< Back CAVITE 2ND DISTRICT CONGRESSWOMAN LANI MERCADO-REVILLA BY LAKAMBINI BAUTISTA CAVITE SECOND DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE LANI MERCADO-REVILLA’S MATERNAL APPROACH TO POLITICS IS A REMINDER THAT GENUINE CARE AND EMPATHY CAN BE POWERFUL CATALYSTS FOR POSITIVE CHANGE. When Lani Mercado-Revilla, then a mayoralty candidate, experienced defeat in the 2001 elections in Bacoor, Cavite, it prompted her to reflect on whether public service was truly her calling. “I felt it’s for the male sector. It’s not for me,” she recalls to LEAGUE. Being the optimistic person that she is, the actress and mother of seven looked at her loss as a blessing in disguise, and instead focused on her showbiz career and family life. But then the call for public service knocked again towards the end of that decade when her brother-in-law, Strike Revilla, won as mayor of Bacoor in 2007. “It was one of the dreams of our constituents in Bacoor to transform the municipality into a city because it will bring progress,” Mercado-Revilla says. Mayor Strike and the barangay chairpersons convinced her to run as congresswoman of the district of Bacoor in the 2010 elections to push this agenda. So when Mercado-Revilla won the 2010 congressional race, she made the passage of House Bill No. (HB) 521, which sought to convert the Municipality of Bacoor into a city, as her top priority. Her husband, Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr., authored the Senate version of the bill, which was signed into law as Republic Act No. 10160. This act created the City of Bacoor and was ratified in a plebiscite on June 23, 2012. Those were exciting times for the neophyte lawmaker because while performing her duties as congresswoman, she also decided to go back to school and finish her college education through ETEEAP, or the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program. This alternative learning program is geared towards working professionals who have not enrolled for or completed their bachelor’s degree. “Hindi ko natapos ang college education ko (I wasn’t able to finish college). But it was my dream to finish college because it’s an unfinished business for me. It was the dream of my parents for me to graduate college, but then I got married early, entered show business,” she says. In 2016, she became the first lady mayor of the City of Bacoor, a post she held until 2022. BACK IN CONGRESS Today, Mercado-Revilla has returned to Congress, picking up where she left off, after her victory as congresswoman of the Second District of Cavite in the 2022 elections. “I know I have some unfinished business as mayor, and the former congressman, Strike Revilla, who’s now mayor, also has unfinished business in our district. So whatever his unfunded and as such, unfinished projects were, I am now pushing for,” she says. Mercado-Revilla cites the delivery of health services as one of her key priorities as a lawmaker. Which is why she, together with her sons Rep. Bryan Revilla and Rep. Jolo Revilla III, filed HB 02534, increasing the bed capacity of Southern Tagalog Regional Hospital in the City of Bacoor. It started out as a district hospital, where the land it was built on was donated by her late father-in-law, Ramon Revilla, Sr. Recently, Senator Revilla, together with the Department of Health (DOH), provided funding for the construction of another building, named after her fatherin-law. “This expansion aims to increase the hospital’s capacity by adding more beds. We are gradually expanding both the number of beds and the range of services offered because this facility serves not only the entire Region IV-A, but sometimes even patients from Manila. It is crucial to secure adequate funding for the continued development of the hospital, along with the enhancement of its workforce,” says Mercado-Revilla. She has also filed a bill aimed at establishing nutrition departments across the Philippines. She believes that malnutrition is a pressing issue that we must address. And while we have the National Nutrition Council (NNC) in place, she believes that further support is needed to effectively implement its projects at the grassroots level. “We need to focus on this effort, work hand in hand with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Agriculture (DA),” she says. Education is also a paramount focus in her legislative agenda. A project that holds a special place in her heart is the establishment of the Bacoor National Science High School, a commitment she made when she first took office in 2010. “I’m delighted to share that we have already signed a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for the piece of land that they own. “They will collaborate closely with Department of Education (DepEd)-Bacoor, and adjacent to it, there will be Cavite State University (CvSU) Bacoor, an extension of CvSU specializing in science and engineering subjects,” she adds. The lady legislator is happy to share that upon her return to Congress, her office pushed for the conversion of Bacoor National High School - Tabing Dagat into an independent high school, bearing the name Mariano Gomes National High School. She co-authored the said bill with Rep. Bryan, Rep. Romulo Roman, and Rep. Rizaldy Co. Establishing schools within the Bacoor district posed a huge challenge, given the number of prerequisites involved, including securing the deed of donation for the land, enacting local ordinances by the local government and local school board, and ensuring proper budget allocations. So she’s pleased that this goal has finally been realized. Years of experience in public service have taught Revilla-Mercado that being a public servant is “a very selfless profession” and popularity alone doesn’t secure election victories. “You have to immerse yourself in the everyday life of your district, of your constituents,” she says. “We have two residences—one in Alabang and one in Bacoor—and when I was mayor, I really stayed in Bacoor, so dama ko ang traffic, dama ko ang baha, dama ko lahat. So ‘pag may sunog nandiyan kaagad ako. Dapat talaga ramdam mo ang problema ng constituents mo (I know the traffic situation, I know the concerns regarding flooding, I know their experiences. So when there is a fire incident, I make it a point to show up. A public official should really know the concerns of her constituents).” From her late father-in-law, Revilla, Sr., she learned to “Never settle for good, always aim for the best.” This principle continues to drive her actions, pushing her to give her best in everything she does. Serving as a legislator and formerly as mayor of the city of Bacoor, MercadoRevilla realized that collaboration between the congressional representative and the local government is crucial. “It is a major factor that we are in one team—the mayor of the city of Bacoor, myself, together with extra help from the Senate through Senator Bong Revilla, we are able to work hand in hand in terms of development and progress in our district and not only in our district, but also the whole province,” she says.

