NATION BUILDERS & MOSLIV AWARDSBE EARTH-WISECOPYRIGHT @ 2023 SUSTAINABILITY STANDARDS, INC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher.Published by SUSTAINABILITY STANDARDS, INC. 146 Alfaro Place, LP. Leviste Street UG-39, Salcedo Village Makati City, 1227 Philippines Phone: (02) 8280 2965: (02) 8260.2539; 09688581982 https://www.sustainability-standards.orgKARL STUART MCLEAN Chairman and PublisherKENNETH P. PROCETE President & CEORUTCHIE VIDAL MCLEAN Director for TreasuryREYNALDO V. CUNANAN Director for Finance & AccountingROGER E. DOMINGO, JRDirector for IT & General ServicesLANI F. ESTEBAN Director for CreativesATTY. DENNIS MANALO ATTY. CONNIE OJEDALegal CounselJOSEPHINE ARBOLEDAMarketing DirectorGLOFE ALLERA-CIRERASales DirectorMYKE MIRAVITE Managing EditorDONDON PESTAÑO Creative & Graphics ManagerDAVERICK JOHN T. ENCLUNAMA. ARNIE FE M. ALAYONMA. PAULINE M. GOCOTANOJOSHUA B. PEÑALVERIT & AdministrationJELLA DEOCreatives DesignerJOSHUA ROY S. DALUMPINESCreatives DesignerCONTRIBUTORSDISCLAIMEREffort was exerted to reach out to the persons and organizations featured in this book. We appreciate the time that many allotted to respond on the submission of narrative and photos supplied by each organizations and awardees.TRIZHIA BAROLA APPLE CLARIE BENITO JULIE ANN CANLAS PAMELA CORTES MARCIAL J. CUSTODIO, III DONNA NUARINPRINCESS JAZZMINE TUGADI ANALIZA B. ARANCON RICHARD PAGALILAWANJAWO TENORIO KEVIN EDWARD P. SEE JAZZ TUGADELARA CALDERON PRIMETIVA FARENAS REZ T. ARAOREGIELYN QUINDARA SUPANGAN RENELYN AZURO BASEM MANALAOELLEN SIU-REYES ANGELA V. SOLON DANA DAVIDBERNADETTE BANTO MARK NEIL BAUTISTA BENDO JANETTE SANCHEZISRAEL DG. LAVA RECHEL VILLASIS CHRIS VALLEREY MALIMBAN KATHRYN NICOLE ANACION KIMBERLY LI EDISON JUSTIN DEUS ROBERT NEPOMUCENO JAY VILLARICA JOJO VILLOTE-GENODIA KRISHNA BALSARZA PRISCILA S. AUSTEROGLOFE ALLERA-CIRERA ANNA CAROLINA CRUZ YNA FRANCEZCA BUENOMARY ANN LAGUNZAD FRAMEL ANNE ALLERA JAYSON BONG GENSAYADANAYARA YEDDAH ANNIE HANIEL ENRIQUEZ JOANNERHAM ALLEYRA CAPTAIN LIZZEL SAN JOAQUIN MIGUEL GONZALES ASRIPA N. MACAPAGAL, LPT, MAED LIZA BAJADO MARY HANIEL®
ForewordAs we open the pages of “Nation Builders and MOSLIV Awards 2023: Volume 5,” we embark on a journey through the future of urban development, a future where the line between the urban jungle and the green pastures is not just blurred, but harmoniously intertwined. With the theme “Highly Urbanized Cities and Communities,” this volume offers insights, inspirations, and commendable strides that pioneers have made towards creating sustainable urban spaces.In an age where more than half of the world’s population resides in urban areas, it is paramount to understand and prioritize the health and well-being of city dwellers. Good health, often taken for granted, is intrinsically linked with the environments we inhabit. The cities of tomorrow should not only be technologically advanced but should also promote the holistic well-being of their residents. They need to be places where the air is clean, where people have access to quality healthcare, and where physical and mental health is nurtured by the very design of the city.One significant movement that has gained momentum in recent years is urban gardening. Beyond the obvious benefits of providing fresh, local produce, urban gardens are sanctuaries of peace amidst the hustle and bustle, vital green lungs in concrete jungles, and community hubs where people of all backgrounds come together to nurture life. They remind us that even in the densest city block, nature has a rightful place, and we must honor that.But what truly constitutes a ‘highly urbanized city’? It’s more than just towering skyscrapers and intricate road networks. It encompasses efficient public transportation systems, interconnected green spaces, and sustainable housing. It values technological innovations that streamline services and enhance the quality of life. It promotes educational and cultural hubs that foster community engagement and lifelong learning. Above all, a highly urbanized city places its people at the center of its design and decision-making processes.As you delve into this volume, you will discover stories of visionaries and trailblazers, of cities that have transformed challenges into opportunities, and of communities that have come together to build a brighter, greener, and more inclusive future. Let “Nation Builders and MOSLIV Awards 2023: Volume 5” be a beacon of hope and a testament to the incredible potential that lies within our urban landscapes.May this book inspire more leaders, innovators, and communities to join the movement towards building highly urbanized cities that are not just centers of economic growth, but also bastions of health, sustainability, and human spirit.Welcome to the future of urban living.
As a premier organization centered on charting a path of progress and resilience, the Sustainability Standards, Inc. continues to champion the integration of principles for a smarter, healthier, and greener community in all its endeavors. Consistent with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, your institution has worked tirelessly with the government in finding the delicate balance among the social, economic, and environmental needs of our people, hereby fostering prosperity in the present time while securing the future for our younger generations.I likewise congratulate the distinguished awardees of the Nation Builders & Most Sustainable and Livable Community (MOSLIV) Awards. Your efforts have truly enhanced the lives of the Filipino people, filled in the gaps of our crucial sectors, and boosted the competitiveness of our cities. Bear in mind that you help shape the growth trajectory of our nation so it is only fitting that we consolidate our strengths to conserve our natural resources, provide equitable opportunities, and look after the well-being of our citizenry.To create a more lasting legacy, I hope that you will continue to be an active partner of this administration in achieving our sustainability goals. May you also continue to promote public awareness on the significance of a whole-of-nation approach in confronting the issues in your given field. Fully embrace your responsibility as stewards of our environment and enjoin everyone from policymakers to students to devise inclusive solutions, participate in civic programs, and practice responsible consumption of energy, among others. Through these, we can ultimately achieve a global climate neutral society in the course of time.I wish you success in your noble pursuits.FERDINAND R. MARCOS JR.MANILA20 OCTOBER 2023THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINESMESSAGEMALACAÑAN PALACEMANILA
Assalamulaikum.My sincerest gratitude to the people behind Nation Builders and Most Sustainable and Liveable Community or Mosliv Awards for the inspiring work you have done, recognizing the active involvement of the Filipino people and strengthening their capacities to promote sustainability standards in our communities. This gathering brings inspiration and complements the government’s whole-of-nation approach, promoting diversified ideas and actions, and refining leadership strategies to engender long-term planning and sustainability of the economy, environment and human capital development.I urge the Most Sustainable and Liveable Communities to actively innovate and develop networking and communication platforms to enhance the effectiveness of our entrepreneurs, organization leaders, and government officials. We need nation builders to respond to the global trend of sustainability and the urgent need for climate action and compassing climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, land use planning, reducing carbon emissions, and disaster risk reduction and response. Let us collaborate to build sustainable and climate-resilient communities and cities across the Philippines and around the world.Patuloy nating mahalin ang Pilipinas.Shukran. Maraming Salamat.SARA Z. DUTERTEVICE PRESIDENTREPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINESSECRETARY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONTHE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINESMESSAGERepublic of the Philippines@Inday Sara Duterte@indaysara@indaysaraduterte
