< Back TARLAC DISTRICT 1 REP. CHARLIE COJUANGCO Charlie Cojuangco may have been a hesitant candidate, but today, he is fully committed to serving the people.

< Back TALKING POINTS: HOUSE SPEAKER PANTALEON ALVAREZ BY LEE CANDELARIA With only four laws passed on its first year in office, the 17th Congress will have to work harder this second regular session The first year of the Duterte administration is nothing but interesting. President Rodrigo Duterte enjoys extreme popularity with record-high satisfaction surveys and sweeping support in both houses of the Congress. This would mean that the legislative agenda of the administration should breeze through the esteemed halls of the House of Representatives and the Senate. But Duterte delivered his second State of the Nation Address in front of a Congress that only passed four bills into law (see sidebar). Congress seemed more occupied with investigations in aid of legislation such as Martial Law in Marawi, extrajudicial killings, and Senator Leila de Lima’s association to illegal drug sale in Bilibid This is not new in the Philippines. Many important laws take a few congresses to pass; some even do not pass during the administration of those who proposed it. Legislation in the Philippines is designed to be slow. Imagine that a single proposed measure must to go through three readings in both houses of Congress—more than 300 legislators reading, researching, and deliberating—that must certainly take some time. This characteristic of Philippine law making is aimed at making sure that everything has been ironed out before a law is enacted, especially because these laws will affect the lives of millions of Filipinos. LEGISLATING AMIDST CHALLENGES House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez admits to these challenges of legislation in the first year of the Duterte administration. In the opening of the second regular session of the House of Representatives last July 24, he delivered a speech marking the end Legislative Report With only four laws passed on its first year in office, the 17th Congress will have to work harder this second regular session BY LEE CANDELARIA of the first year of their work as legislators. He highlights that they have passed 210 legislative measures on the third reading, or an average of two bills per session day.

< Back KAP. CELERINO BALASOTO JR. You don’t need superpowers to do a great job as a public servant. Take it from Barangay Anos, Los Baños, Laguna Kap. Celerino Balasoto Jr. BY MARIDOL RANOA-BISMARK PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL SORIANO The name Celerino Balasoto Jr. may appear in Google search when someone looks for anything about Barangay Anos in Los Baños, Laguna. But its 11,401 residents (as of this writing) prefer to call their barangay captain Kap. Budjong. Teens playing basketball in the covered court call him by this name. Children run to him and put their bowed forehead on his extended hand to ask for his blessing. Senior citizens tearfully embrace him. The 50-year-old public servant calls his constituents by their first names. The barangay captain, a bachelor, may not have children of his own. But the number of his godchildren more than make up for it. “People ask me to stand as baptismal and wedding sponsor every year,” he says. “I already have grandchildren from some of my married godchildren.” THE PROTECTOR The barangay official is in his element when talking about his job. He can go on and on describing his projects the way a proud father would discuss his children’s achievements. He looks up from the pile of documents he’s signing, and points to a row of CCTV screens showing busy streets where jeepneys come and go. Then, he recalls how the barangay acquired these video surveillance systems. He remembers submitting a work program in 2015 to the municipal engineering office. It included a request to purchase CCTV cameras for P800,000. A year passed, but there was no word from the municipal office. So he took matters into his own hands. Kap. Budjong got the documents and asked his barangay treasurer to purchase CCTV cameras worth P50,000 and below. Time was running out. Barangay residents and visitors were experiencing road accidents, which could have been captured by the CCTV cameras. Kap. Budjong can send his trained tanod and staff to the scene ASAP and rush them to the nearest health center or hospital, give first aid, and help in other ways. Kap. Budjong worked around the shoestring budget by purchasing six CCTV cameras one at a time. Instead of getting the “merienda funds,” he requested for another CCTV camera for the street where the elementary school stood, along with its interior premises as well. “There have been no reports of kidnapping since,” he states. Thanks to the CCTVs, a drug addict was arrested, and deadly road accidents were minimized. Safety is big deal for Kap. Budjong, who instructed his barangay tanods to drive residents home in tricycles, especially at night. Many of the passengers are women; some are men who had one drink too many. “Anyone who refuses to obey must answer to me. The aggrieved party can get the tanod’s name and report it to me,” Kap. Budjong says. To deal with fire emergencies, Kap. Budjong turned down an offer to have a fire truck and chose more practical tricycle rescue patrol vehicles with fire extinguishers as these can easily enter and navigate the barangay’s alleys and narrow streets. They even cost less and are easier to maintain than trucks. “A fireman asked me if the men who rushed to a fire scene are my barangay tanods. He said that the tanods know how to use fire extinguishers,” Kap. Budjong says with pride. That’s because 20 barangay tanods underwent fire safety training from members of the Philippine Army itself. They’re scheduled to take a refresher course as well. Barangay Anos also has a standby Disaster Rescue Vehicle equipped with life vests, helmets, a ladder, fire extinguishers, rope, and power saw for emergencies. Knowing who to call in an emergency, and how to readily reach them, can save many lives. So Kap. Budjong thought of printing important numbers, like those of the barangay hall, fire department, police, health center, water district, and Meralco on bright green and orange stickers. He knows emergency situations create panic and confusion. Every minute counts. These colorful stickers, when displayed on visible places, like the table or the telephone, or when kept in a purse or tote bag, can save lives. >> > CLICK HERE TO READ FULL ARTICLE !! FOR FREE!