< Back Embracing Change ALL ROADS LEAD TO PAKIL Pakil, one of the country’s oldest towns, enters a renaissance of unprecedented growth through good governance BY JOSELITO M. EBRO JR. PHOTOS BY DANIEL SORIANO Athree-hour drive east of Manila leads to a town in Laguna with two noncontiguous parts. Separated by Laguna de Bay, the town shares a boundary with the province of Rizal in the west, while the other shares a border with Quezon province and other municipalities in Laguna. “It’s like I am the mayor of two municipalities. I have to travel 30 to 35 minutes through the towns of Pangil, Siniloan, Famy, and Mabitac before I get to the other side,” says Vincent Soriano, the young mayor of the town of Pakil. Despite the obstacle, the municipality has exceeded expectations as it breaks records in good governance. “A small town is like a blank canvas on which you can build your own Rome,” says Mayor Soriano. And true enough, it seems Pakil has found its own Augustus. Soriano is a seasoned public servant, who joined politics when he was 18, a year before graduating cum laude from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. He is an educator and a published writer, and through his leadership, he hopes to bring Pakil to its Golden Age. STEEPED IN HISTORY Pakil is one of the oldest towns in the Philippines. First organized in 1588 as a visita of Paete, it became an independent town on May 12, 1676. Since then, the town has served as a home for people who love to express themselves through their culture and tradition. At the heart of Pakil’s poblacion is their old-aged church of San Pedro de Alcantara. This baroque church has served to represent the rich heritage and culture of Pakilenyos. Pakil is also known for being the site of one of the oldest festivals in the country. Each year, around the months of April and May, Pakilenyos honor the Nuestra Señora de los Dolores de Turumba. A celebration which started in 1788, people dance their hearts out to express gratitude to the miraculous Virgin Mary. Due to the popularity of the festival, neighboring municipalities and cities participate and send their best brass bands to compete. “Imagine, Pakil is a small town yet we have three brass bands,” shares Soriano. This love for music is apparent among Pakil’s people, and exemplified through the works of National Artist Marcelo Adonay, a Pakilenyo and an icon of church music in the country. But culture and sports are not the only areas that Pakilenyos are proud of. LEAP IN COMPETITIVENESS Pakil grew rapidly in 2017. Based on the National Competitive Index of all municipalities in the country, Pakil ranked 90th in the fifth class municipality category, a significant jump from its previous rank of 378. Measured through key indicators such as economic dynamism, government efficiency, and infrastructure, Pakil has scored well in areas pertaining to good public service complete with the presence of investment promotion unit, availability of basic utilities, and efficient land use plan. Through efficient government service, the town has secured additional investments such as the presence of a gasoline station, cockpit arena, and a hollow block factory. This big step in Pakil’s competitiveness was due to the good mix of clear vision, technical competence, and “a good sense of morality,” which the local government leaders and employees of Pakil aspire to follow. PLANNING FOR CHANGE Mayor Soriano believes that the huge leap in competitiveness is a direct result of good governance initiatives he sought to implement as soon as he sat as the local executive. After almost two years since he won the mayoralty race, government transactions in Pakil are now computerized, making public service quick and efficient. It also helped in the promotion of more businesses and in turn generated more livelihood for the people. Law enforcement was also modernized. The Pakil police force is now equipped with body cameras using the same technology found in the US and Israel to ensure better public service and security. Pakil is also preparing for the implementation of the MARINA project, which will soon connect Pakil with Taguig by boat via the Laguna Lake. Through this project, the cost of traveling from Pakil to major cities in the National Capital Region will be reduced. The town also joins other cities that transferred their public service operations to a government center to better address the needs of their constituents. The service provided by this hub will be extended through various branches stationed in major areas around town. As the recent projects of the LGU exemplify a harmonious partnership with all concerned parties, Mayor Soriano emphasizes that good relations with the public and private sector is also key in the promotion of numerous services for the people. The government is responsible for securing a conducive environment for investment and economic growth. Once achieved, the civil society and the business sector would cover the cost needed to execute numerous projects. Efficient planning has also played a prominent role in Pakil’s growth. Soriano, who adheres to the value of planning over unprepared action, puts emphasis on the roles of the public officials in promoting a mindset of foresight. TRANSFORMING THE OLD, EMBRACING THE NEW Soriano admits that the perspective of the people presents a stumbling block in his leadership. The LGU desires to widen the horizon for Pakilenyos by changing their mindset and removing their passiveness. They need to believe in the idea that even a small town can accomplish great things. “Hindi dapat tayo ang susunod, tayo ang susundan. Hindi dapat tayo ang tutulad, tayo ang tutularan (We shouldn’t follow, we should lead. We shouldn’t copy, we should be emulated),” says Soriano. Yet, amidst all the progress that has been changing the landscape of Pakil, Mayor Soriano knows that this could never happen at the expense of Pakil’s rich history and heritage. “How can we accomplish the challenges of the future if we cannot appreciate our past?” he asks. To achieve this goal, one of the priority projects envisioned by the LGU of Pakil is the construction of a heritage plaza. This public space would serve as the heart of art and culture in Pakil. The heritage plaza will feature monuments, civic buildings, and a gymnasium to cater to the needs of all Pakilenyos. Inspired to maintain the old plaza system practiced during the Spanish colonization, the LGU of Pakil aims to show that economic and social development, with culture and history as the backdrop, is possible. Through this balanced view of governance, the town aims to show that the old is never a hindrance to the new. COMPETING WITH CITIES This year, the town aims to be included in the top 50 municipalities of 2018. Cityhood may seem to be a tall order for Pakil at the moment, but the possibility certainly lies in the foreseeable future. For now, Pakil strives to outdo itself in the next years to come. “I don’t want to compete with fellow municipalities, I want to compete with cities,” says Soriano. He envisions Pakil as a model community that other municipalities may draw inspiration from. “This will take some time,” admits Mayor Soriano. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day. But through a decisive leadership and a relentless pursuit of good governance, Pakil will continue climbing its way to the top.

