< Back ALBAY BARANGAYS RECEIVE WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS The LEAGUE Publishing Company Inc. Across the province, AKO BICOL Party List led by Representative Elizaldy Co constructs water supply systems in various barangays. Water shortage is one of the biggest problems that plague the province, forcing residents to climb mountains or walk long distances in order to access clean water. They installed the water supply systems along the roadside to facilitate easier access, not only for the target communities but also the nearby sitios . Some of the barangays, such as Brgy. Humapon, Brgy. Maslog, Brgy. Bolo, and Brgy. Taysan, received Level-2 Solar Powered water systems. “ Dati kailangan pa namin umakyat ng bundok at maglakad ng mahigit isang kilometro para umigib ng tubig sa bukal at maglakad ulit ng isang kilometro pabalik ng bahay. Malaking tulongang ipinatayong patubig dito sa aming komunidad (Before, we had to climba mountain and walk a kilometerto get water from the spring then walk another kilometer back to our house. This water supply system they installed is a huge help to our community),” said Rachel Agripa,a resident of Sitio Polique in Brgy. Maslog. In one community college in Guinobatan, a Level 1 water supply system was installed to cater to the 2,000 evacuees currently residing in the school. They also conducted a geo- sensitivity survey in the school next door, Mauraro High School, to assess whether the water reservoir in the area is enough to support the 900-person evacuee population. “This project is a testament to our commitment to the welfare and development of our constituents. By addressing the long-standing water challenges, we are fostering a better quality of life for the residents and contributing to their overall well- being,” Co said in a statement. He added, “We are grateful for the cooperation and support of the community as we work towards creating positive change together.”

< Back A New Day for Barangay New Zaniga, Mandaluyong Located at the western side of Mandaluyong City, Barangay New Zaniga is proud to serve as a model barangay for the city. From its humble beginnings, today the barangay boasts of many accomplishments, owing to the joint efforts of the current Punong Barangay Liza Cruz, and her predecessor, Edwin E. Cruz. BY MAIELLE MONTAYRE PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL SORIANO Barangay New Zaniga is one of the 27 barangays of the City of Mandaluyong. Historically, the area used to be a low-lying marshland known as Saniga. The concretization of roads led to the urbanization of the neighboring areas, which was dubbed New Zaniga, while the original was called Old Zaniga. Today, the barangay has a land area of about 1.95 hectares, and a population of about 11,000 includingchildren/youth. During the day, there are more people because of transient students and workers. They have one private school, the Good Shepherd Christian School. MR. AND MRS. CRUZ Punong Barangay (PB) Liza Cruz was elected to position in May 2018. She was previously elected as a Barangay Kagawad (Barangay Councilor) and was awarded one of the most Oustanding Kagawads of the City in 2014. She was also the first Barangay Nutrition Action Officer (BNAO) of Mandaluyong City, under the leadership of then CNAO (City Nutrition Action Officer) and now Mayor Carmelita Abalos. Through her involvement as a helpmate of then PB Edwin Cruz, she became known throughout the barangay. She is a graduate of Silliman University with a degree in Political Science, and of Jose Rizal University/ Philippine Law School with a degree in law. “[My husband] has the street smarts, I have the attitude,” she jokes. “Only because my husband entered public service did I join, but there was no guarantee [that I would win]. My passport would have been my credibility as a public servant.” Edwin Cruz, the previous PB, was elected into position in 2007, and has since served three full terms. He is currently the head of the Anti-Smoke Belching Unit of Mandaluyong City (ASBU), a position of trust and confidence. Much of the groundwork in New Zaniga was laid by former PB Edwin Cruz, commencing with the construction of the existing barangay hall. “We only had a small office in our residence, which served as the barangay hall,” says Liza Cruz. It was where council meetings, assemblies, medical missions, and other barangay activities were held. “It was my primary goal to have our own barangay hall and without it, I would not have accomplished anything,” Edwin Cruz says. Thus, he vowed that he would not cut his hair until their barangay would have its own seat of government. An endeavor two years in the making, the barangay hall of New Zaniga was inaugurated on July 18, 2010. Then-Mayor Benjamin Abalos Jr. came to the event to personally cut off the long ponytail of PB Edwin Cruz. The four-storey structure is deemed to be a towering achievement for New Zaniga, evidence of perseverance towards realizing one’s dream. FEATHER IN THEIR CAP New Zaniga is the cleanest barangay as recognized by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA). The Barangay Power is an MMDA-sponsored competition for all the barangays in Metro Manila. New Zaniga beat out 1,565 barangays and became the grand champion. There are different criteria for the competition—based on size and budget of the barangay, solid waste management and recycling. “We are the gauge of the other barangays with regard to cleanliness,” Liza Cruz says. New Zaniga has its own street sweepers, aside from those hired by the city, who work until 10PM to maintain the cleanliness of the barangay. Click here to read full article for free