< Back WHERE COASTLINE, CULTURE, AND COMMUNITY CONVERGE BY TREISHA C. ROVERO DIVE INTO THE REFRESHING RIVERS OF SAN NARCISO, RIDE THE WAVES AT LA PAZ BEACH, AND EXPERIENCE LAMBAKLAD FISHING WHILE INDULGING IN ZAMBALES’ WORLD-FAMOUS MANGOES. WHETHER YOU SEEK ADVENTURE, CULTURE, OR A PEACEFUL ESCAPE, SAN NARCISO OFFERS A ONE-OF-A KIND EXPERIENCE YOU WON’T FORGET. A destination where history, nature, and local livelihood come together to create an authentic and enriching experience—this is San Narciso, Zambales. Beyond its beaches, this charming town is home to vibrant fishing communities, cultural landmarks, and skilled artisans who keep local traditions alive. Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the shore or a deeper connection to its heritage, the town welcomes you to explore its unique blend of beauty and tradition. PAPER TREE RIVER RESORT For those who love the water but want to avoid sandy beaches, Paper Tree River Resort offers a refreshing alternative. This hidden gem allows visitors to enjoy the cool, clear waters of San Narciso’s rivers without worrying about the sticky mess of saltwater and sand. One of the best things about this resort is its affordability. While a small Php30 environmental fee is required upon entry, the resort itself offers free admission. Visitors can rent cottages starting at just Php300 for six people, with larger options available for up to 25 guests at Php1,000 making it an ideal spot for family outings or barkada getaways. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to relax and cool off, this is a must-visit. CLAY AVENUE POTTERY Art and craftsmanship thrive in San Narciso, thanks to Clay Avenue Pottery—a studio owned by Mia Casal, a talented artist who started this venture in 2013. Her pottery has made its way to high-end restaurants in Manila, showcasing the skill and dedication behind each piece. Creating pottery is no simple task. It begins with shaping the clay, followed by careful drying, kiln-firing, and glazing before the final product emerges. What makes these pieces even more special is their connection to Zambales itself. If you check the bottom of any Clay Avenue pottery, you’ll find a distinct black sand mark, a signature of the region’s volcanic-rich soil. This place is perfect for those who appreciate handmade artistry and want to see the magic of pottery come to life. LAMBAKLAD FISHING Fishing is more than just a livelihood in San Narciso— it’s a way of life. One of the most fascinating local livelihoods is lambaklad fishing, a method that combines the words “lambat” (net) and “baklad” (fish corral). This sustainable fishing technique ensures a steady supply of fresh seafood while preserving marine life. Charina Arguelles, president of the Deep Sea Fisherfolk Association, shares how the organization was formed in 2013, with many fisherfolk migrating from Antique to settle in San Narciso. The fish caught here range from tuna in deep waters to smaller species near the shore. What makes lambaklad even more unique is the live-selling practice associated with it. Every 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM, their secretary, Sholyn Brocoy-Ronduen, goes live on Facebook while aboard a flat boat, showing buyers the freshly caught fish. This modern approach ensures that most of the fish is already sold before reaching the shore. The fishing area spans about 8,000 square meters, marked by floating barriers that keep boats from passing through. It has three stages, meant to ensure that fishes caught in the third net are already adults and ready for harvest. In the event that a sea turtle gets caught in the lambaklad, which usually happens because food is abundant there, they make sure that it finds its way out of the net. Thanks to a donation from Senator Risa Hontiveros and combined efforts of the local government unit and the Deep Sea Fisherfolk Association, materials for the lambaklad project were secured, benefiting 89 members, including 30 active f isherfolk. SAN SEBASTIAN CHURCH At the heart of San Narciso stands San Sebastian Church, a historic structure located near the municipal hall. A visit here takes you on a journey through time, beginning with the legendary Bells of San Sebastian Parish. The oldest bell was cast when San Narciso was founded from five Ilocano barrios: Alasiis, Bobolon, Sindol, Pamasirauan, and San Marcelino. This same bell later served as the first church bell in 1849, after a powerful typhoon devastated the town in 1844. It was later replaced in 1868 by Fr. Alberto Serrano De Santa Ana, and the last bell, commissioned by Fr. Francisco Moreno De Dolores in 1894, still rings today. Inside the church, visitors are greeted by a large painting of Jesus Christ, a serene sight that invites reflection and prayer. As part of the Diocese of Iba, the church continues to be a cornerstone of faith for the people of San Narciso. LA PAZ BEACH For those seeking adventure, La Paz Beach is the perfect place to ride the waves. Though not as famous as other Philippine surfing spots, its uncrowded shores and consistent waves make it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned surfers alike. The waves are particularly strong during peak months, making it an exciting challenge for those who love the sport. Around the beach, there are several resorts, including Selah Campsite and Beach Resort, where guests can either bring their own tents or rent accommodations. Beyond surfing, Selah Campsite and Beach Resort offers thrilling activities like banana boat rides, jet skiing, and sunset bonfires. As the sun dips below the horizon, the entire beach transforms into a scenic paradise, with locals and tourists alike enjoying food, music, and the simple pleasure of ocean air. MANGO HIGHWAY No trip to Zambales is complete without tasting its world-famous mangoes. Enter Mango Highway, the ultimate pasalubong center, where visitors can find every kind of mango product imaginable—fresh mangoes, dried mangoes, mango shakes, and more. Aside from mangoes, the stalls here also sell bagoong, chicharon, accessories, ref magnets, and singkamas—making it a great stop for food items and souvenirs before heading home. If you love mangoes, this highway is nothing short of heaven!