< Back Shaping Tomorrow’s City Today BY MARIANNE JANE S. ZARA PHILIPPINE NUCLEAR RESEARCH INSTITUTE (PNRI) DIRECTOR CARLO A. ARCILLA SHARES HIS JOURNEY IN BECOMING A SCIENTIST AND HIS EXPERIENCES IN BATTLING ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION, AND BREAKTHROUGHS BY THE INSTITUTE UNDER HIS LEADERSHIP. In the heart of Quezon City lies an office complex housing the offices and facilities of an important yet not so known government agency—the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI). The PNRI, one of the research institutes under the Department of Science and Technology, is the sole agency of the government mandated to advance and regulate the safe and peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology in the Philippines. It performs a number of functions, primary of which are to conduct research and development activities on the application of radiation and nuclear techniques, materials, and processes; and to undertake the transfer of the results of such research to end-users, including technical extension and training services. The institute is also tasked to operate and maintain nuclear research reactors and other radiation facilities; and to license and regulate activities relative to production, transfer, and utilization of nuclear radioactive substances in the country. Heading the PNRI is its director, the multi-hyphenate Carlo A. Arcilla, who is a professor, geologist, scientist, and researcher. THE MAKING OF A PROFESSOR, RESEARCHER, AND SCIENTIST At age 13, Arcilla moved from his hometown in Virac, Catanduanes to Metro Manila after being accepted into the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) main campus in Quezon City. The son of a high school principal mother and engineer father, the young Arcilla was a lover of reading and learning. His love for science grew even more as he spent time in the school’s various facilities and laboratories. In his fourth year of high school, Arcilla developed a love for biology and became one of the best biology students in his batch. He recalls that his love for biology made him want to pursue medicine but financial difficulties at that time made him consider other options. An opportunity came his way when he was offered a scholarship to take up geology courtesy of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB). He thus took up geology at the University of the Philippines (UP), graduating cum laude in 1981. Arcilla worked at the MGB for a few months even as he immediately started teaching at the National Institute of Geological Sciences (NIGS) in UP Diliman. After nearly three years of teaching, he decided to move to Cebu where Opus Dei, a Catholic prelature, was setting up a center. Sticking to his scientific path, the young professional joined Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corporation where he did research aside from his duties as senior geologist. After four years with Atlas Mining, Arcilla applied for a Fullbright scholarship and pursued his master’s and doctorate degrees in the United States. He graduated with a Master of Science in Geology majoring in Petrology and Tectonics, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Geotechnical Engineering and Geosciences majoring in Petrology and Geochemistry from the University of Illinois, Chicago. After completing his doctorate, Arcilla needed to come home to the Philippines to take care of his mother. He rejoined NIGS as a professor and rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the institute’s director in 2007. HELPING SHED LIGHT ON ISSUES Arcilla has been instrumental in shedding light on a number of issues in the country. Two of these are the Payatas landfill leachate and the 2010 Makati pipeline leak incident. The Payatas landfill in Quezon City had been filling up with about 6000 tons of municipal solid waste per day from 1995 to 2000. When Arcilla came back in 1998, he started conducting research in the landfill. He saw the problem of the landfill being beside La Mesa Dam, a major source of drinking water for Metro Manila. He and his team found out that in a few more years, the leachate coming from the trash may seep into the dam. Through the same research, they found that about 50 to 60 percent of the garbage being dumped in the area is made up of organic materials and produces methane when it decomposes. This results in fires that burn plastics that may also cause toxicity. The research led to the Quezon City government’s establishment of a small power plant that runs on methane—the first garbage-run power plant in the country. Meanwhile, in 2010, Arcilla and his team discovered an oil pipeline leak in Barangay Bangkal, Makati. About 100 families needed to leave the affected area at two in the morning because there was a leak in part of the 117-kilometer pipeline running from Batangas to Sta. Mesa, Manila owned by the First Philippine Industrial Corporation. The team discovered that in a bend, a patch had failed and about two to three million liters of fuel had spilled. Among the dangers caused by this was the residents’ exposure to benzene, which is a harmful chemical. Arcilla’s team helped the local government of Makati ensure that the company abides by the Supreme Court’s ruling to fully clean up the leak and ensure the safety of the residents. PUSHING FOR NUCLEAR POWER One of Arcilla’s advocacies is the use of nuclear power in the country. He points out that using nuclear power could lessen the effects of global warming by lessening carbon dioxide emissions. Global warming, he says, causes the melting of polar ice sheets at the South Pole and can cause the sea level to rise, thus endangering the life and properties of people residing in low-lying areas. Thus, there is a need to minimize carbon dioxide emissions and nuclear power would help a lot in this. As of the moment, electricity in the Philippines is generated through coal (about 60 percent), natural gas (about 18 percent), and geothermal. The director points out how much energy nuclear power could give without direct carbon dioxide emissions. Arcilla stresses that the use of nuclear power would not only lessen global warming but electricity costs as well. “Nuclear power is four million times more potent or energetic than solar, gasoline, natural gas, or coal,” he explains. With nuclear power, the cost of electricity could lessen as well and this will entice manufacturing businesses to operate. Arcilla mentions how nuclear power has enabled South Korea to have cheap electricity and increase production. The director also mentions that there will be costs for maintenance but such could be easily recovered in a few years, as Korea did in six years. Arcilla points out the limitation of solar power as opposed to nuclear power, placing it this way: “What’s the issue with solar? It’s intermittent. When you have rain, you don’t have solar. At night, there’s no sun. Worldwide average, the best thing that you can get from solar availability is 30 percent. In the Philippines, it’s 15 percent. Which means, who is delivering your power 85 percent of the time? Solar is cheap when the sun is shining. But when it stops shining, the energy with which you will replace solar is the expensive one. That’s called baseload.” Arcilla explains that the baseload is actually from coal, 90 percent of which the Philippines imports from Indonesia. This is the reason why electricity is still expensive despite solar power being installed, as coal is used during non-sunny days or if households use