< Back MAYOR RAINIER ACERO LEOPANDO According to Mayor Rainier Acero Leopando of Siniloan, Laguna, the key to successful and sustainable development is going back to the basics—building better social services, instilling values, and listening to the people. BY HELEN HERNANE PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL SORIANO Every person has a guidance system—a moral code that they abide by and which serves as their compass in all actions. Politicians, public servants, and government workers have the same set of rules that guides their governance; and that is the law in all forms (international, national, and local). While priorities and values may slightly differ from person to person, for the most part, their principles are universal. And when it comes to serving the people, they believe in doing what is just and right. Siniloan Mayor Rainier Leopando, however, is unlike most politicians. While he holds the law and public service in high regard because of their importance, there is a higher cause that directs him. “[The Lord] is my guide in how I conduct myself. I follow His will so that others could follow and do the same,” he shares. “In the current political scenario, here [in Siniloan], our rivals became our allies because of love and respect.” A devout Roman Catholic, the 63-year-old first-time politician admits that he shouldn’t be entering politics at this age. But for Leopando, divine intervention was what pushed him to follow this path. “Trust God and do what we perceive are His plans for us. He brought me here and I have to do what needs to be done for Siniloan and its people,” he says with conviction. “Whatever decision you make, it must come from the heart. That’s what He taught us.” But running was not something that he thought of doing. With persistence and persuasion from the people of Siniloan, Leopando followed the vox populi. “Luckily, I won,” he recalls, smiling. Leopando knew, however, that winning the mayoral race was just the first step in a very arduous journey. Despite being a newcomer, he was not afraid of anything. “Fear is normal. But when you have God in your heart, you have nothing to fear. Come what may,” he says without hesitation. DEVELOPING VALUES When people hear the word “development,” they often think of advancements in technology, employing modern methods, and fancy technical equipment. Almost always, leaders call for “moving forward,” saying that this is the only way to go. While there is truth in the call to look ahead, Mayor Leopando has a different idea—moving forward entails also looking back. More specifically, referring back to our traditional ways and elders when it comes to value development. “Running Siniloan is everyone’s job,” Leopando stresses. “When I am done being its Mayor, I will entrust Siniloan to its youth. As [Jose Rizal] said, ‘The youth are the future of the country.’ But right now, while I’m here, I want to ensure that the youth are taught the right values. We need to guide them through the right way, while they’re young because it has a ripple effect.” Hopefully, the Mayor believes, the effect will be a better Siniloan—whether it’s an empowered populace, an active, values-driven youth, improved social services and infrastructure, or all of the above. With this goal in mind, Leopando appears to have the undisturbed optimism of every neophyte politician and, at the same time, the seasoned wisdom of a grandfather. This hopeful and positive mindset shone brightest during the pandemic. While most people focused on the worst of COVID-19, the ever-so-optimistic Mayor managed to find a silver lining. “The pandemic caused fear and it disrupted a lot of lives. But I have to look at the brighter side. Maybe this pandemic happened in order to straighten out the people,” he explains. “It’s a sign for us to go back to the old way of living—respecting elders, loving everyone as you would yourself, and offering yourself in service of your country.” It’s a thought that has crossed many minds. Because of this pandemic, people from all over the world have come home to live with their families, some for the first time in decades. It’s a chance to reconnect with family. By sheltering in place, it seems there is no other choice but to rely on each other and form a stronger bond in the face of the unknown. Through this crisis, the people of Siniloan have learned to band together and work towards coming through this pandemic stronger and wiser. For Leopando, they have been able to successfully mitigate the crisis thanks to the fact that they are a relatively small town, in size and population. Everyone, he explains, is family—even if not by blood but by bond. Everyone knows everyone in some way, as is the norm in small towns no matter the country. It is, therefore, no surprise that they had wholeheartedly accepted Mayor Leopando’s vision and leadership style. Because the people of Siniloan are, themselves, optimistic and positive despite hardships. This, the Mayor humbly explains, is the reason why they are not difficult to lead and guide. “Siniloanons are good people. Although I didn’t grow up here, I’ve always felt the kindness and love the people have for one another. In Metro Manila, when people have disagreements, it often ends up in a brawl. But here, we intervene and console one another. Even in politics, I’ve never heard anything go wrong here,” he shares. Siniloan Vice Mayor Patrick Ellis Go echoes these sentiments. “Mayor Leopando and I are from different parties. But when we were both elected as Vice Mayor and Mayor, we spoke and understood immediately that the focus should be on our work— helping the people of Siniloan. With that, our relationship grew better and now we’re friends,” Go shares. LOOKING UP The COVID-19 pandemic affected nearly every single town and city in the Philippines and Siniloan, Laguna was not spared. Leopando explains that their first case was confirmed on July 15, 2020. “At that point, the first wave was about to end. We were obliged to take in the OFWs and had them quarantined. Eventually, they were cleared. However, when they were about to leave the country again, they went to Manila to follow up on their applications. They were exposed to the virus along the way and when they came back to Siniloan, that’s when we got the the first confirmed COVID-19 case.” Fortunately, Siniloan managed to recover and started the new year well. As of January 5, 2021, they’ve recorded zero active COVID-19 cases. It was a record they maintained well, with but a slight increase of cases the following month. As of February 15, there were only two active cases. Siniloan is not completely COVID-free again, however, the low single-digit figure is impressive enough to warrant the question, “How did they do it?” When the outbreak started in January, Mayor Leopando immediately talked to private and public partners to determine isolation facilities. Disinfection was performed daily in public areas, and entry and exit points were closely monitored. “We’re one of the trade centers of Laguna and trade is our bread and