy magazine here

< Back Harbinger of Change BY GODFREY T. DANCEL ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us.

< Back Escape the Ordinary with CABADBARAN CITY’S Most Stunning Backdrops BY TREISHA C. ROVERO LUSONG COLD SPRING A nature reserve, this cold spring lives up to its reputation as a hidden wonder with crystal-clear water. Amidst the humid climate of the country, visitors can relish the refreshing experience of the cold spring. Large rocks provide opportunities for jumping if you're up for a challenge or can also be spots for relaxation. One of the spring’s notable features is its being safe for swimming despite the rocky terrain, thanks to its gentle current. As the tarpaulin in the area greets you with "Bugnaw pa sa inyong relasyon, (Clearer than your relationship)," locals ensure you leave with a cozy heart. VIEW DECK Get a glimpse of Cabadbaran City through this scenic overlook, ideal for early morning jogs or evening camping with friends and family. Situated within the Cabadbaran River Watershed Forest Reserve, where lush greens flourish, this view deck offers a quiet escape. Aside from this, the city government intends to develop the area to support small merchants, providing visitors with an opportunity to enjoy both the stunning vista and local cuisine. MUSEO DE CABADBARAN If you're interested in educational and culturally rich destinations, you might enjoy the Museo de Cabadbaran's antique collection. Located in front of the city hall, which is close to ancestral houses and Mt. Hilong-Hilong via the Mahaba-Baranas Trail, this museum showcases historical documents and ancient Chinese artifacts that reflect Cabadbaran's heritage. Among the exhibits are trade ceramics from the Sung Dynasty, burial jars, spears, rowing paddles, Paleolithic and Neolithic tools, and contemporary folk art collections. CAASINAN BEACH Are you searching for Instagram-worthy sunsets and unique black sand beaches? Caasinan Beach is the place for you. Conveniently located, this beach features cottages and open spaces perfect for family and friends to gather and relax. Visitors can enjoy the convenience of comfort rooms and a small store selling snacks, beer, and soft drinks. Be aware that the currents can be generally strong, so it's important for visitors with children to stay vigilant and keep a close watch on them. ROSEDALE’S KAPEHAN & SQUASH PANCIT CANTON There's nothing more relaxing than sipping hot chocolate in front of the majestic mountain view at Rosedale's Kapehan. Enjoy the scenery with their amazing pastries and kakanin, along with hot drinks that perfectly complement the cafe's vibe. Alternatively, if you enjoy pancit canton as many Filipinos do, consider trying a healthier version found in Cabadbaran City. You can try their squash pancit canton, which substitutes squash for the typical flour noodles. This version maintains the familiar taste while adding nutritional benefits from the squash.

< Back SAN NARCISO’S 11TH PAWIKAN FESTIVAL: A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY EFFORT BY TREISHA C. ROVERO READ ABOUT THE 11TH ANNUAL PAWIKAN FESTIVAL IN SAN NARCISO, ZAMBALES, A CELEBRATION OF EFFORTS TO PROTECT SEA TURTLES AGAINST POACHING AND ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS, WHERE GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS, STUDENTS, ENVIRONMENTALISTS, AND MILITARY PERSONNEL CAME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT NESTING SITE PRESERVATION, HATCHLING RELEASES, AND COMMUNITY-DRIVEN MARINE PROTECTION INITIATIVES. The 11th annual Pawikan Festival took place last January 17, 2025, in the coastal town of San Narciso, Zambales, bringing the community together to champion the conservation of endangered Olive ridley sea turtles. Held every second Friday of January, the festival highlights the crucial role these marine creatures play in the ecosystem and the ongoing efforts to protect them. This year’s event saw enthusiastic participation from schools across San Narciso, including representatives from the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) and members of the Navy Corps. Together, they celebrated the occasion by shedding light on the continuous conservation work being done, particularly at the nesting sites along La Paz Beach. The festival’s origins date back to December 28, 2013, when Katimpuyog Zambales Inc., in partnership with the Pawikan Rangers, organized the first-ever celebration. Interestingly, their president, Reynaldo Renaliza Sr. shared that many of these Pawikan Rangers were once poachers, but they have since transformed into passionate protectors of these sea turtles. Today, their dedication ensures that Olive Ridley turtle eggs and hatchlings are safeguarded. Every night, they patrol the shores, carefully collecting eggs, relocating them to secure environments, and monitoring their release back into the ocean. In the event that an injured turtle tries to dig through the sand and is having a hard time, the rangers help them by making sure they can still dig the perfect circle they need for their eggs. The Olive ridley sea turtle, or Lepidochelys olivacea, is highly sensitive to light and movement. These turtles prefer nesting under the cover of darkness, carefully selecting safe spots for their eggs. The pawikan season typically runs from October to March of the following year with eggs undergoing an incubation period of 45-52 days down on the sand. The Pawicare hatchery plays a critical role in this process, meticulously collecting and documenting the eggs before transferring them to a controlled environment where they can develop safely. Beyond being a vibrant cultural event, the Pawikan Festival is a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting natural habitats and the marine life that depends on them. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Pawikan Rangers, more hatchlings now have a fighting chance to reach the sea. Their nightly patrols help safeguard eggs from poachers and other threats, reinforcing the significance of grassroots conservation efforts. One of the most touching moments of the festival is the ceremonial release of hatchlings into the ocean—a symbol of hope and renewal. As students, environmentalists, and military men gathered along La Paz Beach, they watched the tiny turtles make their way to the water, the fruit to months of dedicated care. Against the backdrop of the setting sun over La Paz beach, this collective effort to protect sea turtles reflects a deeper commitment to preserving the delicate balance of our marine ecosystem. With continued collaboration and advocacy, the legacy of the Pawikan Festival will endure, ensuring a brighter future for both sea turtles and the environment they call home.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte The Servant Leader What drove Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte to public service was a burning aspiration to reform government and improve its performance. BY JOYCE REYES-AGUILA PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA, JR. A progressive leader who chooses a path away from traditional politics—that’s how Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte wants to be known. She insists that she entered politics not for wealth, power, or prestige, and what drove her was a burning aspiration to reform government and improve its performance. “I have been described as forward-thinking,” she tells LEAGUE Magazine. “I am a crusader and a change-maker, and in this regard, I can say I am an idealist in a world of pragmatists. My vision is to strengthen institutions and standardize internal processes, protocols, and procedure for the purpose of maximizing the city’s resources in the delivery of basic services to our people, as well as to ease out corruption.” Belmonte has been serving Quezon City for 12 years now. She was previously the city’s vice mayor for three consecutive terms before vying for its highest office in 2019. On top of her agenda then were women’s rights, gender equality, enhancing social services particularly for the marginalized and migrating all government transactions online to eliminate face-to-face interaction that can lead to anomalous behavior. Belmonte says this ensures proper and honest collection of taxes. She also focused on decentralizing governance through the establishment of satellite action offices in all districts to enable her government to attend to the essential needs of their constituents efficiently, responsively and more conveniently. Belmonte also included the renovation and modernization of Quezon City’s health centers to ensure the digitalization of medical records, that medicine supply is immediately replenished and that each location will have one doctor. BUY MAGAZINE NOW TO READ FULL ARTICLE BACK

< Back Emerging From Crisis With A Mission BY RAGIE MAE TANO-ARELLANO THE PANDEMIC BROUGHT ABOUT MANY SAD STORIES, BUT IT HAS STIRRED THE HEART OF SAN JUAN COUNCILOR LORENZO FRANCISCO TAÑADA-YAM TO SERVE HIS CONSTITUENTS. C ouncilor Lorenzo Francisco Tañada-Yam’s job as a consultant to Mayor Francis Zamora during the COVID-19 pandemic deepened his care for the residents of San Juan City. It led him to witness the struggles of the people. For two years, he worked in the mayor’s office, seeing the people who need help with their health, work, unstable financial situations, and more. This experience, the councilor says, opened opportunities for him to consider entering public service himself. “I realized that I can do more. I can make a change in their lives, especially during these trying times,” Tañada-Yam explains. When the opportunity came to him to run under the mayor’s party, he immediately grabbed it. “From being a consultant, I was able to help this much, and in this role, through effective legislation, I can make bigger changes.” RUNS IN THE BLOOD The 23-year-old councilor is no stranger to politics. He comes from a family of public servants. He is the great-grandson of the longest-serving senator in the country, the late Senator Lorenzo Tañada who served the Philippines for 24 consecutive years. His father also served at the barangay level and tried to run for councilor in the city of San Juan, but never won. With this background, Tañada-Yam knew that entering public service is one way to make widespread, institutional changes. “It would inspire me when I would hear stories about my great-grandfather being the longest-serving senator in Philippine history. All the things he would do, all the stories I would hear, and witnessing it firsthand through my father, who served at the local level as barangay chairman,” shares Tañada- Yam. It’s the decisions that you make and the things that you do that really make an impact on people’s lives, whatever you do and whatever position you hold. Your service makes an impact on people’s lives. That’s what I believe. Tañada-Yam’s interest in politics started when he was a young student leader. He was a batch representative and member of the student council when he was in grade school, up until high school when he became the president of the student government. He was also the batch president of the College of Business at De La Salle University (DLSU) and the vice president of the whole batch. After college, he worked as a political affairs intern in the office of Senator Francisco “Kiko” Pangilinan. These experiences, according to the councilor, not only developed his character but fueled his passion to make an impact on people’s lives in whatever he does or in any position. One example was when he became part