much power at night. Another reason is that there are certain requirements that have to be present for solar power to be generated and made available to end-users. For instance, to make 620 megawatts of electricity, we will need 600 hectares of flat land. This is also why despite the availability of solar power, Arcilla still promotes nuclear power. LOSSES DUE TO NON-USE OF NUCLEAR POWER Arcilla notes that local manufacturers have been on the losing end because of the non-use of nuclear power in the country. He points out that despite the scarcity of important metallic minerals in China, it is still the world’s biggest steel manufacturer, accounting for a little over half of global production. Steel production makes use of iron, nickel, and chrome which China does not have. China imports nickel and chrome from the Philippines. Meanwhile, the Philippines is a net importer of steel, with the local steel industry practically unable to take off. One of the reasons for this is the high cost of electricity. Lower electricity cost brought about by the use of nuclear power could thus help steel manufacturers fill the supply gap. Much of the resistance to the use of nuclear energy is due to fears regarding the safety of such form of energy. The PNRI, however, has taken a multi-pronged approach to the issue of using nuclear energy. The institute, together with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Education, the DOST-National Research Council of the Philippines, and the Philippine Nuclear Science Foundation, hosted the first International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO) for high school students in Clark, Pampanga last August 1–6, 2024. The event, according to DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., “is more than just a test of knowledge; it is a platform for exchanging ideas, forging friendships, and inspiring the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers.” ARCILLA HIGHLIGHTS THE NEED FOR NUCLEAR POWER AS IT COULD PROVIDE EFFICIENT, DEPENDABLE AND SUSTAINABLE POWER. THE USE OF NUCLEAR POWER, HE SAYS, WOULD ALSO LESSEN THE COST OF ELECTRICITY AS NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS ARE COST-EFFECTIVE OPERATIONALLY. A total of 55 contestants, 27 team leaders, and 14 observers from 20 Asian countries participated in the INSO. Mohammad Nur G. Casib of the PSHS campus in Baloi, Lanao del Norte in Mindanao received the title “Nuclear Ambassador” for obtaining the highest overall score in the olympiad. Consistent with the INSO’s aim of inspiring the youth to become leaders and change-makers in the field of nuclear science and technology, Arcilla dreams for Casib and other youngsters to educate their family on nuclear energy. The need to educate the people about the peaceful uses of nuclear energy remains clear, especially since one common misconception still remains today. “Some say that when you have nuclear energy, you will produce nuclear weapons, but that’s only been proven for a small number of countries. Our constitution prohibits nuclear weapons but not nuclear power,” Arcilla clarifies. The government is also bent on ensuring that enough safety nets are in place. Improved safeguards for the use of nuclear power are expected to be implemented once the proposed Philippine Nuclear Regulation Act is signed into law. The bill provides for the creation of the Philippine Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which “shall exercise authority over all aspects of safety, security, and safeguards involving nuclear materials and other radioactive materials, facilities, and radiationgenerating equipment.” Arcilla underscores that at present, the PNRI performs both regulatory and promotional functions, such that for example, if PNRI builds something, it will also be the one to license such. Arcilla hopes for the enactment of the proposed law so that there will be enough safeguards to make sure that the agency does not fall into the creation of nuclear weapons, and nuclear energy will be used in accordance with law. The bill has already been approved by the House of Representatives, and the director hopes that the Senate will soon do the same. PNRI BREAKTHROUGHS The fruits of PNRI’s efforts are being used not just in the field of power generation but even in agriculture. Among these are a plant growth promoter and new technology on the use of irradiation. Arcilla is actively promoting the use of the plant growth promoter that the agency developed in cooperation with the National Crop Protection Center of UP Los Baños—a breakthrough for agriculture. The plant growth promoter is a foliar spray that strengthens the stalks of rice plants, making sure that these don’t fall during inclement weather. The director proudly shares that the product has been tested on thousands of acres of land. According to Arcilla, the formula could bring about at least a 20 percent increase in the yield of rice. If applied to mung beans, bananas, and leafy vegetables, it can increase yield by approximately 40 percent. Meanwhile, PNRI is at the forefront of promoting the use of radiation processing in order to ensure that agricultural and processed products meet international standards for health and safety. Irradiation involves cutting edge technology to inhibit spoilage and extend the shelf life of agricultural products. For instance, Arcilla mentions that Philippine mangoes are the best in the world; however, they will rot if exported to Europe. Through irradiation, however, all spores are killed, therefore extending shelf life. This could also mean that even seafood could be exported. He also speaks fondly of the results of their work on hemostat, or hemostatic radiation, which promotes blood clotting and makes it easier for wounds to heal. WHAT’S NEXT: NUCLEAR MEDICINE TO BEAT CANCER There have also been significant progress in PNRI’s research on nuclear medicine to beat cancer. Launched under Arcilla’s leadership, the studies show that about 70,000 Filipinos die of cancer each year. According to Arcilla, once you have felt cancer and once it has been detected in the scans and is diagnosed, it is already too late. “Cancer cells have a voracious appetite for sugar and so it means that they starve all the surrounding cells,” he explains. “Your own cells aren’t aware of the bacteria that have come inside and now your own cells are working against you.” Doctors usually have a hard time knowing exactly where the cancer cells are, but through nuclear medicine, sugar inside the cancer cells can be tagged in order to set off a series of reactions. Once the compound produced through the process is injected into a cancer patient, doctors can use positron emission tomography (PET) scan and computerized tomography (CT) scan to see exactly where the cancer is. “They will be able to identify a three-dimensional address,” Arcilla says. “This will give the doctors a map that identifies exactly where the cancer is and oncologists no longer need to resort to a shotgun approach. Instead, there’s a target. So you can catch cancer early and the chances of saving lives are much higher. We have that technology here in the Philippines.” Through the above and its other projects, PNRI has quietly but constantly contributed to progress in various fields of endeavor. With a clear vision and mission and a leader who is ready to talk nuclear, the PNRI is expected to contribute even more to the improvement of the quality of life of Filipinos through safe and innovative nuclear science and technology.