228ac2ec-9cbd-4f95-941f-3dbf22167f58 < Back VISION ZERO The undersecretary strives to achieve DSWD’s aim—zero poverty and zero hunger for all Filipinos. BY MARIELLE MONTAYRE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA, JR. I want the Filipino people to feel DSWD’s presence. I want DSWD to reach out and not the other way around.” This declaration of the agency’s commitment comes from Undersecretary for Operations Aimee Torrefranca-Neri of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The DSWD is the lead government agency mandated to formulate, implement, and coordinate programs and policies for the social welfare and development of the Filipino people. It has livelihood programs that empower communities; financial assistance for those who lost their jobs and cannot return to their province; medical assistance for those who cannot afford proper healthcare; and more. Today, this multifaceted agency continues to strive toward achieving its ideal of zero poverty and zero hunger for all Filipinos. PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY Since 1939, the DSWD has undergone several name changes—from the Department of Health and Public Welfare, to the Social Welfare Commission, to the Department of Social Services and Development. In 1978, it became the Ministry of Social Services and Development. In 1987, it was reorganized by then President Corazon C. Aquino to what is known today as the DSWD. Yet, throughout its history, the agency’s mandate remained the same in furtherance of the social welfare and development of the poor, especially children, women, older persons, persons with disabilities, families in crisis or at risk, and communities needing assistance. The DSWD leadership’s commitment to improving the ordinary Filipinos’ lives has also remained through the years. It is this same commitment that Usec. Neri continues to honor and live by. Previously assigned to the Department of Justice as Assistant Secretary and to the Bureau of Immigration as Associate Commissioner, Usec. Neri is committed to her new position at DSWD. On September 3, 2018, Usec. Neri joined the ranks of the DSWD alongside Secretary Rolando Bautista. “Even with my other posts prior to being DSWD Undersecretary, I always reminded myself of the philosophy that I inherited from President [Rodrigo] Duterte. He always tells us [that] if you enter public service, you have to love the people; otherwise, you’ll suffer burnout,” says Usec. Neri. “So that’s what’s inculcated in my mind—when I’m in public service, I really have to love the people.” Such personal philosophy is apropos to the mandate of the DSWD. The 38-year-old public servant graduated with a degree in AB Economics and Bachelor of Laws from the Xavier University Ateneo de Cagayan. She has extensive experience as a lawyer, having served the Court of Appeals Mindanao, as well as the ATN Law-CDO and P&T Law Firms where she was managing partner. She is also known for her work as a women’s rights advocate. PRIORITY PROGRAMS The DSWD has many priority programs, one of which is the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps, a social protection program meant to aid the health and education of poor Filipino households. Beneficiaries receive cash grants for health, education, and rice subsidy upon fulfilment of certain conditions. The 4Ps targets 4.4 million beneficiaries, while the actual registered number of beneficiaries under the 4Ps is around 4.1 million. There is also the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), which aims to provide the poor with income-generating opportunities to improve their standard of living. With the SLP, persons in need can opt for either the microenterprise development that supports microenterprises to become more economically viable, or the employment facilitation that assists participants to further employment opportunities. The Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) is geared toward poor communities affected by calamities and disasters to improve local planning, budgeting, and disaster risk reduction and ensure access to services. The Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) aims to provide a safety net for those who face illness, death of a family member, natural or manmade disasters, and other crisis situations—it offers medical, burial, transportation, and educational assistance. Finally, the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens entitles indigent senior citizens to a monthly stipend to augment their daily needs. Based on the directive of Secretary Bautista, the pension is to be disbursed per semester for more efficient payout. This is the second priority of the DSWD because of the clamor of more senior citizens, which resulted in the passage of Republic Act No. 11350 which provides for the creation of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC). “For my part, I really want to strengthen the Sustainable Livelihood Program,” the DSWD Undersecretary says. “The Pantawid has been strengthened because it has been institutionalized.” The conditional cash transfers under the 4Ps is unfortunately not sustainable in the long run. It could, however, help prepare economically disadvantaged Filipinos for participation in the SLP. The capital given in the SLP aids the beneficiary to start his own business, earn profit once operational, and become selfsustaining. “I want to strengthen [SLP] because I want the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino beneficiaries to graduate [from the program] not because of attrition, but because they are financially independent already. My fervent desire is to strengthen SLP while I’m still here at DSWD, before my term ends,” she adds.