MESSAGE FROM THEI would like to congratulate all the recipients of the Nation Builders and Most Sustainable and Livable Communities (MOSLIV) Awards, organized by the Sustainability Standards Inc. As a long-time environmental advocate, I understand the challenges of convincing people and communities to act for the benefit of our environment. Since my first term in 1998 in the Senate, my advocacy has been consistent: the protection of our environment, adaptation to climate change, and mitigation of its impacts.It has never been an easy task, as climate change was once perceived as an abstract issue, reserved for experts and scientists. People need to be inspired and feel that they are part of a shared cause for them to realize the impact of their actions on their daily lives.I am grateful for the increasing number of organizations, such as Sustainability Standards Inc., actively contributing to initiatives that provide economic and social growth and promote resilient and sustainable communities. Embracing a sustainable way of life is not an impossible challenge. It can easily be attained when we recognize that our actions today will ultimately affect not only our immediate surroundings but the world that we will pass on to the next generations.We can all make a difference for the health of our environment. We must take the opportunity to responsibly manage our environment and lead the way toward a resilient and sustainable development, one that can help us sustain our nation’s socio-economic progress, significantly contribute to poverty reduction, and ensure the realization of our sustainable development goals. Together, we can envision a world where economic development coexists with environmental preservation. An Earth where we embrace sustainability, mindful consumption, and planetary health as core principles in growing our economy.I would also like to recognize the dedication of Sustainability Standards Inc. to this cause, and I acknowledge your efforts to pursue a sustainable and resilient future for all.Thank you at isang Luntiang Pilipinas sa ating lahat!OFFICE OF SENATOR LOREN LEGARDAHON. LOREN LEGARDASenate President Pro TemporeRepublic of the PhilippinesSENATEiamlorenlegarda @loren_legardawww.lorenlegarda.com.ph@iamlorenlegarda
MESSAGE FROM THEIt is with great pleasure that I greet the members and officers of Most Sustainable and Livable Communities by Sustainability Standards as they recognize exemplary public servants and business leaders in this year’s Nation Builders and MOSLIV Awards. Your efforts to enable organizations to work towards sustainability and climate neutrality are crucial, especially as we strive to address the adverse effects of the climate crisis.These kinds of initiatives honoring sustainability champions are important at this critical time when we are facing unprecedented environmental challenges so that the government, private sector and local communities are inspired to commit to eco-friendly practices, renewable energy and reducing their carbon footprint to set them on a path to climate neutrality. We have started consulting local communities, especially the most vulnerable sectors, on the types of financing and insurance they need to make them more resilient and better equipped to mitigate the effects of climate change in their areas.We are also advocating for the widespread adoption of cleaner and more sustainable energy in the Philippines, with the focus on using renewable energy sources best suited to our needs in line with the country’s commitment to cut carbon emissions by 75% within 2020 to 2030. The urgency of transitioning to climate neutrality cannot be overstated. We must all take action regardless if we are business leaders, policymakers, or private individuals. We must invest in renewable energy, adopt sustainable practices, and advocate for policies that protect our environment. The time to act is now.May the successes of Most Sustainable and Livable Communities and all the awardees inspire hope for us to join hands in the urgent pursuit of climate neutrality for the sake of our planet and the generations that will inherit it.Thank you and congratulations once again!OFFICE OF SENATOR RISA HONTIVEROSHON. RISA HONTIVEROSDeputy Minority Floor LeaderSenator, Republic of the PhilippinesRepublic of the PhilippinesSENATEhontiverosrisa @risahontiveroswww.senrisahontiveros.com@hontiverosrisa
MESSAGE FROM THEIt gives me great pleasure to be part of the Nation Builders & Mosliv Awards by sending this heartfelt message to your esteemed organization on behalf of the Senate and the entire nation. Your efforts to work with individuals, organizations, and the government to commit towards protecting our environment, promoting social equity, and improving economic prosperity are a testament to your dedication and tireless work. The whole world is benefiting from your work, and your efforts’ impact is felt far and wide. You have shown us that we can all work together for the greater good of humanity, and the benefits of that collaboration can be felt for years to come.As a public servant, I have always believed that sustainable development should be the foundation of all our endeavors. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to ensure that our communities are not only liveable but also sustainable. Meeting sustainability standards requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders- individuals, communities, government, and non-government organizations. And you have managed to achieve that commendable feat. Rest assured that I will continue to support and push legislation that shall focus on creating economic growth that is both environmentally friendly and socially responsible.At this point, I express my utmost gratitude and congratulations to the awardees and to each one of you for your strong commitment to this endeavor. Let us work together to be one in promoting sustainable development for the betterment of our communities.OFFICE OF SENATOR FRANCIS TOLENTINOSENATOR FRANCIS “TOL” N. TOLENTINORepublic of the PhilippinesSENATEfrancistolngbayan francistolngbayansenfrancistolentino senfrancistolentino
MESSAGE FROM THEMy heartfelt greetings to the officers and members of the MOSLIV Communities (Most Sustainable and Livable Communities) as it holds its Nation Builders & MOSLIV Awards.I commend your organization for its outstanding contributions to our community, and I assure you that as a public servant, I am committed to upholding and promoting the welfare and future of our society. Together, let us work towards realizing all your goals through substantial legislation and collaborations.As you move forward, remember that your accomplishments serve as an inspiration to others and a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. The MOSLIV Awards are a reflection of your excellence and a symbol of the potential that lies within each of you.I am excited to see all the great things you will accomplish in the future, and I encourage you to continue striving for excellence in all that you do. Always remember that your talents, skills, and abilities can make a difference in the world, and that you have the power to create positive change.Once again, congratulations!OFFICE OF SENATOR WIN GATCHALIANSENATOR WIN GATCHALIANwww.WinGatchalian.comRepublic of the PhilippinesSENATE
MESSAGE FROM THEI would like to express my sincere congratulations to every one of you who received the Nation Builders and MOSLIV Awards. This event is a significant milestone in recognizing your tireless efforts to build more intelligent, sustainable, and eco-friendly communities that foster prosperity for current and future generations.The MOSLIV Communities organization has been advocating for responsible and sustainable community development, resulting in the transformation of neighborhoods into inclusive, eco-friendly, and vibrant spaces.The Nation Builders and MOSLIV Awards serve as a reminder of the positive impact that your organization has made in fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collaboration among community members. Your efforts towards championing sustainability and livability have been a source of inspiration for all of us, encouraging active participation in creating a better world for ourselves and future generations.I have no doubt that the MOSLIV Communities will continue to be a source of hope and inspiration for communities everywhere. Your commitment to sustainability, livability, and prosperity is a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together with a common vision. Let’s keep up the good work!OFFICE OF SENATOR JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADAJINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADASenatorRepublic of the PhilippinesSENATEjinggoyestrada @EstradaJinggoywww.jinggoyestrada.ph@jinggoyestrada29
MESSAGE FROM THEMy sincerest greetings and congratulations to the Officers and members of Most Sustainable and Livable Communities (MOSLIV Communities) by the Sustainability Standards, Inc. as it holds its Annual Nation Builders and MOSLIV Awards this year. Your program towards the integration and inclusivity of sustainable and greener communities across the country is indubitably the same vision we have in the Department of Interior and Local Government, that is to maintain peace and order, and public safety.Without your organization’s bold efforts and initiatives in bringing forth sustainable system for our people, and for their respective communities – we will not be able to exceed the environmental challenges our Nation’s have suffered. Continue to be an epitome of good governance among and between your institution and apply the same standards and zeal to your goal as an organization that safeguards our environment and ensures that our natural resources are adequate and suitable for the future generation. May this year be a continuance of your officialdom’s unceasing commitment and dedication to integrate, reform, and transform our societies to a greener and self-supporting communities.Your selfless pledge to uphold the welfare and interests of our forthcoming generation is one of our duties as a responsible citizen of this nation. Again, my congratulations to the men and women of MOSLIV Communities and to the astounding Nation Builders Awardees! May you continue to underscore your vision and advocacy of protecting our Mother Nature, our future. To building a greener and safer nation.UNDERSECRETARY SERAFIN BARRETTOSERAFIN P. BARRETTO JR., CESO IVUndersecretary for Public Safety“Matino, Mahusay at Maaasahan”Republic of the PhilippinesDEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTwww.dilg.gov.ph