< Back BUSINESSMAN KONO SALINAS BY RAGIE MAE TAÑO-ARELLANO EVERY ENTREPRENEUR HAS A STORY AND MORE OFTEN THAN NOT, THE BEGINNING IS NOT GLAMOROUS. KONO SALINAS IS PROOF, HOWEVER, THAT NO MATTER HOW GRIM YOUR PAST, YOU CAN STILL TURN YOUR LIFE AROUND. Kono Maximo Lazaro Salinas, the young entrepreneur behind the hog-raising Farm to Market (F2M) Agricultural Business, was a “siga (tough guy)” in his younger years. He said that he would always pick a fight, especially if he saw someone being bullied. “Kahit hindi ko away, nakikisali ako. Hindi niyo pwedeng kantihin ‘to kasi kaibigan ko (Even if I was not initially involved, I always join in the fight. No one should mess with my friends),” shares Salinas, likening himself to Robin Hood—the legendary outlaw/hero who fought for the downtrodden. Given this history, his success as a businessman was the biggest plot twist for his family who never expected that he would turn out this way. Initially, he wanted to become a police officer, maybe even pursue law. His mother, however, encouraged him to take up Information Technology (IT) instead, fearing his “basagulero (belligerent man)” side would lead to violence in the field. Salinas never finished college and instead found a job in 2013. Soon after, he developed an interest in repairing cars, motorcycles, and racing, which led him to buying and selling cars by 2015. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, his business struggled and he sold it all as he ventured into agriculture with a hog-raising business. At first, he was hesitant given the circumstances, and marketing meat is vastly different from selling cars. But with the help of his friends who would sell his products, Salinas’ business emerged successful despite the global health crisis. A FATHER’S LOVE Beyond money, Salinas’ motivation that pushes him to work harder is his daughter, who died in 2015 because of a heart problem. He shares that his thenfive-year-old daughter was not given full medical attention because they could not afford the expenses; his car buy-and-sell business was just starting then. Salinas admits that it’s still painful to remember what happened to his little princess, but he holds no resentment towards the hospital staff. “Hindi naman mangyayari ‘yun kung walang plano ang Diyos. Siguro ‘yun ang naging susi, ang sign sa ‘kin ni Lord na sipagan at galingan ko pa para hindi na pwede maulit (I believe that wouldn’t happen unless God has a plan [for us]. Perhaps it was the key, a sign from the Lord that I should work harder so that it will never happen again),” Salinas muses. Currently, he is focusing on giving his two sons everything they need and want as a way to compensate for what he could have provided. “Mahal na mahal ko ang nag-iisang prinsesa ng buhay ko. Sinasabi ko sa kanya na ako ang bahala sa dalawa niyang kapatid at hindi na mauulit ‘yung nangyari noon na walang wala tayo. Ngayon, kung buhay sana siya, mabibigay ko sana lahat ng gusto niya (I adore her, my princess. I assure her that I’ll look after her two brothers and we’ll never reach the point of bankruptcy ever again. Now, if she were still alive, we would’ve been able to give her everything she desires).” Although he is separated from his children, Salinas ensures that he is not only a financial provider but also a supportive father. “Growing up, I yearned for my father’s attention,” he says, adding that he used to compete with his older siblings to be noticed. Salinas would join karate competitions and strived to bring home medals to impress his father, who would only attend his brother’s basketball matches. This deep drive continues to push him to succeed in life, eager to prove something to his father. However, he is grateful for his tough childhood and how his father “raised them in a disciplined manner.” Salinas recalls how they were expected to be home by 6 pm, and to be bathed and done eating dinner by 8 pm. Like some children who grew up in the 80s and 90s, spanking as a form of discipline was a regular experience for him and his brothers. While the entrepreneur acknowledges that he has a complicated relationship with his father, he digresses and shares that he is somewhat grateful for his father’s lack of attention because it developed his competitive nature. This ambitious personality, Salinas stresses, is what brought him his current accomplishments. Currently, he adds that he is not as “tough” as his father once was, but his children are made aware of their mistakes especially when he raises his voice. Salinas also constantly reminds them to develop reverence for the Lord. Sa mundo ng business, maraming nagsasabi na kahit hindi naka-graduate, pwede magtagumpay basta may diskarte. Ako, hindi sang-ayon dun. Siguro, sinwerte lang ako. Pero pa’no kung hindi? Iba pa rin po ‘yung graduate ka (In the business realm, plenty argue that your success is not based on whether you’re a college graduate, as long as you’re resourceful. I disagree. Perhaps I just got lucky. Suppose I wasn’t? Being a college graduate still makes a difference),” Salinas explains, adding that he discourages the youth from imitating his decision to drop out of college. A JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE AND EMPATHY Starting his hog-raising business was a giant leap of faith for the businessman who had zero experience in the industry. Salinas admits he thought it was much like raising dogs and he learned the truth the hard way—pig farming is a lot more complicated than it appears. When he started out, his first major crisis was the death of 20 piglets. Only then did he learn that hogs are more susceptible to illness compared to dogs due to their weakened immune systems. But that experience never deterred him, and he says, “I didn’t think about [the complexities of the business]. When I got