< Back FULFILLING HER DESTINY By Lakambini Bautista PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY HEJIE SURALTA Congresswoman Cindi King-Chan bares her plans and priority projects for Lapu-Lapu City. Congresswoman Cindi King-Chan of Lapu-Lapu City’s lone district regularly keeps her constituents up to date about her day’s agenda via her Facebook account. She finds social media an effective channel to connect with the Oponganons, since she spends a lot of time in Manila these days to attend Congressional hearings. The first-term congresswoman has been elected to become vice-chairperson of three committees—Tourism; Welfare of Children; and Women and Gender Equality—causes and advocacies that are close to her heart. She’s also a member of the committees on Visayas Development, Trade and Industry; Micro and Small Enterprises; Disaster Resilience; Basic Education; Games and Amusements; and Transportation. Chan shared on Facebook some of the highlights of her first month as congresswoman. These include facilitating the initial distribution of financial assistance to Oponganons in partnership with government agencies and the provision of scholarship grants to poor but deserving students. She also established concrete plans for the construction of multipurpose buildings in various barangays. Together with the DPWH, she inspected and assessed the unfinished road projects. To be better informed about the pressing issues affecting the city, Chan has also met with different government agencies, people’s organizations, and barangay officials. The legislator assures LEAGUE that she’s committed and determined to do her part in achieving the development goals of Lapu-Lapu City, which is considered “one of the most dynamic and progressive cities in the Philippines.” But Chan also knows for a fact that the road to recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and Typhoon Odette will be a long, arduous one, so she’s working closely with her better half—Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan—in addressing the needs of the city and its people. Theirs is a very ideal relationship, says the congresswoman, who has been married to the mayor for 25 years. “We make sure everybody in the team is aligned so we know where we can help each other,” she says. “We support each other’s projects.” The First Lady of Lapu-Lapu City makes herself available whenever the mayor schedules community outreach programs via “Team Ahong, Team Libre.” CINDI CARES The legislator’s priority programs are summed up by the letters of her name—which also served as her battle cry in her political campaign. C stands for “Children, women, elderly, and PWDs,” I for “Infrastructure,” N for “New Normal in Tourism,” D for “Dialysis Center,” and I for “Institutionalization of Microfinance Programs and Access to Capital to Support Small and Medium Enterprises.” As vice chairperson of the Committee on Welfare of Children, Chan says she will ensure the enactment of a law against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC). The provisions of this law, she shares in a Facebook post, will address the worries of parents when it comes to OSAEC. “Bilang isang magulang, alam kong pareho tayo ng mga hangarin—ang panatilihing ligtas ang ating mga anak laban sa karahasan at protektahan sila sa lahat ng paraan (As a parent myself, it is our shared dream to exhaust all means to keep them safe from harm and violence),” says the mother of four. Chan puts a premium on quality education, and to make it accessible to underprivileged youth, one of her plans is to create a state college in Lapu-Lapu City, with an annex in Olango Island. The said school will provide free tuition privileges to deserving students of the city. The First Lady of Lapu-Lapu City makes herself available whenever the mayor schedules community outreach programs via Team Ahong, Team Libre. Livelihood projects and employment opportunities for women will be put in place, and assistance will be made available to the elderly and PWDs. To address the problem of flooding, Chan says she will find ways to secure adequate funding so they could finally implement the master drainage plan. She also plans to propose the creation of a Lapu-Lapu City District Engineering Office in Congress, so that public works projects will be implemented more promptly and efficiently. To boost Lapu-Lapu’s tourism, which is one of the city’s economic drivers, she will push for the development of lesser-known destinations like Olango Island. “There are 11 barangays there, with three islets,” Chan tells LEAGUE. “It has a marine and bird sanctuary, so that could be developed into an ecotourism spot.” During her stint as chairperson of the city’s Tourism, Cultural, and Historical Affairs Commission (TCHAC), she played a major role in mounting the country’s quincentennial celebration events, commemorating the victory of Lapu-Lapu in the Battle of Mactan. What she plans to do now as congresswoman is to find the funds for building a museum dedicated for Lapu-Lapu, which will be an added attraction in the city. She will be working closely with the Central Visayas Center for Health Development of the Department of Health (DOH) so they could establish a dialysis center that will provide free treatment to indigent patients. She has likewise proposed House Bill 3719, an act requiring the establishment of dialysis clinics in all national, regional, and provincial hospitals. To further boost the economy of Lapu-Lapu City, Chan vows to institutionalize microfinance programs that will extend financial assistance to small and medium enterprises. “My office will also look at possible partnerships with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for this purpose,” she says. NOT A POLITICIAN Some are saying Chan lacks experience as a local government official prior to being elected as congresswoman. While that is true, the legislator believes that her experiences as the chairperson of the TCHAC and being active in many humanitarian causes have equipped her for public service. Perhaps, some are not really aware of her past involvement in cultural and humanitarian work, as she did these without fanfare. She is still learning the ropes as a legislator, yes. But what matters most, she says, is the heart for service. “I’m here to serve, not to be served,” she tells LEAGUE. During the pandemic, she actively participated in the relief efforts of the city, and she will continue to do so—and do even more—now in her capacity as congresswoman. The 54-year-old legislator says she didn’t plan to enter politics, but she believes in destiny. “It’s how you accept the challenge and the opportunities given to you. That defines you and makes you who you are,” says Chan. Buy magazine here