MESSAGE FROM THESUSTAINABILITY - When we delve into the essence of this profound statement, we find a world of meaning and significance. At its core, Sustainability represents a powerful combination of two essential elements: DISCIPLINE and ACTION. Firstly, let’s consider the notion of discipline. Discipline here transcends beliefs and encompasses a broader sense of trust, conviction, and hope. Sustainability embodies a profound belief in the potential of humanity to make positive change. It is the unwavering faith in the inherent goodness and capacity for compassion within each individual that drives love, peace and diversity. The current war at Gaza - Hamas versus Israel, Russia versus Ukraine looks like that we’re in for dire future. The faith of hope for peace and sustainability extends to the belief that, collectively, people can come together to address significant global challenges and create a better world. At the heart of sustainability philosophy is the understanding that faith is not passive but an active force. It’s about believing in a vision and taking steps to manifest that vision into reality. This leads us to the second element: ABILITY TO NEGOTIATE FOR PEACE AND STABILITY for humanity. Sustainability identity is deeply rooted in action. It emphasizes rolling up sleeves, engaging in hands-on work, and committing to making a tangible impact on communities and lives. Through its vast network of dedicated volunteers and members, channels the power of faith into practical initiatives that address pressing issues like poverty, health, education, and environmental sustainability. Every Sustainability Leaders who rise up to the occasion; government who choose to do what is right over what is easy; and groups or organizations whether it’s providing clean water to a remote village, supporting education for underprivileged children, eradicating diseases, or promoting peace and understanding, is a testament to their belief in action. By taking real-world steps to effect positive change, who go beyond their duty to pitch into the movement to save the humanity and the planet. The Nation Builders and Mosliv Awards celebrates these people and groups who accomplish great things in the name of sustainability. And as we recognize what they have done, this book is also a reminder that extraordinary people stands as a shining example of how belief in the power of humanity, coupled with dedicated hands-on work, can create a world where positive change is not only envisioned but realized. Together, we can create a healthier, more vibrant planet for ourselves and future generations.EXECUTIVE DIRECTORKENNETH PRIETO ROCETEPresident and CEO Nation Builders and Mosliv Awardswww.sustainability-standards.org
MESSAGE FROM THELike all big cities in today’s environment, how can we make the inner cities more sustainable?We now have projects that include windows acting as solar panels, thus being able to produce solar clean energy directly into the cities and i believe that this trend will continue.Also, water recycling already happens in buildings, for example, pioneered by Zuellig Pharma at the Zuellig building. They even have a tropical garden on the 32nd floor of their platinum leed building in the middle of the city, which other companies are now trying to follow. In Singapore and Israel, and many other suburban cities, they are growing vegetables in the middle of the cities attached to the hi rise buildings.These trends of making urban cities greener will continue over the next years.The future will show us growing vegetables flowers in the middle of cities. This will also help to control emissions in the cities.The outlook towards a greener environment in the cities is looking good where buildings will also be competing against each other for the greenest most sustainable building. Our aim is to be carbon free by 2030 so let’s see how close we may be able to come to this target.We in the Philippines can, and will lead the way to a healthier carbon free environment soonest.Philippines can and will lead the wayCHAIRMANwww.sustainability-standards.orgKARL S. MCLEAN, KSTChairman, Sustainability Standards Inc.
AWARDS COMMITTEE COUNCILNICO LEIBENGUTHSCOTT COUNTRYMAN, MBALARRY BROUGHARDCAROLE ANN SOLIDUM SARTHOU Nico, with his background as electrical engineer, is looking back into 35 years of experience in power generation, power transmission and renewable energy technologies. For 27 years, bridging European and US companies with the markets in Asia, he helped to build strong partnerships between innovative technology providers and local players in Asia, to boost the transformation from fossil fuels to renewable energy solutions. He covers the complete portfolio of traditional and new power generation technology and helps to identify the business potential in the Asian markets. Supporting several startups and helping very well-known brands to build up their business platforms in the Philippines in different segments of the fast-growing renewable energy sector in Asia. “Me and my team is excited to look into new technologies like airborne high altitude wind power generation, PV – Diesel Fuel Save management, new Energy Storage technology, High level off grid, micro and mini grid solutions. The journey just started, and we are proud to be a part of it, with complete new technologies and concepts in our portfolios.” He is the Executive Director of the Coral Triangle Conservancy. Born and raised in Southern California he has lived in the Philippines and Oceana for the past 28 years founding and managing enterprise scale technology-based companies in tourism, call centers, and digital media. Nine years ago, he switched gears to dedicate his life protecting marine environments and to use his entrepreneurial skills to innovate solutions to some of the biggest challenges facing the future of coral reefs. Scott has a BA from the University of California at Santa Barbara and an MBA from the University of Southern California. He is a Naturalist, Climate Change Reality Project mentor, licensed US Coast Guard Captain, boat builder, coral farmer, waterman, husband and father. Scott has a broad scientific experience on mineral accretion using marine renewable energy to grow limestone structures for marine habitats, coastal storm defense and breakwaters. This will highlight how regenerative industries can be aligned with marine renewable energy use. Integrating energy users to support regenerative activities as part of the Marine Aquaculture, Reefs, Renewable Energy, and Ecotourism for Ecosystem Services TA and the wider Action Plan for Healthy Oceans and Sustainable Blue Economies at The Asian Development Bank. Larry spent his 42 years running ICCS, Japan’s largest PR company focused on IT, specializing in writing, editing and producing technical documents, advertising, and multimedia training programs for Japanese companies. Bilingual communications liaison between Japanese and U.S. engineers in the leisure vehicles and IT industries. He also traveled for interpreting projects, smoothing communication between English-speaking and Japanese business and technical professionals. Specialties: Editing technical and scientific papers for Japanese engineers and researchers. Lecturing on technical writing, business writing, and presentations. Video and audio production. Voiceovers of translations from Japanese to English (more than 1000 titles spanning 40 plus years). Carole is a seasoned Research Professional, with over 40 years’ experience in Consumer and Media Research. She holds a Communication Research Degree from UP College of Mass Communication and was formerly Research Manager at Kraft Foods Philippines, Managing Director of AGB Philippines, Managing Director of AMI – Synovate – Ipsos, and Executive Director for Media in Nielsen.Carole was a Director of MORES for more than 20 years and served as President in 1998 and 2001. SENIOR CONSULTANT, SOWI HYBRID INDUSTRIESEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CORAL TRIANGLE CONSERVANCY, INC. PRESIDENT & CEO, G-TECH ENTERPRISESMANAGING PARTNER, CONSUMER REPUBLIQ INC.