butter. We couldn’t completely lock our borders. But we had to be strict and careful to avoid infection,” he explains. One of their main concerns ever since the start of the pandemic was food supply. The priority, he explains, has shifted back to basic needs. “The price of meat and vegetables was skyrocketing, that’s why we are focusing now on food production. By focusing on this, we generate more jobs and instill discipline in the people, because they are encouraged to grow their own food supply.” Together with the town agriculturist, the local government has led talks with private landowners who have undeveloped lands and has invited them to enter a JointVenture Agreement (JVA). Under this partnership, select crops will be planted on the land and when harvest time comes, the local government will purchase the produce. “We also process the crops so that we can generate jobs for people. The produce not only helps supply Siniloan’s needs, but also the nearby towns,” he shares. Apart from these urgent concerns, Mayor Leopando shares that the local government is also investing heavily in infrastructure. Last November 3, they started constructing the tourism center. The Mayor shared that they are also building an overlooking deck and bike lane. He is also looking to further promote Siniloan’s 22 waterfalls, including caves. Beyond tourism, they are also constructing a Class AA slaughterhouse to help the local market and a P25- million isolation facility in partnership with Red Cross. There is also another municipal hospital in the works, and the local government is also working on a landfill in Brgy. Laguio. With so many projects and developments underway, local and international investors are starting to notice the small town. In one of the barangays, investors are set to construct an extraction site for local lemons and calamansi fruits. The extract will then be exported abroad and this project is expected to boost Siniloan’s name in the national and global market. “Investors are starting to notice Siniloan. Someone is offering to produce milk here. He is planning on bringing 500 cows from New Zealand to our upland. The wide area there can be maximized as a grazeland. We have various projects from investors coming from Metro Manila, but they’re still being finalized,” he shares. Leopando admits he doesn’t actively seek out these investors; they just come to Siniloan for initial inspection and interest. “Honestly, it raises my confidence in our work. It lets us know that we’re on the right track. I believe that if we stay on course and work by His side, we’ll be okay,” he shares, displaying, once again, his brave optimism. He also shares that some people have offered their help to the small town. And for that, Leopando shares that they are extremely grateful. “I believe these projects will be successful because they will help their fellowmen,” he nods. Apart from projects, the local government is also busy with other forms of output. “We passed 900 resolutions in our first year,” Vice Mayor Go reveals. “This is because of the attitude of [Mayor Leopando]; he’s always pushing for output and he wants the Sangguniang Bayan to be completely involved.” The steady commitment of the entire local government and the constant encouragement from their leaders inspire people to contribute ideas. “I tell him my ideas because not everyone is given the chance to be a Mayor,” the UST Engineering professor shares. “If I’m selfish and keep my ideas to myself, then it’ll be a waste. When he agrees with my ideas, we put it to use.” Beyond the leaders, they also push each department to lead and be proactive. “We encourage them to develop their own projects, solutions, and ideas. From health, agriculture, finance, engineering, and more, they’re running their own departments,” the Vice Mayor proudly reveals. “We just guide them. When they’re empowered, the municipality becomes better.” OPEN COMMUNICATION With everything that is happening in the small town, the Mayor admits that his day becomes quite busy. In the morning, he regularly inspects the projects and then the rest of the day consists of meetings with potential investors, business owners, and Siniloanons with their personal concerns. No matter who it is, he stresses, his doors are always open. “As Mayor, their problems are your problems. You have to talk to them, console, praise, or enlighten them,” Mayor Leopando explains. “At night, supposedly your workload is light and you can relax. But when you are a public servant, the opposite is true. People still come to you with their problems and you have to patch things up, no matter the time.” Leopando likens being a mayor to being a guidance counselor. Instead of guiding students, you are offering solutions for fellow politicians, neighbors, and families. But he is not troubled in the very least. “Every problem can be solved with proper communication and understanding, as long as everyone is open. As the Bible says, ‘Harden not your heart.’” Vice Mayor Go agrees. “Everything can be fixed or straightened out if you talk about it. Forget politics; just do your work as a public servant,” he shares. When asked if he has plans to run for higher office in the near future, it seems that the Mayor is content on focusing on the small town of Siniloan. Leopando simply shakes his head, smiling. “Running for higher office is not for me. That’s for the youth,” he stresses. “Once I see that the projects we’ve started are up and running, then I’m ready to be with my grandchildren.” He reveals that he is not as close to his grandchildren as he would like. Initially, he planned on retiring early to do exactly that, but was called into politics. Leopando believes it is his obligation, a calling. But he also believes that he will be given enough time to spend with his family when he ultimately decides to retire for good. Whatever he manages to achieve as Mayor, for Leopando, he has already attained success. “Everyone’s ultimate objective should be to respect and love one another. We may not survive as long as we wish to, but if you follow the Lord, even if you go at a young age, you will still have fulfilled your role here on earth,” he explains. True to himself until the very end of the interview, when asked about his advice or message for the people of Siniloan, Mayor Leopando only has three words to say: “Love one another.”