Co was once on her way to a medical career, but realized soon enough that her calling was not in becoming a doctor but rather someone who lobbies for health workers’ needs. < Back ENSURING THE WELFARE OF BARANGAY HEALTH WORKERS Co was once on her way to a medical career, but realized soon enough that her calling was not in becoming a doctor but rather someone who lobbies for health workers’ needs. By Lawrence Fernandez PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO S. PERALTA, JR. Barangay Health and Wellness (BHW) Party-list Representative Angelica Natasha Co is blooming where she is planted. And although joining public service was not her intention until the sector she dearly represents asked for representation in the 18th Congress, she now comfortably wears the legislator’s hat. Co’s journey to serve started when barangay health workers (BHWs) in Bicol asked to be represented in Congress through the party-list system. She was in favor of the proposal, but none of the regional BHW presidents expressed interest in running, claiming that they were already too old and that entering politics was difficult. “There is anxiety getting into politics. Even if I did not want to, I was forced to run because they needed a representative in Congress. My private life had to stop, and then I joined politics,” Co recalls. 𝐇𝐔𝐌𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐁𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐍𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 While Co was initially reluctant to join politics, there was no denying that her leadership skills had already been cultivated in her youth. Before she became engaged in ensuring the welfare of around 300,000 BHWs in the country, she had to ensure that every item in their family-owned business was accounted for. In her younger years, Co had a crash course in management when she was put in charge of their hardware store in Legazpi City, Albay, during weekends. While weekdays were reserved for school, she had to take care of their industrial and construction equipment business on Saturdays and Sundays. “During weekends, gigisingin ako ng papa ko nang maaga para ako ‘yung magbubukas ng hardware. Maglilinis ako, mag-iinventory ako ng mga pako, ‘yung ganun. At ang sweldo ko niyan, 50 pesos kada araw. ‘Yun ‘yung gagamitin ko pang-snack. So, kung may gusto akong bilhin, doon ko kukunin (My father would wake me up early to open our hardware store. I would clean up and do some inventory of nails. I received a salary of 50 pesos a day, and I would use this to buy snacks or some other things that I wanted),” shares Co. Yet, as if the script of her life was already being written, she started to get in touch with the BHWs at around the same time. Her father’s involvement in politics also became a factor in leading her to this role. “When I was younger, I was the regional president of the Philippine Society for Youth Science Clubs (PSYSC), and one of my activities was conducting medical missions. During that time, I was already [working] with the BHWs. So, I’m kind of close to them. We seldom saw each other when I went to college, until my dad became a politician,” Co explains. Her interest in science and health continued when she finished psychology at the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU). She later on entered medical school at the University of Santo Tomas (UST), but it became apparent that her calling was to improve the welfare of those who look after other people. The plight of BHWs prompted Co to file bills that support the frontliners of the healthcare system, especially in far-flung areas. The bills aim to honor the modernday heroism of these selfless individuals and provide necessary benefits that can help them meet their own needs. As BHW Party-list’s first nominee, Co had her first term in 2019 after the party-list group gained one seat in the Lower House. This served as assurance that BHWs would get enough help. Being in a position of power never gets into Co’s head as she keeps herself grounded. Being a steward of good governance, she says, can be done without fanfare. Indeed, public service may be a far cry from her days of counting nails, but humility remains cemented in her core. “If I’m needed here, I’ll do it. I am not the type to be blinded by power. I’m still the same person. I do my work. I don’t care if I don’t get noticed, but I would be thankful if they recognize what I do. What matters is that we are able to assist those in need. That’s my brand of leadership: simple, real. It is what it is,” Co says. Co’s drive to succeed led her to be elected as secretary-general of the Party-list Coalition during the 18th Congress. The coalition is composed of incumbent party-list representatives. 𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐒𝐄 𝐖𝐇𝐎 𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐔𝐒 Though her responsibilities continue to mount, Co never forgets the group that trusts her the most. Her connections with BHWs for most of her life made it easy for Co to pinpoint their struggles as they fulfill their essential tasks. “Most of them started young, and they are now married. But up to now, they still have no fixed salaries yet. The barangay health workers are volunteers, and some of them get as low as 50 pesos a month. That’s not enough for their food, and more so for transportation especially that they do house-to-house tasks,” laments Co. This plight of BHWs prompted the lady solon to file bills that support the frontliners of the healthcare system, especially in far-flung areas. She filed House Bill (HB) 01670, or “An Act Declaring April 7 Every Year as Barangay Health Workers Day,” to honor the modern-day heroism of these selfless individuals. Co also introduced HB01547, or “An Act Providing for the Protection of Barangay Health Workers for Continued Health Services.” But the most critical piece of legislation she authored is HB01546, or “An Act Providing for the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers,” which aims to ensure that they enjoy their fundamental rights. She is