PROF. NELIA CRUZ SARCOLQUINTIN V. PASTRANAFR. ANTONIO “BENG” MOLAVIN, SDB Her journey and career started as a flight attendant of Philippine Airlines to a successful businesswoman as President and CEO of CIE British School with three campuses located at Makati, Cebu and Tacloban. Prof. Nelia is a member of two honoured societies in the United States, the Pi Gamma Mu and Phi Kappa Phi. She was honored as one of the International Distinguished Women of Northwood University, USA, Most Outstanding Alumnae of the Universality of Santo Tomas and received recognition as Distinguished Leader of the Academe from the Friends of Cultural Concerns of the Philippines. She is the charter president and founder of the Rotary Club of Makati Circle of Friends (RCMCoF), and currently serves as Overall Chair for numerous programs such as the Iron Circle Bloodletting Program, and the Tunay na Iskolar ng Bayan Program—a program that seeks to provide 1,000 scholarship grants to orphans of fallen soldiers and dependents of eligible AFP, PCG, and PNP personnel. Her primary advocacy is to uplift and improve the entire marine ecosystem, especially the quality of life of fisherfolk and her present humanitarian advocacies has been an inspiring one. Quintin Pastrana is the President of WEnergy Power Pilipinas and Head of International Business Development for WEnergy Global, a leader in the renewable energy and hybrid microgrid sector. He has degrees in Business, International Relations, and Literature from the Universities of Georgetown, Cambridge, and Oxford. Quintin is the founder of the award-winning Library Renrewal Parthership, and an author of 3 books. He has been named one of the country’s and region’s top leaders by both the Asia Society and among the US-ASEAN Business Council. Father “Beng” is the parish priest of Don Bosco, San Ildefenso, but doubles up as Head of Sustainability for Don Bosco around the Philippines. This includes their flagship project with Plasticbank, where they take back old plastic and get it recycled. As he always says:“You raise me up”which is what he does to all the children at Don Bosco and to all his parishioners. “Don Bosco Tech (or DB TECH) is a member of Don Bosco Green Alliance (DBGA) which brings together in a common platform all the ecological initiatives of Don Bosco institutes worldwide. Fr. Antonio “Beng” Molavin SDB is the present Convener of DBGA”, and it is the desire and dream of Don Bosco to create a more sustainable life for all people around the world, starting with recycle, reuse and offset of plastics. This directive is also supported by Pope Francis.PRESIDENT & CEO, CIE BRITISH SCHOOLCHARTER PRESIDENT, ROTARY CLUB OF MAKATI CIRCLE OF FRIENDSPRESIDENT, WENERGY POWER PILIPINAS, INC.HEAD OF SUSTAINABILITY, DON BOSCO GREEN ALLIANCE (DBGA)LANI F. ESTEBAN Lani F. Esteban is a graduate of AB Mass Communication from University of the Philippines, Diliman. Her broadcast media career began as a Writer/ Segment Producer for ABS-CBN programs such as Rated K, Umagang Kayganda, Pinoy Big Brother, and TV Patrol. In 2010, she was given an offer to direct | television programs for IBC 13 and Solar Entertainment. Before putting up her own Video Production/Marketing business, she held multiple marketing and branding positions for large companies overseeing and leading creative efforts in advertising, video content, social media marketing, branding and packaging. In 2017 she put up Director’s Chair Production, whose pursuit is to provide brand affinity, awareness and sales for client brands. In working directly with clients, she aspires to develop partnerships to deliver strategic and emotionally-resonant creative that also successfully achieves brand goals.PRESIDENT & CEO, DIRECTORS CHAIR PRODUCTION
ContentsHON. MICHAEL L. ROMERO, Ph.D.Representative, Party List - 1-PACMAN .................................................................................HON. PAOLO “PULONG” Z. DUTERTERepresentative, Davao City, 1st District ................................................................................ HON. EMMARIE “LOLYPOP” M. OUANO-DIZONRepresentative, Mandaue City, Lone District ........................................................................HON. LANI MERCADO-REVILLARepresentative, Cavite, 2nd District ......................................................................................HON. BERNADETTE “BH” HERRERARepresentative, Party List - BH ..............................................................................................HON. MA. CYNTHIA “CINDI” KING CHANRepresentative, Lapu-Lapu City, Lone District ......................................................................HON. SITTIE SHAHARA “BAI DIMPLE” I. MASTURARepresentative, Lone District, Maguindanao del Norte with Cotabato City ........................HON. MATTHEW JOSEPH MARCOS MANOTOCGovernor, Ilocos Norte ...........................................................................................................ATTY. KATHERINE C. AGAPAY Vice Governor, Province of Laguna ........................................................................................HON. THADEO JOVITO “JONKIE” M. OUANO Board Member – Cebu ..........................................................................................................HON. JOSE FULGENCIO “PEPE” A. DEL ROSARIO Board Member – Capiz ..........................................................................................................HON. VICTOR MA. REGIS N. SOTTO Mayor, City Government of Pasig ..........................................................................................HON. HILARIO G. PAGAUITAN Mayor, Municipal Government of Santa Maria, Isabela ........................................................HON. DANTE RIZAL A. ESLABON Mayor, Government of Sigma, Capiz .....................................................................................HON. MARIA CONCEPCION “KHUKU” TAN CASTRO Mayor, Municipal Government of Dumalag, Capiz ...............................................................HON. LORENZO B. RELLOSA Mayor, Municipal Government of Famy, Laguna ...................................................................HON. AVIS GINOO MONLEON Mayor, Municipal Government of Catmon, Cebu .................................................................AWARDED HONORARY CONGRESSMAN OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY CONGRESSWOMAN OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY GOVERNOR OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY VICE GOVERNOR OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY BOARD MEMBER OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY LOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR212529353943475155596569758185899397101105109113HON. BANJO S. ESTRELLA Vice Mayor, Government of Guiguinto, Bulacan ...................................................................HON. ANDREO “ANJONG” OUANO ICALINACouncilor, City Government of Mandaue, Cebu ...................................................................HON. RACHELLE ERICA PINEDA Councilor, City Government of Tacloban, Leyte ....................................................................HON. RAINIER GLENN “BOSING RIEN“ DE LUNA OLIVEROSCouncilor, Municipal Government of Gumaca, Quezon .......................................................HON. EDITHA “WOWEE“ Y. MANGUERRA Councilor, City Government of Pasay ....................................................................................AWARDED HONORARY VICE MAYOR OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY COUNCILOR OF THE YEAR
ContentsHON. AGUSTIN B. CANLAS Councilor, Municipal Government of Angono, Rizal .............................................................HON. MARIE NIÑA NIKKIE PEREZ Councilor, Municipality of Bustos, Bulacan ........................................................................... HON. THELMA P. RAMIREZ Captain, Barangay East Rembo, Makati City .........................................................................HON. CIRILO “BEBOT” A. TENORIO Punong Barangay, Barangay Sta. Cruz, Antipolo City ..........................................................HON. RESTITUTO E. CAJES Captain, Barangay San Antonio Village, Makati City ............................................................HON. RIZZA TESALONA GUIANG Captain, Barangay Panay LNB President, Government of Santa Marcela, Apayao .......................................................AWARDED HONORARY BARANGAY CAPTAIN OF THE YEAR117121125129133137141145149165169175181153157161HON. JOHN JESNER PERCE HINORGA PUNSARAN President - Barangay Councilors League of the Philippines Iloilo City and Western Visayas Sangguniang Barangay Member .................................................MS. YOK TIN TAN SO Lions Club of Makati Ayala Amity Centennial Lions Club .......................................................................................MR. ABDUL RAZZAQ SIDDIQ President 2world Traders, Inc. ................................................................................................................MS. ALLYN JOY V. CABARLES Founder & CEO Kaulayaw Coffee .....................................................................................................................MR. RYNOR G. JAMANDREPresident & CEOQuantity Solutions, Inc. ..........................................................................................................MR. ALLAN L. CRISOLOGO Golden Topper Group of Companies ....................................................................................COL. GREGORIO B. HERNANDEZ, JR. PN(M)(GSC) Superintendent, Marine Corps Force Development Center (MCFDC) .................................MS. LOUE MANUEL BOZHILOV Mrs. Continental International Philippines 2023 Cebu Grand Realty, President and CEO ...............................................................................DRA. BAE OKILE MANGONDATO SHARIEF, ALHADJA Founder/Chairwoman/President Lanao Central College, Inc. – LCCI .......................................................................................HON. KHALID “MP KYLE” M. HADJI ABDULLAHMember of Parliament, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) ......................................AWARDED HONORARY PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY MODERN FILIPINO HEROISM OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY MOST EMPOWERED WOMAN OF THE YEARAWARDED HONORARY PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR - EXCELLENCEIN PEACE AND NATION BUILDINGAWARDED HONORARY PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR - EXCELLENCEIN GOVERNMENT SERVICE