into hog raising, I had already placed my bets. It’s like whatever I had, I wagered and risked everything.” And the efforts paid off. Salinas reveals that he will soon open a flavored lechon (roasted pig) business in Quezon City. By the end of the year, Salinas aims to establish the Tupad Pangarap Foundation to assist students who require financial assistance for their education. He also wishes to guide the children to develop grit, stressing that aspiring to reach the stars is just half of the equation and they need to put in as much work because success is an uphill battle. “Alam ko naman na hindi ako si Superman, na hindi ko kaya sagipin lahat. Pero gusto ko pa rin makatulong hangga’t sa kaya ko (I know I’m not Superman; I can’t save the world. But I want to help as much as I can),” Salinas says. He wishes to launch this education program because while he achieved success without a college degree, Salinas believes education (and the diploma that comes with it) is still important. “Sa mundo ng business, maraming nagsasabi na kahit hindi naka-graduate, pwede magtagumpay basta may diskarte. Ako, hindi sang-ayon doon. Siguro, sinwerte lang ako. Pero pa’no kung hindi? Iba pa rin po ‘yung graduate ka (In the business realm, plenty argue that your success is not based on whether you’re a college graduate, as long as you’re resourceful. I disagree. Perhaps I just got lucky. Suppose I wasn’t? Being a college graduate still makes a difference),” Salinas explains, adding that he discourages the youth from imitating his decision to drop out of college. As the former chairman of the Tau Gamma City of Biñan Triskelion executive council, Salinas currently supports a number of scholars and has initiated many charity projects through their fraternity. Sharing with those in need, even if one has nothing, is the most valuable lesson in his life, he says. Salinas also instills the value of generosity in the young students that he mentors. Above all, the 34-year-old businessman believes that his dark past does not define him. If anything, he wants to use his story to inspire others to overcome their trials and be God-fearing individuals. Salinas is grateful, however, for those who helped him when he was at the lowest point of his life and he had nothing. It’s this generosity that also inspired him to turn his life around. “You never know, [what if] that small amount of help or even just a little of your time helped change their lives? What if they’re at their lowest? Your generosity will leave an indelible mark; it could make all the difference,” Salinas ends.

VOL. 8 NO. 3 UNITED STATES PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP Making an Immediate Impact Donald Trump’s return to the White House with bold moves and policy changes is creating an impact that would either make one love him or hate him. Barangay connection Barangay Magnao in kalinga opens a new health center, while SK Council of Barangay in Ragay, Camarines Sur supports students with supplies and hygiene kits Read More NUCLEAR SCIENCE IN ACTION The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute reveals its cutting-edge facilities that are shaping the future of nuclear technology in the Philippines while paving the way for a safer and more sustainable future. Read More ILOCOS SUR: A TAPESTRY OF NATURAL AND MANMADE WONDERS Visiting Ilocos Sur is leads not just to an appreciation of beauty but realization of the Philippines’ rich tapestry of culture and history. Read More GOODBYE GOLDEN VISA, GOODBYE FILIPINO INVESTORS? Spain is phasing out its Golden Visa program—what will be its impact on Filipino investors who want to attain European residency? Read More WHAT’S AT STAKE: A LOOK AT THE 2025 MIDTERM ELECTIONS What are the most important things that we have to consider as we move closer to the midtern elections? Read More UNITED STATES PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP Donald Trump’s return to the White House with bold moves and policy changes is creating an impact that would either make one love him or hate him. Read More RETIRED ITALIAN AMBASSADOR MARCO CLEMENTE As he retires in the Philippines, the former Italian ambassador shares his efforts to bridge two cultures and how Filipinos have become a vital part of not only Italian society but also of him and his family. Read More TOURISM SECRETARY CHRISTINA GARCIA FRASCO Know how the former mayor of Cebu and the youngest Cabinet secretary is transforming the Philippine tourism industry into a powerhouse with her transformative programs and unshakable governance. Read More PNRI DIRECTOR CARLO A. ARCILLA Learn why this leader is making a bold push for nuclear energy in the Philippines and how the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute contributes to shaping the future of science toward sustainable national progress. Read More BIR COMMISSIONER ROMEO D. LUMAGUI JR. Commissioner Romeo Lumagui, Jr. is transforming the BIR through modernization, digitalization, and employee empowerment to promote transparency, efficiency, and Filipinos’ trust in the country’s tax system. Read More BACOOR MAYOR STRIKE B. REVILLA Mayor Strike Revilla shares his dreams and efforts to make Bacoor a model city for progress and how his unwavering commitment was shaped by his 30-year journey in public service. Read More MARIKINA 2ND DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE STELLA LUZ QUIMBO Learn how educator-turned-lawmaker Congresswoman Stella Quimbo handles Marikina’s challenges, using her skills in listening, evaluating, and simplifying complex issues to shape impactful legislation. Read More LANAO DEL SUR FIRST DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE ZIAUR-RAHMAN “ZIA” ALONTO ADIONG Discover how the Marawi Siege transformed Congressman Zia Alonto Adiong’s perspective about turning the crisis and loss into a powerful drive for legislative advocacy and lasting peace not only in Mindanao but beyond. Read More ILOCOS SUR GOVERNOR JERRY SINGSON Get to know how a barangay captain rose to become a visionary governor who has built a legacy founded on resilience and unity for the people of Ilocos Sur. Read More