NEWS & EVENTS The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) has officially unveiled the Philippine Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Reform Guidebook designed to streamline and simplify business processes across the country. During the event, ARTA also recognized its outstanding partners, especially from the local government units, for their efforts in steering modernization efforts across various sectors. This signifies a milestone in the initiatives for a more efficient, transparent, and business-friendly Philippines. LEAGUE Magazine proudly recognizes the outstanding local leaders who earned the trust of their constituents in the 2025 Midterm Elections. We look forward to seeing the impact of your leadership in action. Want to learn more about their governance journeys and visionary leadership? Check the links below to read their past features on League Magazine.

< Back 𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐀𝐘 𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐉𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐔𝐑𝐀 𝐏𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐓 𝐁𝐈𝐆𝐀𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌 Photos courtesy of Barangay Alijis Facebook page Locals receive one digital raffle entry in exchange for one kilogram of plastic or metal waste. Every raffle entry is equivalent to a chance to win five kilograms of rice. Residents should drop their recyclable collections at any Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) to participate. The program conducts a raffle draw and picks three lucky winners every week.

< Back 𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐀𝐘 𝐉𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐎𝐒 𝐒𝐊 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐁𝐔𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐖𝐇𝐄𝐄𝐋𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐒, 𝐐𝐔𝐀𝐃 𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐄𝐒 Photos courtesy of SK Barangay Jereos, La Paz Facebook page True to her reputation as a phenomenal athlete, volleyball superstar Alyssa Valdez once again demonstrated her gratitude to the community by sharing her time, skills, and efforts with aspiring volleyball players, to express her appreciation for the sport that brought her so much success. The three-day Alyssa Valdez Youth Volleyball Camp (AVYVC) was open to young volleyball players ages 9 to 12. Valdez launched this camp, knowing that this type of activity would considerably help uncover and refine the skills and talents of aspiring athletes who want to be like her in the future. Herself a product of volleyball camps, Valdez recalls that she and her fellow aspiring athletes back in the day had little exposure to volleyball and volleyball camps. “You don’t know where to go, and you don’t have enough experience to become a good volleyball player,” the Filipina sports star explains. She credits her coaches, who gave her one-on-one instruction, for her outstanding performances in her games, which grabbed the hearts of many Filipino volleyball fans. The Pasig City government and Allianz PNB sponsored the activity, which took place at the Rizal High School Gymnasium, Pasig City, from March 24 to 26, 2023. It was Valdez’s way of thanking the coaches who taught her the abilities that wowed many Filipinos in their games. Along with other experienced coaches, Valdez taught over 80 young aspiring volleyball players. “I will show them how to start from scratch because I want them to learn that there are those who believe in what they can do,” Valdez promises. This is not the first time the Creamline Cool Smashers team captain has demonstrated her compassion. She once raised funds for healthcare workers in the Philippines by raffling off her sneakers. In 2019, she and now Japanese B.League player Kiefer Ravena founded the Phenom Elite Training Academy, a training facility for promising young athletes. Their vision was to help prepare athletes for national and international competitions. Regarded as the face of Philippine volleyball, Valdez started carving a name for herself as a member of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Tigress Cubs volleyball team. She later led the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Lady Eagles to a number of University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) titles, in the process earning a string of individual awards. Valdez’s stellar skills made her a certified star at the professional level. She has also represented the Philippines in international competitions, including the 2008 Asian Youth Championship, 2015 Asian U-23 Championship, and this year’s Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

< Back Leading the Way All for Public Service. Barangay Captain Chris Aguilar is the leader of all barangay captains in 16 areas in Parañaque. The post affords him an ex-officio seat in the city council, where he is able to take part in drafting and shaping legislation for the city. BY JOYCE REYES-AGUILA PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL SORIANO Marcelo Green Barangay Captain Christopher Aguilar was certain early on in his life that he wanted to be in public service. The former student council president began to serve his community as Sanggunian Kabataan (SK) Chairman from 1996 until 2002. “When I was with SK, I recall seeing students who had to endure long walks just to get to their schools in other barangays,” the Parañaque-based leader remembers. “That is why during my first term in office, one of my priorities was to to build a school in Barangay Marcelo Green.” Through the help of the barangay council, they were able to buy the land. They then applied for a loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines for purchase of land so that it can be endorsed to the LGU for construction. “Our IRA (Internal Revenue Allotment) from the national government helps us pay for our amortization.” Construction of the school building was a project of Parañaque Mayor Edwin L. Olivarez. The school is now operational for grade school and high school students. “Now, they no longer have to take long walks,” he says. “And we even offer free shuttle services to bring the children to school.” LEADING A DRUG-FREE COMMUNITY As his dream establishment for his constituents rose, Aguilar also pursued a more demanding role in the barangay. Aside from being barangay captain, he was also elected President of Liga ng mga Barangays in the city in 2016. The group is under the Liga ng mga Barangay ng Pilipinas, an umbrella organization of barangay leaders in the country. In this capacity, Aguilar heads all barangay captains in 16 areas in Parañaque. The post affords him an ex-officio seat in the city council, where he is able to take part in drafting and shaping legislation for the city. A major accomplishment the San Beda College alumnus is proud of is how the Liga’s actions have supported the Duterte administration’s Oplan Tokhang (war on drugs) operations. In a speech delivered at the City Hall Grounds earlier this year, he shared that he believes the campaign is effective in curbing illegal drug operations in the city. To further support the national drug policy, Aguilar discussed an ordinance passed to the city council that aims to promote a drug-free workplace in the barangay. “It will mandate all barangay officials and employees to be subjected to random drug-testing twice a year,” he explains, "We have motorcycle riding units in the West Service Road to allow our officials to patrol the area. More importantly, it will allow them to be able to assist should there be any accidents. We always work with the PNP personnel. Our tanods are always instructed to respond to incidents with a police officer." While also underscoring the importance of having good working relations with the Philippine National Police (PNP). Aguilar is also known to be active in implementing MASA MASID (Mamamayang Ayaw Sa Anomalya, Mamamayang Ayaw sa Ilegal na Droga), a communitybased program for the prevention of illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality in barangays. The initiative of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) was launched last September 2016 and seeks to bring communities together against illegal drugs. MASA MASID is pillared under four areas, according to the DILG official page: information and education campaign in communities for government programs against corruption, illegal drugs and criminality; creation of a reporting mechanism on illegal drugs-related activities; formulation of community-based rehabilitation programs; and revival of the spirit of volunteerism by creating a volunteer-friendly atmosphere for organizations that wish to be partners for change. “In our barangay, we have a moral recovery program for drug returnees every weekend for a period of 12 weeks,” he shares. “We encourage them not to use drugs anymore. We provide livelihood programs and training for food processing, reflexology, candle-making, and the like.” The moral recovery program for drug returnees is in coordination with church organizations within the barangay. SAFETY FIRST Maintaining peace and order is also aligned to Aguilar’s goal of providing a safe community for his constituents. To date, his office has professionalized the barangay tanods (officers) by providing them with the proper equipment. “They have uniforms, they have name labels to make them identifiable,” he reports. “We give them self-defense training and ensure that we deploy vehicles for their peace and order functions. “We also have motorcycle riding units in the West Service Road to allow our officials to patrol the area. More importantly, it will allow them to assist should there be any accidents. We always work with the PNP personnel. Our tanods are always instructed to respond to incidents with a police officer. This way, in case it is a police matter, they are already there. And if it’s a barangay matter, our officials are also present,” the Barangay Captain elaborates. Marcelo Green also has closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in strategic locations to enable their team to respond to any incident immediately. Aside from CCTV, electrical lamp posts and solar lights were installed in major thoroughfares, parks, and other key sites in the barangay. The Barangay is fully equipped to serve its constituents with an accesible Barangay Hall, Health Center, Lying-in Center, joint Tanod and PNP Headquarters, Senior Citizens Center, Livelihood Center, ongoing development of Ecopark, Rescue Vehicles, ambulance, firetruck, and dump truck. In his role as an ex-officio member of the Parañaque City Council, Aguilar was instrumental is passing an ordinance that provides free legal assistance to barangay officers, barangay tanods, and members of the police force. “We want to be able to support them in case they face legal problems stemming from their official functions,” Aguilar, who previously worked with petrol corporation Chevron Philippines, Inc., says. “I consider it one of my major accomplishments as a member of the council.” EFFICIENT AND BUSINESS-FRIENDLY Aguilar shared several ordinances that have been passed in the council in different areas. “We have formed the Business One-Stop Shop to enable our citizens to have easier transactions in our city,” says Aguilar who has worked with multinational companies and is now a successful entrepreneur. Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) is not a City Ordinance; it is a directive of President Duterte and is fully supported by the 16 barangays. “Parañaque has been awarded as one of the most business friendly cities in the metro and we aim to also provide that ease to our citizens.” Other ordinances that Aguilar reported are the proposed establishment of a Bikeway Department under the Traffic Management Office, a local Juvenile Intervention Plan of Parañaque City, and the creation of a Parañaque City Green Card and Hospitalization and Health Care Benefit. “It has also been an honor to have worked with Councilor Roselle Nava-Tan, my co-sponsor, in the ordinance that provides help to our indigent constituents who have breast cancer,” he mentions during the speech. The said ordinance is in support to one of the advocacies of Parañaque First Lady Janet A. Olivarez. Aguilar also supports plans for a milk-feeding program for daycare center students and a dedicated medical desk for check-ups of persons arrested. “We have accomplished a lot because of the support and help of the members of the council,” he adds. The public servant is also focused on a third straight term in his barangay. “I have no plans of running for higher office yet because it’s been very fulfilling to be a barangay captain. We have programs that we still want to implement. “When you do good to others, the world will be good to you. Public service is a way for me to do good for the community. It is really a passion that allows you to help others and create projects that become your legacy”.Marcelo Green Barangay Captain Christopher Aguilar was certain early on in his life that he wanted to be in public service. The former student council president began to serve his community as Sanggunian Kabataan (SK) Chairman from 1996 until 2002. “When I was with SK, I recall seeing students who had to endure long walks just to get to their schools in other barangays,” the Parañaque-based leader remembers. “That is why during my first term in office, one of my priorities was to to build a school in Barangay Marcelo Green.” Through the help of the barangay council, they were able to buy the land. They then applied for a loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines for purchase of land so that it can be endorsed to the LGU for construction. “Our IRA (Internal Revenue Allotment) from the national government helps us pay for our amortization.” Construction of the school building was a project of Parañaque Mayor Edwin