ContentsAUX CAPTAIN DIETHER P. OCAMPOPhilippine Coast Guard (PCG)Philippine Coast Guard Headquarters ..................................................................................AWARDED HONORARY ICON AND INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR189193197201205209223215227219231235HON. LANI MERCADO-REVILLA Representative, Cavite, 2nd District ......................................................................................HON. BERNADETTE “BH” HERRERA Representative, Party List - BH ..............................................................................................HON. EDVIC G. YAP Representative, Party List - ACT-CIS ......................................................................................HON. MATTHEW JOSEPH MARCOS MANOTOC Governor, Ilocos Norte ...........................................................................................................HON. HILARIO G. PAGAUITANMayor, Municipal Government of Santa Maria, Isabela ........................................................ENGR. RAMIL B. RIVERAMayor, Government of Cabiao, Nueva Ecija .........................................................................HON. DENNIS M. GLEAN Mayor, Government of General Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite ....................................................HON. RIZZA TESALONA GUIANG Barangay Captain, Barangay Panay LNB President, Government of Santa Marcela, Apayao .......................................................HON. RESTITUTO E. CAJES Captain, Barangay San Antonio Village, Makati City ............................................................HON. CIRILO “BEBOT” A. TENORIO Punong Barangay, Barangay Sta. Cruz, Antipolo City ..........................................................HON. THELMA P. RAMIREZ Captain, Barangay East Rembo, Makati City .........................................................................CERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE AND LIVEABLE DISTRICTCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE AND LIVEABLE PARTY LISTCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE AND LIVEABLE PROVINCECERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE AND LIVEABLE MUNICIPALITYCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE AND LIVEABLE BARANGAY239245257249253MS. GEMMALYN CROSBY Empire Builder/ Business Leader/Real Estate Developer| Author| Athlete| Wife| Mother|5 Star Luxury Resorts Developer| Sustainable Urban Planning. President, Eureka Resorts, Inc. ...............................................................................................MR. ALLEN MARVIN YU EDER President & Founder IAM Worldwide Corporation ..................................................................................................JENNY LIN G. MAAÑO - NGAI Co-Founder & President Sunsmart Solar Power Technology Inc. ..................................................................................MS. ALLYN JOY V. CABARLESFounder & CEO Kaulayaw Coffee .....................................................................................................................MR. ARNOLD VEGAFRIA President & CEO / National Director Miss Grand Philippines ..........................................................................................................CERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE AND LIVEABLE RESORTCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE AND LIVEABLE COMPANYCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE AND LIVEABLE ORGANIZATION185MR. MARK JOSEPH T. FERNANDEZ, CPA, RFC, AFA, CWP, CEPP Chairman, FinancePH Group of Companies .........................................................................AWARDED HONORARY BUSINESS INNOVATOR ANDEXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
NATION BUILDERSIn the annals of history, there are those whose deeds transcend eras and impact the lives of many. Over the past three years, during the world’s struggle with the unparalleled challenges brought by the Covid-19 pandemic, a fundamental truth about our existence has become unmistakably clear - every acon we take is inmately ed to the delicate equilibrium of nature. Throughout the chaos, one man stood as a champion of the marginalized, a symbol of unwavering dedicaon to the welfare of the Filipino people within the legislave sphere and beyond. This man is none other than 1PACMAN Partylist Representave Michael “Mikee” Romero, whose work deserves recognion as Congressman of the Year for 2023. Eradicang poverty has been and connues to be one of the world’s most daunng challenges. In a world growing ever warmer and more vulnerable, countries like the Philippines nd themselves at the forefront of this bale. Romero, a representave of the One Patrioc Coalion of Marginalized Naonals (1PACMAN), has taken it upon himself to lead the organizaon into relessly striving to upli the lives of the impoverished. In his seven-year tenure spanning the 17th, 18th, and 19th Congress, Representave Romero authored a staggering 900 House Bills and Resoluons. These weren’t mere pieces of legislaon; these were the building blocks of transformaon especially in the face of society-upending disasters like the Covid-19 pandemic.AWARDED HONORARYCONGRESSMANOF THE YEARHON. MICHAEL L. ROMERO, PH.D.REPRESENTATIVE, PARTY LIST, 1-PACMANA CONGRESSMAN FOR THE PEOPLE21
Awarded Honorary Congressman of the Year22Mikee Romero, a man of the people, a champion of the marginalized, and a beacon of hope, stands as a testament to the power of dedicated public service.
These weren’t mere pieces of legislaon; these were the building blocks of transformaon especially in the face of society-upending disasters like the Covid-19 pandemic. To date, seventy-three of his bills have been stamped into law as Philippine Republic Acts, making the impact of his work transcend mulple aspects of Filipino life. Consider, for instance, RA 11201, the “Creaon of the Department of Human Selements and Urban Development.” This legislaon provides aordable and decent housing to poverty-stricken Filipinos, ensuring they have a roof over their heads, a fundamental necessity for physical survival, especially in mes of disaster. In the eld of healthcare, Romero ushered in a new era of reform through RA 11223, the “Universal Health Care Act,” which provides equitable access to quality and aordable healthcare, goods, and services. Romero is also a rm believer in the power of small businesses. The Corporate Recovery and Tax Incenves for Enterprises (CREATE) Law, RA 11534, which he championed, is regarded as the largest scal smulus for businesses in the country’s recent history. In the realm of agriculture, Romero’s advocacy also shines through. He has ardently championed the interests of farmers who oen bear the brunt of more frequent and devastang typhoons. His eorts led to the passage of RA 10969, the “Free Irrigaon Service Act,” which exempts all farmers with landholdings of eight hectares and below from paying irrigaon service fees for water derived from originaon systems managed by the Naonal Irrigaon Administraon (NIA). The list of Romero’s legislave achievements is extensive, spanning sectors such as agriculture, poverty alleviaon, healthcare, economics, sports, social services, labor, pandemic response, permits, licenses, passports, science and technology, senior cizens, Muslim aairs, an-terrorism, natural resources and energy, telecommunicaons, local government, and taxes and revenues. Romero’s dedicaon to serving the public has not gone unnoced. He has consistently been recognized as a top performer and an outstanding congressman by numerous award-giving bodies, including Superbrands Philippines, Asia Leaders Awards, Naon Builders Award, and Elite Leaders Awards. Then there’s the maer of pung food on the table and providing access to quality educaon—two core concerns for Filipino families. Representave Romero, driven by a resolute polical will, spearheaded the passage of RA 11310, the “Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Act.” This act is a naonal poverty reducon strategy and a human capital investment program that oers condional cash transfers to needy households, spanning up to seven years, to enhance their quality of life. Moreover, recognizing that access to free, high-quality educaon can level the playing eld for disadvantaged children, Romero, in his rst term as a lawmaker, introduced the House Bill that eventually became RA 10931, the “Universal Access to Quality Terary Educaon Act.” This law, signed in April 2017, provides free tuion and other school fees in state universies and colleges throughout the Philippines, removing nancial barriers to higher educaon. His contribuons even extend beyond the walls of the legislature, as outside of his role in government, Romero is a successful businessman who has created tens of thousands of job opportunies across various industries. His family is at the forefront of diverse sectors, including power distribuon through Crown Investments and the Zamboanga City Electric Cooperave IMC, power generaon with 1Power, Fort Pilar Energy, and ADSI Solar, and ports and terminals with Globalport Terminals in mulple locaons across the Philippines.Awarded Honorary Congressman of the Year23
Awarded Honorary Congressman of the Year24 But it’s in the realm of sports that Romero’s contribuons as a public servant are most personal. As an athlete himself, he understands the transformave power of sports in the lives of the youth. He was the captain of the Naonal team that brought home a bronze medal in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games Compeon. In 2012, Romero led his polo team to victory in the United States Polo Associaons’ Midwest 12 Goal Tournament. He was also the youngest Federaon President of both the Philippine Sports Associaons of Shoong and Cycling. In 2007, he generously nanced the Philippine Naonal Basketball Team, leading them to a gold medal nish in the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand and the Southeast Asian Basketball Associaon (SEABA) Gold Medal in Indonesia. His contribuons earned him the tle of the “Godfather of Philippine Amateur Basketball” in 2007 and 2008 by the Philippine Sportswriters Associaon. Romero has played an integral role in the House of Representaves. He served as the Senior Deputy Speaker in charge of Polical Aairs from 2019 to 2022, and he was elected as the Deputy Chairman of the House of Representaves’ conngent to the Annual Philippine bicameral budget conferences for the years 2021 and 2022. Romero also led the 54-member Party List Coalion (PLC) group during his leadership tenure in the 18th Congress. It was under his guidance that the Party List Coalion transformed into a formidable force and a pivotal swing vote in Congress. As he connues to serve in the 19th Congress, Rep. Mikee Romero has been appointed as the chairperson of the House Commiee on Poverty Alleviaon. He recognizes the urgency of his mission as the naon recovers from the Covid-19 pandemic. Poverty and disaster resilience are inextricably linked, and Romero remains dedicated to championing the wellbeing of the marginalized. His work is not only essenal for poverty alleviaon but also for sustainable development. The connecons between disaster resilience and poverty are undeniable. In the Philippines, as in many other vulnerable regions, the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, like typhoons and droughts, threaten the lives of countless individuals. They are displaced from their homes, and their access to food and means of livelihood hangs in the balance. Romero knows that poverty and disaster resilience are intertwined, and he understands that liing people out of poverty is the key to empowering them to play a role in making sustainable development a reality. In Congressman Mikee Romero, we nd a dedicated and visionary leader who understands that every acon we take reverberates through our society and the natural world. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of the underprivileged, his relentless pursuit of transformave legislaon, and his dedicaon to service are the hallmarks of a Congressman of the Year. Romero’s work reminds us that, indeed, in serving the marginalized, we pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all. The recognion he has received from numerous award-giving bodies in his rst six years in oce is a testament to the lasng impact he has had on the lives of the Filipino people. The impact of his eorts extended to professional sports as well. In 2010, Romero co-founded the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL), the rst professional regional basketball league in Southeast Asia. His team, the Philippine Patriots, emerged as the inaugural champions of the ABL. He was elected Chairman of the Philippine Basketball Associaon (PBA) in 2016 and was also one of the founders of Philippine Baseball in 2010, the rst professional baseball league in the country. His leadership extended to the 2012 London Olympics, where he served as the Ocial Team Leader for the Philippine Olympic team. He also provided support and recognion to our Olympian Medalists: Hidilyn Diaz, Eumir Marcial, Carlo Paalam, and Nesthy Petecio. In the 19th Congress, he connues to lobby the passage of Department of Sports which aims to provide world class sports development to our Filipino athletes.