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VOL. 8 NO. 1 Answering the Call of Duty SENATOR FRANCIS N. TOLENTINO Discover how Senator Francis Tolentino has remained committed to his duty of providing quality public service for nearly four decades amid various challenges. Driven by PURPOSE, Powered by PROGRESS MARKED BY INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY, PLARIDEL, BULACAN MAYOR JOCELL VISTAN’S UNIQUE PROJECTS ADDRESS A WIDE SCOPE OF HER CONSTITUENTS’ NEEDS AND SET THE FOUNDATION FOR LASTING CHANGE. Read More ENJOY JAKARTA AND STUNNING BANDUNG Jakarta and Bandung are must-visit destinations in Indonesia for those who want to immerse themselves in rich history, vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, exciting shopping experiences, and beautiful natural scenery. Read More A PEEK INTO SAN JUAN’S RICH HISTORY In San Juan City, visitors can explore a rich history that honors revolutionary heroes and showcases colonial infrastructure that promotes recreation and cultural engagement. Read More UNVEILING THE MAGIC OF HIDDEN PARADISE Known as a mystical island, Dinagat captivates every visitor with its rich history, cultural treasures, and unique culinary experiences, offering more than just stunning beaches. Read More DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF YOUR NEXT GETAWAY Explore Magallanes—a perfect retreat in Cavite—where a range of attractions and activities await those who want to create great memories. Read More INDONESIAN AMBASSADOR H.E. AGUS WIDJOJO Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo, a former military general, is instrumental in promoting ASEAN cooperation, economic growth, and peaceful resolution of regional disputes. Read More PNP CHIEF GENERAL ROMMEL FRANCISCO MARBIL Get to know the highest leader of the Philippine National Police as a dedicated family man and a visionary leader whose efforts are focused on modernizing the PNP’s approach to protecting Filipinos through the use of advanced technologies. Read More PHILIPPINE SPORTS COMMISSION CHAIRMAN RICHARD BACHMANN Meet the man behind the Philippine Sports Commission and discover his game-changing approach to transforming Philippine sports and nurturing future Olympians. Read More CHEF EDWARD MATEO Discover the recipe for success of kakanin maker and pastry chef Edward Mateo, whose passion for Filipino cuisine and resilience have shaped his culinary journey. Read More JULITA, LEYTE COUNCILOR JUDE ROMUALDEZ This young councilor facilitates projects that encourage citizen participation in order to better their lives. Read More SAN JOSE DEL MONTE BULACAN MAYOR ARTHUR B. ROBES Mayor Arthur Robes shares his transformative vision in leading San Jose Del Monte to progress and prosperity through his strong political will. Read More BICOL SARO CONGRESSMAN BRIAN RAYMUND YAMSUAN Know more about Congressman Brian Raymund Yamsuan—a kingmaker turned lawmaker dedicated to community empowerment and political change. Read More SENATOR FRANCIS N. TOLENTINO Discover how Senator Francis Tolentino has remained committed to his duty of providing quality public service for nearly four decades amid various challenges. Read More SAN JUAN CITY MAYOR FRANCIS ZAMORA From the basketball court to city hall, see how Mayor Francis Zamora skillfully dribbles through challenges to implement his game plan for local governance, creating a lasting impact in the lives of San Juaneños. Read More DINAGAT ISLANDS GOVERNOR NILO P. DEMEREY, JR. Governor Nilo P. Demerey Jr. tells his inspiring journey in transforming the Province of Dinagat Islands and his vision of making it a more progressive island. Read More SAN JOSE DEL MONTE BULACAN CONGRESSWOMAN FLORIDA “RIDA” ROBES Know how Congresswoman Florida “Rida” Robes leverages her entrepreneurial expertise to transform San Jose del Monte into a progressive city while advocating for legislation that enhances the lives of Filipinos. Read More MAGALLANES, CAVITE MAYOR ANGELLI MALIGAYA-BAUTISTA Discover the magic behind the S.M.I.L.E. of Mayor Jasmin Angelli Maligaya-Bautista, with which she is inspiring change in Magallanes. Read More

DONYA TESORO TABLE OF CONTENTS GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW AGENCY OF CHANGE Philippine Institute of Volcanology & Seismology (PHIVOLCS) Anatomy of an Earthquake Read More PROFILES BRGY. CAPT. JORGE BOCOBO Bridging the Gap Read More PROFILES CONG. FIDEL NOGRALES Courage to Change Read More GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW FOSTERING UNITY AND COOPERATION Marinduque Gov. Velasco Elected New League of Provinces President Read More GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW GOCC NATION BCDA New Clark City The New Frontier Read More FEATURES GOV. SUSAN YAP Full Steam Ahead Read More GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW MAYOR DONYA TESORO LEADING CHANGE Read More FEATURES MAYOR MENCHIE ABALOS Mother Leads Best Read More GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW MAYOR TOBY TIANGCO NOWHERE TO GO BUT UP Read More GOVERNANCE IN REVIEW STEP UP DILG Culminates Orientation for Newly Elected Officials Read More