pushing for the passage of this magna carta so that BHWs can have health benefits, transportation and food allowances, and scholarships for their children. The proposed health benefits also include discounts on doctor ’s consultation fees and medicines. These incentives will be of great help, especially to BHWs who are not yet senior citizens. “With that, at least, they will have benefits [that can help them meet their needs] because they only get honoraria since they are just volunteers. It’s actually just the basics—food and transportation—so that they can move around because that’s their work. Then there are the health benefits because they are frontliners,” Co explains. Co will also continue to push for first aid training to improve the BHWs’ services, especially in areas where there are no doctors assigned to the barrios. If they are trained in first aid, Co explains, BHWs can respond to accidents or emergency cases that do not need hospital treatment and they will just report these to the Department of Health (DOH). Though programs for BHWs are already making some headway, Co admits that it will take more improvement to reach all BHWs in the Philippines. This means exerting more effort and partnering with more leaders and agencies to push for her other initiatives. BHWs will benefit immensely from infrastructure initiatives, especially since some have to walk long hours to reach places that are not accessible even by tricycle. Co claims that BHWs also require additional blood pressure measuring equipment, which is why they intend to allot funds to buy such. For each barangay, they want to distribute one blood pressure-measuring apparatus. The congresswoman takes pride whenever BHWs reach the farthest corners of the nation to bring much-needed materials. She cites an island in Rizal where the residents were devastated by a typhoon. Aside from some medical equipment, Co’s office also brought bicycles to ease the delivery of services by BHWs in each house. While reaching every BHW is arduous, Co and her staff make it a point to meet as many of them as possible, even if it entails long travel hours and riding public transportation. It’s a challenge that keeps her linked to her sworn duty. 𝐀 𝐁𝐈𝐆𝐆𝐄𝐑 𝐈𝐌𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐓 𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍’𝐒 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇 Well aware that her job is to craft laws not just for the sector she represents but for all Filipinos, Co has pledged to extend her work beyond addressing the needs of BHWs. She also wants to pursue initiatives to help Filipinos stay in shape. She wants BHWs to be present in schools so they can adequately observe students exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms. “Not all students can be monitored by the teacher. A barangay health worker can act as the assistant who knows how to read the temperature, determine whether it’s a cough or cold, and recognize nausea,” Co explains. She also wants to tax foods with sodium levels above what the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends, as she did with high-sugar foods. This would discourage Filipinos from consuming more chips because Filipino food is already salty. Co believes that this would encourage Filipinos to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Co is also pushing for reproductive health education that starts at the barangay level because it is a powerful educational tool, especially for those who lack knowledge about issues related to pregnancy. This will also be a way to curb the country’s growing population. “Education is really powerful. If they know what will happen, what they are doing, and the consequences, they will prepare well before getting pregnant. So, reproductive health education is very badly needed in our country,” she stresses. 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 Co’s advocacy goes beyond physical and mental health, given that she also has a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design. She is also passionate about maintaining the country’s heritage as a member of the House Special Committee on Creative Industry and Performing Arts. Co also helped set up the Council for the Creatives, along with Pangasinan 4th District Representative Christopher De Venecia. “We’re just like a group of friends who like the arts. Then someone opened up a topic about creating a committee, and then we did create a committee on that. Meanwhile, there were already bills passed to create that council, and hopefully, it will gain ground,” Co says with hope. Co has expressed concern that if next generations are unable to continue what she started, the culture she wants to uplift may perish. That’s why children’s health is also dear to her as chairperson of the House Committee on the Welfare of Children. A courtesy call with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is also in the works to hold seminars for proper child rearing and parenting. With so much on her plate, Co makes sure to fix her schedule and maximize the time she has. What’s certain, though, is that she will leave no stone unturned in doing what’s best for others. “Where I am needed, I will go,” she assures. Education is really powerful. If they know what will happen, what they are doing, and the consequences, they will prepare well before getting pregnant. So, reproductive health education is very badly needed in our country.

BAMBANG RESIDENTS PARTICIPATE IN BARANGAY LIVELIHOOD PROGRAM < Back Barangay officials tell LEAGUE about their health initiatives. BAMBANG RESIDENTS PARTICIPATE IN BARANGAY LIVELIHOOD PROGRAM More than a hundred persons with disabilities (PWDs), out-of-school youth, senior citizens, and single parents of Pasig City’s Barangay Bambang were taught how to make candles, fabric conditioners, dishwashing liquid, and liquid detergents. As part of this livelihood program, the barangay officials in Bambang asked the Gender and Development (GAD) Office of the Pasig local government and a few women’s organizations to help the program’s beneficiaries learn how to create their own source of income. Kagawad Bernabe Angeles stated that Bambang Chairman Reynaldo Sanson, Jr. and the rest of the barangay council members are pleased with the project’s success because they were able to fulfill their responsibilities and achieve their goal of assisting the unemployed in their community.