L. Olivarez. The school is now operational for grade school and high school students. “Now, they no longer have to take long walks,” he says. “And we even offer free shuttle services to bring the children to school.” LEADING A DRUG-FREE COMMUNITY As his dream establishment for his constituents rose, Aguilar also pursued a more demanding role in the barangay. Aside from being barangay captain, he was also elected President of Liga ng mga Barangays in the city in 2016. The group is under the Liga ng mga Barangay ng Pilipinas, an umbrella organization of barangay leaders in the country. In this capacity, Aguilar heads all barangay captains in 16 areas in Parañaque. The post affords him an ex-officio seat in the city council, where he is able to take part in drafting and shaping legislation for the city. A major accomplishment the San Beda College alumnus is proud of is how the Liga’s actions have supported the Duterte administration’s Oplan Tokhang (war on drugs) operations. In a speech delivered at the City Hall Grounds earlier this year, he shared that he believes the campaign is effective in curbing illegal drug operations in the city. To further support the national drug policy, Aguilar discussed an ordinance passed to the city council that aims to promote a drug-free workplace in the barangay. “It will mandate all barangay officials and employees to be subjected to random drug-testing twice a year,” he explains, "We have motorcycle riding units in the West Service Road to allow our officials to patrol the area. More importantly, it will allow them to be able to assist should there be any accidents. We always work with the PNP personnel. Our tanods are always instructed to respond to incidents with a police officer." While also underscoring the importance of having good working relations with the Philippine National Police (PNP). Aguilar is also known to be active in implementing MASA MASID (Mamamayang Ayaw Sa Anomalya, Mamamayang Ayaw sa Ilegal na Droga), a community based program for the prevention of illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality in barangays. The initiative of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) was launched last September 2016 and seeks to bring communities together against illegal drugs. MASA MASID is pillared under four areas, according to the DILG official page: information and education campaign in communities for government programs against corruption, illegal drugs and criminality; creation of a reporting mechanism on illegal drugs-related activities; formulation of community-based rehabilitation programs; and revival of the spirit of volunteerism by creating a volunteer-friendly atmosphere for organizations that wish to be partners for change. “In our barangay, we have a moral recovery program for drug returnees every weekend for a period of 12 weeks,” he shares. “We encourage them not to use drugs anymore. We provide livelihood programs and training for food processing, reflexology, candle-making, and the like.” The moral recovery program for drug returnees is in coordination with church organizations within the barangay. SAFETY FIRST Maintaining peace and order is also aligned to Aguilar’s goal of providing a safe community for his constituents. To date, his office has professionalized the barangay tanods (officers) by providing them with the proper equipment. “They have uniforms, they have name labels to make them identifiable,” he reports. “We give them self-defense training and ensure that we deploy vehicles for their peace and order functions. “We also have motorcycle riding units in the West Service Road to allow our officials to patrol the area. More importantly, it will allow them to assist should there be any accidents. We always work with the PNP personnel. Our tanods are always instructed to respond to incidents with a police officer. This way, in case it is a police matter, they are already there. And if it’s a barangay matter, our officials are also present,” the Barangay Captain elaborates. Marcelo Green also has closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in strategic locations to enable their team to respond to any incident immediately. Aside from CCTV, electrical lamp posts and solar lights were installed in major thoroughfares, parks, and other key sites in the barangay. The Barangay is fully equipped to serve its constituents with an accesible Barangay Hall, Health Center, Lying-in Center, joint Tanod and PNP Headquarters, Senior Citizens Center, Livelihood Center, ongoing development of Ecopark, Rescue Vehicles, ambulance, firetruck, and dump truck. In his role as an ex-officio member of the Parañaque City Council, Aguilar was instrumental is passing an ordinance that provides free legal assistance to barangay officers, barangay tanods, and members of the police force. “We want to be able to support them in case they face legal problems stemming from their official functions,” Aguilar, who previously worked with petrol corporation Chevron Philippines, Inc., says. “I consider it one of my major accomplishments as a member of the council.” EFFICIENT AND BUSINESS-FRIENDLY Aguilar shared several ordinances that have been passed in the council in different areas. “We have formed the Business One-Stop Shop to enable our citizens to have easier transactions in our city,” says Aguilar who has worked with multinational companies and is now a successful entrepreneur. Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) is not a City Ordinance; it is a directive of President Duterte and is fully supported by the 16 barangays. “Parañaque has been awarded as one of the most business friendly cities in the metro and we aim to also provide that ease to our citizens.” Other ordinances that Aguilar reported are the proposed establishment of a Bikeway Department under the Traffic Management Office, a local Juvenile Intervention Plan of Parañaque City, and the creation of a Parañaque City Green Card and Hospitalization and Health Care Benefit. “It has also been an honor to have worked with Councilor Roselle Nava-Tan, my co-sponsor, in the ordinance that provides help to our indigent constituents who have breast cancer,” he mentions during the speech. The said ordinance is in support to one of the advocacies of Parañaque First Lady Janet A. Olivarez. Aguilar also supports plans for a milk-feeding program for daycare center students and a dedicated medical desk for check-ups of persons arrested. “We have accomplished a lot because of the support and help of the members of the council,” he adds. The public servant is also focused on a third straight term in his barangay. “I have no plans of running for higher office yet because it’s been very fulfilling to be a barangay captain. We have programs that we still want to implement. “When you do good to others, the world will be good to you. Public service is a way for me to do good for the community. It is really a passion that allows you to help others and create projects that become your legacy”.