VOL. 7 NO. 7 List A Mother’s Triumph Over Adversity CABADBARAN CITY MAYOR JUDY CHIN-AMANTE Learn about the inspiring journey of Cabadbaran City’s mayor, Judy Chin-Amante, as she explores new passions, overcomes obstacles, and drives the city forward by being resilient and determined in her roles as a strong leader and a single mother. Spotlight ESCAPE THE ORDINARY WITH CABADBARAN CITY’S MOST STUNNING BACKDROPS Discover Cabadbaran City, where the refreshing embrace of nature, a glimpse into its rich historical past, and the unique tastes of local cuisine come together to offer an unforgettable experience. Read More Spotlight DISCOVER CAVITE CITY Immerse yourself in the excitement of the Regada Water Festival, the Philippines’ largest water festival, while exploring Cavite City’s dynamic culinary scene, budget-friendly hotels, and historic Corregidor Island. Read More Barangay Connection 7 BARANGAY CONNECTION Discover how Barangay Sauyo, Quezon City promotes inclusivity through Project Tahan’ay, and learn about the Marine Research Center on Sarangani Island, which will showcase key local projects for disability empowerment and marine conservation. Read More Feature WCC PRESIDENT RAYMOND PATRICK V. GUICO Step into the visionary world of of an HEI president who advocates internationalization in Philippine education while raising standards to global levels. Read More Legal opinion ASIN - LITTLE GRAINS, MAJOR IMPACT: AN INFORMATIVE JOURNAL Get a clear view of how a salient law can revitalize the local salt industry and help push the national economy forward. Read More Global ties COMMERCIAL VICE CONSUL OF DTI-PTIC IN HONG KONG ATTY. ROBERTO B. MABALOT Discover how the leader of a small but committed team at the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Hong Kong has helped deepen trade connections and uncover investment prospects, making 2023 a watershed year for bilateral economic engagement. Read More Business MAYNILAD CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER RAMONCITO “MON” S. FERNANDEZ Gain insights from how Maynilad CEO Ramoncito Fernandez tackles the challenges of providing clean water while leading the company through a disciplined and logical approach. Read More Good Governance MANGALDAN, PANGASINAN COUNCILOR LOVELY LIAN CLAVA-MARAMBA Councilor Lovely Lian Clava-Maramba has shown that female leaders can exemplify strength and purpose serving the community and making a difference. Read More Good Governance KIDAPAWAN MAYOR JOSE PAOLO M. EVANGELISTA Learn about how Kidapawan City Mayor Jose Paolo M. Evangelista is rebuilding his city through a vision of sustainability, inclusivity, and positive transformation, turning obstacles into opportunities for progress and community empowerment. Read More Good Governance RIZAL 2ND DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE EMIGDIO “DINO” P. TANJUATCO III Guided by the principles he learned from his father, the congressman of Rizal’s 2nd District is confident that he will be able to bring progress to his province despite various challenges. Read More Good Governance CAGAYAN VICE GOVERNOR MELVIN “BOY” VARGAS AND LTFRB SPOKESPERSON PIRCELYN “CELINE” PIALAGO Find out how a couple from different fields of government work together, bringing their own talents and commitment to public service, to achieve a shared goal of transforming the province of Cagayan. Read More Good Governance CAVITE CITY MAYOR DENVER CHUA Discover how Mayor Denver Chua’s dynamic leadership has revitalized Cavite City, making it debt-free and steering the city towards a future of economic and cultural renaissance. Read More Good Governance RIZAL, NUEVA ECIJA MAYOR HANNA KATRINA “TRINA” ANDRES Mayor Hanna Katrina Andres of Rizal, Nueva Ecija, believes that purpose may be found in unexpected places as shown by her successful transition from corporate life to public service. Read More Good Governance DSWD DIRECTOR MICHAEL CRISTOPHER “CRIS” R. MATHAY Discover how social work and preparedness for disasters are being combined by former city councilor and current director of the DSWD Michael Cristopher “Cris” R. Mathay to improve resilience and national has shown that female leaders can exemplify strength and purpose Read More Good Governance CABADBARAN CITY MAYOR JUDY CHIN-AMANTE Learn about the inspiring journey of Cabadbaran City’s mayor, Judy Chin-Amante, as she explores new passions, overcomes obstacles, and drives the city forward by being resilient and determined in her roles as a strong leader and a single mother. Read More Good Governance ILOCOS NORTE 2ND DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE EUGENIO ANGELO MARCOS BARBA Know how a legislator from a prominent political family in Ilocos Norte has forged his own path in leadership and service, blending tradition and creativity throughout his lengthy career in public service. Read More

VOL. 7 NO. 6 List Leading with Meaning and Purpose CAVITE 3RD DISTRICT PROVINCIAL BOARD MEMBER ONY CANTIMBUHAN Read More Champion of the Overseas Filipino Workers in the 19th Congress OFW PARTYLIST REPRESENTATIVE MARISSA “DEL MAR” MAGSINO Read More Progressive Visionary MAPANDAN, PANGASINAN MAYOR KARL CHRISTIAN VEGA Read More The Family Legacy of Transformation DON SALVADOR BENEDICTO MAYOR LAURENCE MARXLEN DELA CRUZ Read More Soil Health Champion AGUSAN DEL SUR 2ND DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE EDDIEBONG PLAZA Read More Carrying the Torch of Good Local Governance CANLAON CITY MAYOR JOSE CHUBASKO “BATCHUK” CARDENAS Read More The Voice of Every Probinsyano ANG PROBINSYANO PARTYLIST REPRESENTATIVE ALFRED DELOS SANTOS Read More Pursuit of Happiness FINNISH AMBASSADOR TO THE PHILIPPINES JUHA PYYKKÖ Read More The Mangrove Stewards of Ibajay, Aklan ​ Read More Baguio City urges early preparations for La Niña following effects of El Niño ​ Read More CAFE 10/23: A HOMEGROWN HAVEN IN IMUS ​ Read More A BREATH OF FRESH ADVENTURE ​ Read More FILIPINO ATHLETES GOING FOR OLYMPIC GOLD IN PARIS ​ Read More CANLAON POTATO SYSTEMS, TRAINING & RESEARCH CENTER: A HUB OF AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION ​ Read More UNVEILING THE HIDDEN GEMS OF CANLAON CITY ​ Read More