of the DLSU student council and they represented the student body in the consultation about the tuition fee hike. Tañada-Yam shares that the experience made him realize the weight of his position as a student representative because it directly affects his fellow students’ lives, even their family’s lives. “It’s the decisions that you make and the things that you do that really make a difference, whatever you do and whatever position you hold. Your service makes an impact on people’s lives. That’s what I believe,” explains Tañada-Yam. THE REAL WORLD There’s a big difference, however, between leading student councils and being part of a city council. Tañada-Yam has not yet reached a year in his stint as councilor. Although he was exposed to politics at an early age, he admits that he is not an expert who knows everything, and still needs opinions and wisdom from industry experts and veteran politicians. He describes his brand of leadership as consultative, which has been his style since his student council days. Tañada- Yam explains that he surrounds himself with smart, knowledgeable people especially if there’s a specific expertise needed: “I am the one who decides in the end. I learn by consulting with them, and I incorporate everyone’s decision into one solid solution.” He said that the pandemic’s traces are still evident, especially because there are still a lot of people who struggle to find jobs and are still feeling the pang. “For me, it’s about listening to what their needs are. Being the chairman of Ways and Means [Committee], I see firsthand all these business owners having a hard time paying outstanding balances during the pandemic because they were not able to reach targets or they have no income at all,” says Tañada- Yam. As much as he would want to help, however, his office can only do so much for the business owners. They helped coordinate with the legal and licensing offices to see what they can do for the business owners, especially with their outstanding taxes. But the limits of his position do not frustrate the young councilor, for he knows that his power is bound by the law which must be followed by everybody even, and especially, public servants such as himself. “Whatever compromises or concessions that we can make with these business owners, we will do it legally,” he stresses. He is not afraid to be honest with his constituents if he cannot provide remedies to their problems. Even if councilors do not implement projects, but rather create or craft legislation, Tañada-Yam shares that if there are projects that need their action, it is not done by one councilor alone but through collaborative efforts with other members of the city council. This year, however, he will focus on the scholarship program. Aside from the help of the national government, he will expand this program by looking for some kindhearted people and different companies to help in the education of some less privileged citizens of San Juan. Aside from scholarships, he is also working on adding more streetlights because certain areas are very dark. The councilor shares that when they were delivering goods during the pandemic, they were stumbling up an alley while walking to reach the houses. In order to install lights on roads and alleyways without access to light posts, Tañada-Yam is currently negotiating a partnership with a solar-powered lighting company and conducting feasibility studies on where to install solar lights in different barangays in San Juan. Along with cheaper electricity rates, Tañada-Yam thinks solar lights are more practical since they require less maintenance, are safer, and are in line with the city’s thrust of promoting renewable energy sources. By adding solar lights, the residents’ safety will also be improved. He adds that certain lights would be given away, while other lights would also be bought by the local administration. In addition to the 11 barangays in his district, he also wants to support 10 other barangays in the first district. BEING YOUNG IS NEVER AN EXCUSE TO HELP Tañada-Yam is the youngest of the 12 council members to be elected in San Juan’s history as well as in the 2022 elections. The 24-year-old councilor, who was 23 when he was elected, says, “That’s the accomplishment I’m proud of.” I didn’t find any difficulties [expressing] my thoughts, sharing with them my ideas. They also give me their feedback, which I am very much open to also. His age, according to him, is never an issue for the other councilors because the more senior ones recognize and accept the fact that he has a unique perspective on how service is carried out and how he approaches matters in the council. But Tañada-Yam humbly recognizes their breadth of experience and willingly learns from them, knowing that it’s a chance to further educate himself and connect with his fellow public servants. He is especially fortunate because everyone on the council, including the mayor, vice mayor, and all councilors, are members of the same party, Team Makabagong San Juan. He never feels like a newbie since the other council members view him as an equal, and the fact that he was chosen to chair two important committees—Ways and Means; and Urban Planning, Housing, and Zoning—is enough proof of this. Tañada-Yam emphasizes that being young should never be an excuse not to help, saying, “I didn’t find any difficulties [expressing] my thoughts, sharing with them my ideas. They also give me their feedback, which I am very much open to also.” The young councilor claims that his desire to help his constituents drives him to get out of bed every morning since it allows him to learn more about himself, his community, and local and national issues. “You understand their needs. Every day is a learning experience for me,” concludes Tañada-Yam.