NATION BUILDERSRep. Duterte was born in Davao City on March 24, 1975. He is the eldest child of the former Davao City Mayor, Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, and Elizabeth Zimmerman. His sister Sara is the incumbent Vice President of the country, while his brother Sebasan is the mayor of Davao City. He completed his primary and secondary educaon at the Philippine Women’s College (PWC) of Davao in 1991. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Banking and Finance at the University of Mindanao in 2001 and earned a Master’s in Public Administraon in 2009 at the University of Southeastern Philippines. He also completed a Doctorate in Public Administraon in 2015 at the Lyceum-Northwestern University. Pursuing his dream of becoming a pilot, he obtained his Airplane Private Pilot License at Mactan Aviaon Technology Center Inc. Pilot School in 2018. He is working on his Commercial and Mul-Engine Pilot License and Helicopter Pilot Training at CheynAir Aviaon. Pulong is married to January Navares, incumbent Barangay Chairman of Catalunan Grande in District 1 Davao City. He has ve children: Omar Vincent, Rodrigo II, Isabelle Lovelie, Sabina, and Paolo II, and two grandchildren, Rodrigo III and Arturo Vincent.AWARDED HONORARYCONGRESSMANOF THE YEARHON. PAOLO “PULONG” Z. DUTERTEREPRESENTATIVE, 1ST DISTRICT OF DAVAO CITYIMPROVING PEOPLE’S LIVES IS CONGRESSMAN PULONG’S PASSION25
Promoting community services and ensuring human safety are always the priorities of Davao City First Congressional District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Z. Duterte. These principles come from his upbringing in a secure family and his belief that having a blessed life must be spent well serving others.Awarded Honorary Congressman of the Year26
POLITICAL CAREERBEFORE CONGRESSCONGRESSMANPULONG PULONG NI PULONG (PPP) PROGRAMLEGISLATIVE OUTPUT Rep. Duterte intends to uphold the Duterte legacy by ensuring a blend of strength and care in his service. His dedicaon, determinaon, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in placing the needs of the marginalized people at the forefront through legislave eorts. In October 2018, Rep. Duterte, accompanied by his sister Inday Sara and brother-in-law Manases Carpio, led his Cercate of Candidacy (COC) for a congressional seat in the rst district of Davao City. He got the post aer the landslide victory in the 2019 Philippine Mid-Term Elecons. Rep. Duterte agreed to serve as Deputy Speaker for Polical Aairs under House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano of Taguig City of the 18th Congress of the Philippines in July 2019. He once pursued the posion of speakership, but he swily withdrew his candidacy and established the Duterte Coalion composed of fellow lawmakers. In 2019, Congressman Pulong carried forward the “Pulong Pulong ni Pulong” (PPP) iniave, which he led while serving as the vice mayor of Davao City. Through this ecient approach to addressing crical issues at the local level, barangay ocials could eecvely express their ideas about vital projects within their communies. While in Congress, Rep. Duterte introduced House Bill 500, which seeks to “formalize the community-driven development strategy for poverty reducon by granng authority to each barangay for parcipatory planning, budgeng, and decision-making.” To enhance the government’s ability to idenfy and meet the requirements of individual communies accurately, he suggested an approach to development planning that originates from the grassroots level. This method recognizes the varying geographical and socioeconomic contexts of each barangay. During his inial year in oce, Rep. Duterte advocated for approving 63 House Bills and House Resoluons. Among these, he craed 33 House Bills and seven House Resoluons. Among the menoned laws, six were successfully enacted, 17 secured approvals from the House and forwarded to the Senate, and 29 are presently awaing consideraon by the relevant commiees. The legislave outcomes he has produced prove his unwavering commitment to causes that bring advantages not just to the constuents of Davao’s inial district but to all cizens of the Philippines. Rep. Duterte has consistently given precedence to craing laws centered around healthcare, educaon, tax restructuring, senior cizens’ well-being, and iniaves to accelerate the country’s shi towards a digital economy. The lawmaker shares that his approach to leadership, akin to his father’s, is focused on achieving concrete outcomes. In contrast to his father and siblings, he possesses a unique leadership style characterized by a preference for maintaining a modest presence while eecvely fullling his responsibilies. Rep. Duterte entered the polical arena in 2007 where he served as Barangay Chairman of the Catalunan Grande in Davao City unl 2013. He was also elected as the President of the Associaon of Barangay Captains (ABC) in 2008 which earned him a seat in the Davao City Council as ABC Sectoral Representave. He went on to serve as the Naonal Vice President for Mindanao of the Liga ng Mga Barangay from 2011 to 2013. In 2013, Pulong ran unopposed and eventually elected as the Vice Mayor of Davao City. During his rst term, he established the Pulong ni Pulong (PPP) program to encouraged barangay ocials to be more involved in delivering the needs of their constuents. As a former Barangay Chairman, PPP became his plaorm in resolving issues in the barangay level and giving the barangay ocials opportunity to voice out their concerns and lobby for crical projects needed in their respecve barangays. In 2016, Pulong served his second term as Vice Mayor. As much as he wanted to complete his term, he resigned on December 25, 2017, cing the resignaon was made out of “delicadeza”.Awarded Honorary Congressman of the Year27
COVID-19 PANDEMICFAST-FORWARD TO PRESENT To migate the impact of the naonal health emergency due to the coronavirus pandemic, wherein thousands of people lost their jobs following the closure of business establishments, the Oce of Rep. Duterte distributed food packs to 54 barangays in Davao City District 1, provided cash assistance to tricycle drivers and muslim indigents through his Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) nancial assistance program, and released emergency employment assistance package under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ang Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) to drivers, solo parents, barbers, hairdressers, nail technicians, and massage therapists, among others. The congressman’s oce has facilitated cash assistance for the drivers before. Rep. Duterte also helped tricycle drivers through the 30-day cash for work in line with the TUPAD program last year. In addion to nancial and food assistance, Rep. Duterte’s oce distributed face masks and other medical equipment and supplies to various hospitals, barangays, municipalies, and cies. His oce assisted 22,253 paents and 575 senior cizens at Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), 1,204 cancer paents, and 24,040 paents in private hospitals. He aided 26,673 families in burial, as well. Rep. Duterte also aided 5,357 re vicms and 2,607 ood vicms per family, and 78,451 idened beneciaries under the TUPAD program. His oce assisted 1,600 college and 344 TESDA scholars, 40 postgraduates in medicine, and seven postgraduates in law school. His oce has provided three more transporter ambulance vehicles to barangays that do not have one and turned over nine mul-purpose buildings, one re staon, and two evacuaon centers-covered courts to their respecve beneciaries. The lawmaker has led the construcon of several infrastructures, such as drainage systems, roads, revetment, water systems, creeks, bypass roads, and seawalls. His oce also accommodated 436 solicitaons and gave tents, wheelchairs, nebulizers, and hearing aids to beneciaries. Rep. Duterte is the second termer member of the HOR elected on May 9 in the 2022 naonal polls. He served the rst term in the same posion aer being elected last May 2019. The lawmaker has a track record of eecvely running a government oce. For the young lawmaker, helping to improve the lives of the public and make posive changes, in general, is an unwrien qualicaon one must have upon entry to public service and throughout the journey. With such a great mind, Rep. Duterte’s persistence has paid o. The majority chose him based on the recent surveys of the RP-Mission Development Foundaon