< Back A Shining Example Local government leaders all over the country could learn a thing or two from Bel-Air, the country’s richest barangay BY JOHN LEE CANDELARIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICKY LADIA The barangay is the country’s smallest, most basic administrative unit, and its leadership, although the most direct to its constituents, gathers little political clout. Those with political ambitions would rather start somewhere higher, if they desire to be more popular and influential in the future. It is therefore quite interesting why and how barangay leaders stay, and last. For Barangay Captain Constancia “Nene” Q. Lichauco, the answer is simple: “I like what I’m doing, and I cannot see myself doing anything else.” It must be daunting to lead a barangay situated deep in the heart of the country’s central business district (CBD), with two of the country’s most exclusive subdivisions, Bel-Air and Salcedo Villages. But it comes with a great advantage, too, because Barangay Bel-Air is known to be the richest barangay in the country. “The bigger challenge is to innovate programs where we could spend the money. I have been asking everyone for programs they want to implement, money is not a problem,” says Lichauco. Barangay Bel-Air’s income could rival the income of many cities and municipalities in the country. PILOTS’ HAVEN Lichauco has led the barangay since 1989, and even before, since she was initially the president of Bel-Air Village homeowners’ association. There’s a story why it’s called Bel-Air. Back in 1956, pilots of the Philippine Airlines requested a subdivision from the Ayala Corporation, and desired to include the word “air” to the name. Bel-Air was born in 1957, which was built in four phases, Bel-Air I to IV. Now, the barangay includes Ayala North, Buendia Avenue Extension, the Ayala Triangle, and Salcedo Village. Shaped like a tobacco pipe, the barangay’s land use is predominantly residential and commercial. Bel-Air’s location is something that other barangays would envy. It is in the heart of the CBD, so access is easy for residents to visit major shopping districts like Greenbelt, Rockwell, or food and entertainment hubs like Salcedo, Poblacion, and Jupiter Street. It is easy to be where you need to be, and quite an advantage for those wanting to look for recreational options at walking distances. Click here to read full article for free

< Back A Beacon of Compassionate Service BY KAYDEE DELA BUENA GOING BEYOND HER RAGS-TO-RICHES STORY, CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA MAYOR VILMA CALUAG IS BRINGING HER OWN BRAND OF GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP THAT’S BEST DESCRIBED AS “SERVICE ROOTED IN COMPASSION.” On June 30, 2022, Mayor Vilma Caluag made history by becoming the first female mayor of the City of San Fernando in the province of Pampanga. Her path to victory was far from easy as the mother of seven bested four other candidates, securing 57,486 votes in a tightly contested race. Formerly the chief of Barangay Dolores, she also served as the president of San Fernando’s Association of Barangay Captains. Interestingly, public service was not a role Caluag initially aspired to pursue. In fact, she had taken up AB Literature at the University of the Assumption in San Fernando, Pampanga, with dreams of becoming something else entirely. However, life led her to become a successful entrepreneur instead, building an impressive portfolio of diverse businesses. Over the years, she and her husband established St. Nicolas College of Business and Technology, Mother Teresa of Calcutta Medical Center, Kings Royale Hotel, a commercial building, and a poultry farm, among others. FROM PERSONAL SUCCESS TO SUCCESS FOR THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY With the success of Caluag’s business endeavors—especially their school and hospital—her constituents could more clearly envision a better life and future, with the city flourishing under her leadership. If she could achieve it for herself, she could do it for the entire community. While her initial interests lay elsewhere, the call to serve and fulfill her duty to her country and community became too loud for Caluag to ignore. She admits, “I may not have initially sought this path, but I’m committed to it.” Perhaps her husband, former Barangay Chairperson Melchor “Ngongo” Caluag, played a role in persuading her to run for public office. Caluag tested the waters and ran for mayor in 2019, just before the pandemic. She took her loss in stride and conceded to the winning candidate. The will to serve, however, remained burning inside her. Fueled by this, she emerged victorious in her second mayoralty run, which was an equally tight race. RISING FROM THE BOTTOM Caluag’s background may differ from that of other public servants, but her understanding of the needs of the poor and vulnerable is profound. She reflects, “People say my family lived a ‘simple’ life, but that’s not how I’d describe my childhood. We were definitely poor.” Raised in San Fernando with her siblings, her family made a living by selling ice. Their business thrived during the summer but struggled during the rainy season, forcing them to tighten their belts. She vividly remembers their home in Dolores Village being flooded, leading to long illness due to wading in stagnant water for extended periods. “Not a year passed that I didn’t get fungal infections because of the flooding.” As a child, Caluag contributed to the family’s income by selling candles to cemetery visitors during All Saints’ Day and baskets of fruit for the New Year. It was a challenging childhood, but her unique experiences honed her resourcefulness and ability to spot overlooked opportunities. She admits that her particular background shaped her perspective on public service. She saw it as an opportunity to use her resources and position to help the poor, understanding their struggles intimately. She explains, “I witnessed poverty and experienced its implications in my own life. The poor had to beg, losing their dignity. For example, those seeking help just to bury a family member had to go from office to office, enduring the indignity of begging