MAYOR HERBERT BAUTISTA TABLE OF CONTENTS DOWNLOAD FULL ISSUE HERE FOR FREE! FEATURES ASEC. KRIS ABLAN Sending a Message READ MORE FEATURES COUNCILOR RAISSA LAUREL-SUBIJANO Life with No Limits READ MORE FEATURES THE HEROES OF MARAWI Courage at the Front Line READ MORE REGULARS ROUND UP READ MORE REGULARS BARANGAY FORUM READ MORE REGULARS SPOTLIGHT Food for the Holidays READ MORE REGULARS CALENDAR OF EVENTS READ MORE REGULARS SECOND IN COMMAND: Vice President Leni Robredo READ MORE REGULARS FINANCE & ECONOMY Decoding IRA READ MORE REGULARS SOLUTIONS & INNOVATION: Green Antz READ MORE REGULARS SOLUTIONS & INNVATION: Waste to Energy READ MORE GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW COVER: VICE MAYOR JOY BELMONTE The Next Step READ MORE GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW BRGY. BEL-AIR The Value of Progress READ MORE GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW LAPU-LAPU, CEBU Historic Resort City READ MORE GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW ANGONO, RIZAL Art & Soul READ MORE GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW PAMPANGA The Spirit of Christmas READ MORE

BACK BY THE PEOPLE, FOR THE PEOPLE O n April 14, 2021, Ana Patricia Non set up a kariton on Maginhawa St. in Quezon City (QC) and filled it with goods and vegetables. Above the bamboo cart was a sign— “Magbigay ayon sa kakayahan, kumuha batay sa pangangailangan (Give according to your ability, take according to your need).” Non posted the initiative online and soon enough, the social media post went viral. Within days, hundreds of community pantries were set up all over the country. And as of writing, there are 1,650 recognized pantries. Needless to say, the initiative is a massive success. But it’s not without its struggles. COLOR OF THE PANTRY Days after the first community pantry began, Non was shocked when she saw a post that tagged the movement as a project by the “communist party.” The post also stated that the organizers, especially Non, were members of the New People’s Army (NPA), the military wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). Moreover, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) also claimed that the pantries were merely a “front for rebel recruitment.” I know there will be a point when people will experience donation fatigue. It’s a pandemic. But, ultimately, I dream that there will be a community pantry in every corner of the Philippines. Non shares that while there were policemen around the area of the pantry, she thought they were there in good faith. At some point, however, they asked for her cellphone number and what organization she belonged to. “By then, I still didn’t think they were profiling me. I guess I was in denial. But then I went home and saw the social media posts. So, we had to stop because I didn’t feel safe,” Non shared. “I was furious because they didn’t at least confirm or research if these allegations were true.” Among the vocal critics of the movement is Presidential Communications (PCOO) Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy Partosa. Non reveals that they belong to the same organization in the University of the Philippines—UP Mountaineers. “That organization is a very tight knit community and we can contact one another. We may not know each other directly, but she can verify with our org-mates,” she stresses. “A part of me wanted to just ignore the red-tagging. But, of course, you can’t do that because plenty of people have died because of [red-tagging]. I have to take [the allegations] seriously, but this doesn’t mean that I want to let go of the movement. I just have to realign and remember why I started this. We do this because there are people who need help, not because we want to please critics.” NTF-ELCAC spokesperson Lt. General Antonio Parlade Jr. has also voiced his opinion regarding Non— “Alam mo, isang tao lang ‘yan, ‘di ba? Si Ana Patricia, di ba? Same with Satan. Si Satan, binigyan ng apple si Eve. Doon lang nagsimula ‘yun (You know, it’s only one person. Ana Patricia [Non], right? Same with Satan. Satan gave an apple to Eve and that’s where everything started).” On April 25, Parlade and Badoy were ordered to desist from making statements regarding community pantries. National Security Adviser and NTF-ELCAC vice chair Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said that the gag order was made “to emphasize that NTF-ELCAC or Gen. Parlade or Usec. Badoy were not against bayanihan or community pantries.” He also clarified that the anti-communist insurgency council will “support, observe, and assist CPs (community pantries), as does the whole of government.” Several senators also voiced their support. In a joint statement, senators Franklin Drilon, Sherwin Gatchalian, Ralph Recto, Leila de Lima, Risa Hontiveros, Nancy Binay, Grace Poe, and Francis Pangilinan called for an end to the “harassment and intimidation” experienced by the organizers and volunteers of the movement. “The profiling of organizers must stop. It puts people’s lives in danger,” the statement said. “Hunger is the problem and these relief efforts by private citizens should be encouraged.” Non also thanked QC Mayor Joy Belmonte for her assurance that the organizers of the Maginhawa community pantry would be protected. While their situation in Maginhawa is relatively safer due, in part, to Belmonte’s statement, Non laments that other pantries still have safety concerns. “I’ve been trying to coordinate with the local government. But I’m frustrated because I shouldn’t have to be worried about this because it is the job of the local government to ensure that their citizens are safe. If we have to ask for assistance and security, then there’s something wrong,” she points out. Apart from red-tagging, Non reveals that she has also been receiving a lot of death threats. For now, she will focus on making sure that the pantry and the movement is running smoothly. “I’m not going to forget these threats and I’ll file a case someday. But for now, I don’t want to focus my energy on that because these people who line up every day are my priority.” MODERN BAYANIHAN The UP Fine Arts graduate is also eternally grateful for those who started their own community pantries, saying the movement would not be what it is if people had not responded to the call to help. “Because of all of you, the community is together again. Apart from food security, people are brought together,” she says. “This pandemic, we have been ‘social distancing.’ But because of the pantries, we are [physically] distancing, but with social solidarity.” She also notes how the pantry is changing the way people think of fellow Filipinos. “Filipinos often have this notion that we don’t have discipline and if it’s for free, then people will get it all. But now we’re changing the narrative. Delay the judgement and listen to the people. Don’t pull each other down. After all, the spirit of bayanihan is in all of us,” she urges. Community pantries are not a novel concept. Non shares that her sister Jenny, who is living in the United States and does mutual aid, suggested she start a food pantry with the goods that she had collected through ayudas and grocery shopping. While this Western program kickstarted the initiative, Non elaborates that generosity and unity are inherent in Filipinos. “In the province, neighbors often exchange crops and goods. The core is very much the same and it’s just something that we need to revive, especially now that many are struggling.” The movement, however, is far from perfect. In the Maginhawa pantry, hundreds used to line up every day to get food. Because of health and safety concerns, the team decided to decentralize the system. The original pantry in Maginhawa now acts as a drop-off point for donations and goods, which is then distributed to over 25 pantries. “This new system is much better because it brings the goods closer to the people. Through this solidarity network, we plan on opening more distribution hubs across the country,” Non shares. “For now, this is the plan. But in the long run, I know there will be a point when people will experience donation fatigue. It’s a pandemic and we understand because the motto is to ‘give according to your ability.’ But, ultimately, I dream that there will be a community pantry in every corner of the Philippines. It doesn’t have to be fancy or huge, but at least it’s a place where people can go if they need help.” While there is no community pantry on every street yet, it is undeniable that the movement is already a huge help to the Filipino people. Some pantry organizers have shared their stories and insights regarding their local community. COMING TOGETHER Zone 3 Rizal, Lapaz, Iloilo City “We hope to ease the hunger of the people within our community as food is a basic necessity. Knowing, for at least one day, that they will not be hungry this is already a huge help,” Iloilo Pride Team chairperson Irish Inocento shares. Inocento, like many community pantries organizers across the country, began the pantry because they were inspired by the one in Maginhawa. She says that the initiative, with its signature call-to-action phrase, also empowers the marginalized sector because it is not merely charity. “They realize that they also need to think of their fellowmen and not just focus on their own wellbeing,” she says. Like the one in Quezon City, Inocento reveals that they also experienced struggles. “We also weren’t spared from the red-tagging. Tarpaulins containing our faces and names were placed in public spaces, which caused severe mental and emotional anguish.” Fortunately, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas assured them that LEAGUE 23 community pantries don’t need permits to operate. “You do not need my permission to help your fellow Ilonggos,” Treñas said. With the encouragement of the local government, the Iloilo Pride Team continues their operations. But at times, the experience can be bittersweet. “One time, an old lady was in the queue. We asked her if there was another person in their family who could line up instead. She said that they were only two in the family and the other one is blind. The breadwinner was their nephew who worked in Dubai. But then he died last year,” Inocento shares. BEYOND CHARITY Mandaluyong City For Con Paminiano, the feeling of desperation, frustration, and anger of the people towards their predicament is “very palpable.” But, at the same time, there are individuals who help renew people’s faith in humanity. “One lolo simply took a single tomato and said ‘Sapat na ‘to (This is enough).’ He said there are more people in line and they may need the goods more [than he does],” the pantry organizer shares. “I saw him again after that and his mindset was very much the same. He was such a pure soul.” Unfortunately, their pantry was shut down by the local barangay because of crowd control issues. Currently, Paminiano is working on an “online community pantry” and is coordinating with independent riders and tricycle drivers to pull off the project. Roadblocks, barriers, and difficulties will always be there, she stresses. But what keeps her going are the people who rely on the aid. HOPE IN HUMANITY Angat, Bulacan In Bulacan, a community pantry was started by Hiraya ng Pag-asa or Vision of Hope, an organization formed by 26 volunteers. Its head organizers are Clarence Alba, Joaquinn Jader, Federico Baldoza, and Rafael Flores. Flores and Alba were the ones who started the organization because they were inspired by the original pantry in Quezon City. Their non-political, nonpartisan organization aims to prove that there is still “hope in humanity and to show that Filipinos still look out for their fellow Filipinos.” Their motto, “Mula sa masa, para sa masa (By the people, for the people),” stresses that their organization is merely an instrument of modern bayanihan, not a charitable group. Like other pantries, they also have their fair share of hardships and it is also difficult for them to hear the stories of the people. “But we know what we feel for them is just a fraction of their daily struggles, so we do our best to broaden our reach and try to help more,” Alba says.

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