Inc. (RPMD) and the ‘Tangere’ Senatorial Survey, respecvely. Rep. Duterte recently garnered 84.7 percent, reecng a notable 3.4 percent increase from 81.3 percent on the April 2023 poll, according to the survey conducted by the RP-Mission Development Foundaon Inc. (RPMD). He also got 37 percent in the Tangere senatorial poll, which puts him in ninth place. The congressman welcomed the latest survey results and thanked the general public for their endless support of him and to Davao City. Rep. Duterte vowed to connue promong community services and support his district and those in need. Rep. Duterte has consistently demonstrated a solid commitment to enhancing the well-being of the people he served, as shown in his accomplishments in his rst year as a second termer in the House of Representaves (HOR). The lawmaker released on June 30, Friday, his accomplishments from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. He highlighted the 169 House Bills he had authored, of which ve were enacted into law, while others are sll pending in the dierent commiees in the HOR, and some were in the Senate for reading. Among his House Bills are 04696 and 02384, an act protecng senior cizens from violence and providing them opportunies, respecvely; 05074, an act providing Filipinos’ free annual medical checkups; and 06743, an act where parents of children with disability will get a monthly subsidy. Rep. Duterte also cited achievements in various projects, such as medical and burial assistance, emergency response, educaonal aid, Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ang Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and infrastructure.Awarded Honorary Congressman of the Year28
NATION BUILDERSAWARDED HONORARYCONGRESSWOMANOF THE YEARHON. EMMARIE “LOLYPOP” OUANO-DIZONREPRESENTATIVES, LONE DISTRICT OF MANDAUE CITYTHE HISTORIC FIRST REPRESENTATIVE OF THE LONE DISTRICT OF MANDAUE CITYNever has Mandaue City been showered with big-cket projects from the naonal government than during the me of Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon, the historic rst ever Mandaue City Lone District representave. Born and raised in Mandaue City, Ouano-Dizon, who ran unopposed in the last elecons, is focused on her goals to deliver services to improve the living condions of Mandauehanons, to be their anchor during crisis, and endeavor to eventually solve, one project at a me, the ooding and other problems that plague Mandaue. Ouano-Dizon’s life in public service can be summed up by a phrase from leadership mentor and community advocate Wayne Muller: “nding rest, renewal, and delight” in her life as public servant, notwithstanding the never-ending busyness. For far beyond her legislave work of craing laws, aending sessions, and being acve in Congressional commiees, what keeps Ouano-Dizon’s heart beang for public service is her vision to make every Mandauehanon feel that the government is working for them. The fact that she was unopposed in the last elecons is a testament to, and a validaon of, the people’s belief in her results-oriented leadership. 29
Public service is in her blood. Her grandfather was the former three-term mayor of Mandaue City, Alfredo “Pedong” Ouano, known as Mandaue’s Old Man who sat in the council of elders of One Cebu, the strongest reigning local party. It was this Ouano-Dizon’s ascendant who made possible the Mandaue City Reclamaon Project which played a pivotal role in the city’s development by changing the physical and economic landscape of Mandaue.Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year30
Her family history and polical lineage led to a lifeme of exposure that honed her heart for development and for public welfare. She started her work as secretary to her father, Pedong’s son Thadeo, who also served nine years as mayor and was also a member of the Provincial Board. She won a seat in the Mandaue City Council in 2010 where she pushed her advocacy for the youth and for senior cizens. Aer only one term in the Council, she rose to become the city’s rst councilor. Today, Ouano-Dizon is the chairperson of the House Commiee on People’s Parcipaon, which handles all maers relang to the “role, rights and responsibilies of people’s organizaons; and the establishment of adequate mechanisms for consultaon with and parcipaon of the people in the aairs of government.” She is also member of the powerful House Commiee on Appropriaons and Commiee on Accounts, and a member for majority of the House Commiees on Tourism, Visayas Development, Welfare of Children, Social Services, and Disaster Resilience. She uses her voice in Congress to lobby and inuence for the inclusion for Mandaue City of a massive ood control and other infrastructure projects in the Philippines’ General Appropriaons Act. In 2023 alone, the total budget allocated for Mandaue City’s ood control is at an unprecedented P1.3 billion, equivalent to nearly 25 percent of the cost projected to solve ooding in the city. For this year, Congresswoman Lolypop funneled over P3 billion worth of projects for Mandaue City, composed of the following items as follows:• Flood Control Projects in Butuanon River and major creeks – P1.33 billion• Mul-purpose Buildings, Covered Courts, Schools - P416 million• Asphalt Overlay – P378 million• Bridge Rehabilitaon, Widening and Retrong – P295 million• Streetlights – P272 million• Drainage Projects – P154 million• Road Concreng, Rehabilitaon and Upgrading – P147 million• Water System – P30 million Big cket infrastructure projects have also been completed in 2022, foremost of which is the P890-million worth of ood control project in the Municipality of Consolacion, and the P120-million causeway project in barangay Tayud, also of the same municipality, to serve as a major alternave access road that will decongest the worsening trac congeson in the area.Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year31
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year32 She facilitated the compleon of a string of covered courts and mul-purpose buildings all across Mandaue’s barangays, among which is the P5-million worth Alternave Learning Center Building in Barangay Ibabao, the rst and biggest in the enre Region 7. Her Medical Assistance to Indigent Program (MAIP) is at P82 million, made available not only through government health care facilies but also in almost all private terary hospitals. A whopping P153 million also go directly to Mandauehanons who need medical and burial assistance. Health has always been the priority of Congresswoman Lolypop, who facilitated the allocaon of P165 million from Sen. Koko Pimentel to build an 8-storey building to expand the services of the Eversley Childs Sanitarium General Hospital in Mandaue.
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year33 Meanwhile, a P20-million allocaon is meant for educaonal assistance to students for the year 2023 while for next year, Labogon Elementary School alone will get P72.1 million to improve the learning condions of its elementary students. During her rst term as congresswoman she led the bill which was instrumental in Integrang the Consolacion Community College into the Cebu Technological University (CTU) to be known as the CTU-Consolacion Campus, an enduring legacy that are sll beneng students in Consolacion and will connue to benet generaons upon generaons of youth. To improve the lives and livelihoods of her constuents, Congresswoman Lolypop has consistently been acvely making sure that skills trainings are available to Mandauehanons who need it. As a maer of fact, recognizing that tourism is an integral part in the economic acvies that spur livelihood opportunies in any community, she was also principal author of House Bill No. 8954 which aims to give Basic First Aid Training to Tourism Enterprises. Other signicant bills with Congresswoman Lolypop as author are: • House Bill No. 8955 or the New Government Auding Code• House Bill No. 8956 or the Priority Seang for Elderly, mandang others to vacate and designate seats in favor of senior cizens, aording our elderly of a yet another privilege that they righully deserve for their invaluable contribuons in naon-building. • House Bill No. 9013 or the Amendment of the Cooperave Code and• House Bill No. 9014 or the New Government Procurement Code which introduces innovaons to help make the procurement process more transparent, faster, and more ecient which will focus more on the quality of the goods, materials, and services.