during their time of grief.” “Mahirap ka na, lalo mo pang mararamdaman na mahirap na mahirap ka (As if it were not enough that you are poor, you get to feel that you are dirt poor),” she says as she shakes her head. “In most cases, when the poor get sick, they just succumb to the illness and die. Why? Because they’re poor. They do not get medical care because they do not have money.” For Caluag, no one should have to beg for a dignified life or death, especially when there are leaders and a local government duty-bound to uphold these human rights. Her commitment is clear: “Kahit mahirap yung tao, hindi na nila mararamdaman na mahirap sila (The poor would no longer feel that they are poor).” HEALTHCARE FOR THE MOST VULNERABLE Health services are a cornerstone of Caluag’s platform, leveraging her experience managing a hospital to provide accessible, affordable, and, if possible, free healthcare to her constituents. Besides offering free burial services, the city funds free chemotherapy treatments for cancer patients and provides free medicine for senior citizens, with plans to expand services and widen medical coverage. In an impressive achievement, the local government unit (LGU) established a dialysis center within Caluag’s first 100 days in office through a strategic public-private partnership (PPP). The government provided the land, while partners developed the facilities. “Hindi kami naglabas ng pera, at hindi kumikita ang gobyerno dito [The government didn’t spend anything, and neither does it earn from this project.] It’s not an issue for us that the LGU will not earn revenue from this endeavor because what’s important for me is that the unfortunate are given the service they deserve,” she beams. She continues, “It’s really touching when people approach me to share their thanks. Being able to extend their life and improve their quality of life. This is a blessing.” She adds, “Don’t worry that we will not be able to sustain this program. God will continue to pour his blessings upon us.” In addition to assisting the elderly and the sick, Caluag also has programs that focus on children and students. The pandemic severely affected many schools, resulting in low enrollment rates. Fortunately, through the local government’s subsidy program, the city college, which only had 700 students the previous year, now boasts 2,600 students with a goal of reaching 5,000. “After tackling the first problem, we are now addressing the issue of classrooms and facilities. We lack school buildings,” she reveals, adding that they have sought additional support from the Department of Education (DepEd) and the House of Representatives (HoR) to ensure that they can accommodate all enrollees by next year. Caluag recognizes that the city faces a multitude of complex challenges. And her approach to finding solutions is instinctual, guided by her gut feelings and empathy. “Truth be told, I approach issues like a mother. It just so happens that I now have a bigger family, a bigger household, the whole of the City of San Fernando,” she chuckles. “I do not want to lead na hindi ginagamit ang puso ko (without using my heart). Since I see and understand what the people are going through and have gone through, I do have a genuine regard for their welfare.” One issue close to the mayor’s heart is the informal settlers along the river, whose presence contributes to flooding problems in the city. While the national government has launched the Sagip Ilog program, she is taking a compassionate approach. When planning for their evacuation and relocation, she asks, “How can we help them establish better lives once we relocate them? They need both housing and livelihood. As they are among the poorest of the poor, they earn less than minimum wage and will struggle to afford even a modest rent of Php1,000.” Similar to their approach to the dialysis center, the mayor and her fellow local leaders are hoping to find other means to provide for the affected residents’ needs. LEARNING FROM OTHERS Caluag’s leadership style is grounded on the lessons of the past, drawing on the successful programs and projects of previous local leaders while discarding ineffective approaches. She also emphasizes seeking expert advice to make informed decisions, acknowledging her limitations and the complexity of some issues. “I treat those who have served before or [other experienced leaders who] are still serving now as a mirror. I adopt the good and let go of the bad.” When it comes to more complicated issues such as the relocation program, Caluag makes sure that her decisions are made with the best of intentions and backed by appropriate expert opinion. “I don’t claim to know everything and do not overextend my expertise in areas I have no knowledge of, so I listen to the experts. We cannot act without understanding first,” she nods. Looking at the first half of her term, Caluag recognizes the various areas for improvement, but all in all, she feels accomplished in her team’s achievements. She states, “I’m proud because I’m the first female mayor, and we are part of the history of San Fernando. It’s been challenging, but I’ve seized this rare opportunity to demonstrate what I can do.” With the spotlight on her, she has chosen to focus people’s attention on important issues that demand action. “We want to be clear in our vision because we don’t want detractors to be given any opportunity to misconstrue what we are doing and what we have done as a result of weak leadership and governance. I hope the citizens appreciate my style of governance,” she shares. Caluag’s message to her constituents is one of unwavering commitment. “As long as I’m in the driver’s seat in the City of San Fernando, I will do my best to steer us in the right direction. I will not lead you to unstable ground, I will put you in a secure place. As mayor, I will serve like a mother and ensure that all your needs and worries are given attention and will be addressed through our programs. I will not leave you; I will not let you down.” "I’M PROUD BECAUSE I’M THE FIRST FEMALE MAYOR, AND WE ARE PART OF THE HISTORY OF SAN FERNANDO. IT’S BEEN CHALLENGING, BUT I’VE SEIZED THIS RARE OPPORTUNITY TO DEMONSTRATE WHAT I CAN DO."