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year34She also co-authored the following:• House Bill No. 67 - Providing for the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers• House Bill No. 498 - Instuonalizing Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situaon (AICS) Program• House Bill No. 1449 - Increasing Compensaon of Social Workers in Government Service, and• House Bill No. 3081 - Establishing Regional Branches of Specialty Hospitals such as PhilHeart Center, NKTI, Lung Center, Phil. Children’s Medical Center and Phil. Cancer Center Aside from gargantuan infrastructure projects that pave the way for the overall development of the 27 barangays in Mandaue City, the year 2023 connues to be one of the hallmark years for Congresswoman Lolypop, who has helped more than 35,000 individuals this year either through medical, burial, food, educaonal, cash relief, re or livelihood assistance, and trainings for livelihood and employment. Without doubt, the best years for Mandaue City under Congresswoman Lolypop have yet to come.
NATION BUILDERSAWARDED HONORARYCONGRESSWOMANOF THE YEARHON. LANI MERCADO-REVILLAREPRESENTATIVE, 2ND DISTRICT OF CAVITEIt’s a Sunday, and Congresswoman Lani Mercado-Revilla—aer a week of meeng with provincial ocers, teachers, and barangay ocials—decides to spend me with those closest to her heart, the Bacooreño. Along with her son Ram and her granddaughter Alexa, Cong. Lani is distribung sacks of rice, along with kilo upon kilo of lapia freshly caught from the family shpond. She assists in packing up the freshwater shes, which are sll wriggling alive. One aempts to get away from her, but Cong. Lani is a determined woman. She grabs the sh, packs it up, and moves on. When the second district of Bacoor was created in 2010, Lani Mercado-Revilla was the rst district representave to be elected. At the me, she was beer known as an actress, television host, mother, and of course, wife to Bong Revilla, Jr. While she had held various administrave posions in several organizaons, her polical acumen was yet to be seen. But Cong. Lani was not only diligent learner, she was also a purposeful one. 35
It was she who led the bill converng the municipality of Bacoor into a component city in 2011, which was signed into law the following year. The conversion brought in a period of growth and development as it enhanced the local government’s capability to deliver services and smulate economic progress. Today, aer more than a decade’s worth of public service, Cong. Lani brings to the plenary her execuve experience as mayor of the City of Bacoor as well as her polical savvy as an accomplished legislator. These represent the ways by which Cong. Lani serves her constuents through the legislaon she cras and the social services she facilitates. On her rst term as representave, Cong. Lani led a bill establishing the Bacoor District Hospital. This was way back 2010. The district hospital would eventually be upgraded into a regional hospital known as the Southern Tagalog Regional Hospital (STRH), and Cong. Lani is sll bent on shepherding its development. She led House Bill 2534 to make STRH into a 300 bed-capacity, terary hospital. That’s how commied she is into making sure Bacooreños have beer access to healthcare.ALAGANG ATE LANILINGAP, AKSYON, NANAY, and INSPIRASYONLINGAPAwarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year36
More than strengthening healthcare instuons, her oce facilitates direct assistance to Bacooreños for medical needs and funeral expenses. Her oce has thus far dispensed P98 million through the Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situaons (AICS) program. She has also coordinated medical aid totaling P17 million through the Department of Health’s Medical Assistance to Indigent Paents (MAIP) program. The Resources Educaon Vocaonal Instrucon Livelihood Learning Academic (REVILLA) Center is another instuon close to her heart. In collaboraon with the Technical Educaon and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), this center makes vocaonal training available to Bacooreños who are looking to level up their skills, kickstart their careers, or start their own businesses. Under her leadership as chief execuve, the center has undergone impressive expansion and facility upgrades. Cong. Lani has currently provided some P13 million in TESDA scholarships to empower Bacooreños with valuable skills and opportunies for a brighter future. Here’s yet another example of how commied Cong. Lani is towards improving the lives of her constuents. She championed the creaon of the One Town One Product Hub at Main Square Mall in the City of Bacoor. This OTOP Hub showcases products not only from Bacoor but also from neighboring towns and cies in Cavite and nearby provinces. It’s a denive boost for small and medium-sized enterprises, and it’s no surprise that she strongly supported the One Town, One Product bill, which has since become a law. As a public servant, Cong. Lani knows the crical importance of digitalizaon and disaster response in public service. Prior to the pandemic, she spearheaded the Revenue Administraon and Modernizaon Program (RAMP), with the backing of the Department of Finance. This iniave laid the groundwork for the digital transformaon of Business One Stop Shop (BOSS), which went online in November 2019. BOSS was invaluable, parcularly during extended community lockdowns. In October 2021, Bacoor’s “Bilis Serbisyo, Alaga Ka Bacoor” program was recognized in the Best in Government Internal Operaons Category as part of the Digital Governance Awards of the Department of Informaon and Communicaons Technology.Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year37AKSYON
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year38 Furthermore, in March 2021, she introduced the Barangay E-Governance Informaon Network (BEGIN), which played a crucial role in eciently distribung aid, facilitang vaccine registraon, and managing vaccinaon schedules. In her legislave eorts, she is supporng House Bill 004, which seeks to establish the Electronic Commerce Bureau with the objecve of safeguarding both consumers and merchants engaged in online transacons. Mindful of the country’s ranking as a high disaster risk, she took addional steps to bolster the city’s capacity for emergency response. This involved supervising the construcon and successful compleon of the Bacoor City Resiliency Building. The City of Bacoor is Cong. Lani’s constant source of strength and inspiraon. In House Bill 9087, establishing the Sentrong Pangkultura at Museo ng Lungsod ng Bacoor, she seeks to preserve the unparalleled history and remarkable tradions of the city. Not only is Bacoor the Marching Band Capital of the Philippines, it also played a singular role in the country’s history. Indeed, one of the pieces of legislaon that Cong. Lani is most passionate about is the recognion of August 1, 1898 as the day of promulgaon of the solemn declaraon of Philippine Independence. Approved in Congress and transmied to the Senate, House Bill 5078 will give the City of Bacoor its righul place in our naon’s journey towards independence. It’s a Sunday, and Cong. Lani, her son, and her granddaughter have distributed countless packs of rice and lapia to their beloved Bacooreños. A thousand families would have for their Sunday lunch these freshwater shes, and Cong. Lani is pleased no end, having brought joy, and happy tummies, to her constuents. Like others, Cong. Lani believes that educaon is the best gi that a parent can give to his child. As the oen-called “mother” of the City of Bacoor, educaon stands as one of her most passionate advocacies. She has dedicated herself to the establishment of numerous schools for Kabataang Bacooreño. Notably, the Mariano Gomes Naonal High School, a bill principally authored by Cong. Lani, has received approval through Republic Act 11946. Addionally, House Bill 8701 for the Progressive Senior High School and House Bill 8702 for the Progressive Elementary School have been approved by the House and are currently under discussion in the Senate. Another source of pride for Cong. Lani is the Bacoor Naonal Science High School, established through House Bill 6220, which promises to elevate the standard of educaon in the City of Bacoor signicantly. In her unwavering commitment to providing shelter, Cong. Lani’s eorts have been reless. Her oce has successfully relocated nearly 5,000 Informal Seler Families (ISFs) residing in hazardous areas to Naonal Housing Authority (NHA) project sites situated in Naic, Cavite. Furthermore, approximately 1,440 Bacooreño families have found new homes in Ciudad De Strike Phase 1 in Molino I, which represents an in-city pilot vercal Community Mortgage Program (CMP) managed by the Socialized Housing and Finance Corporaon (SHFC). The Ciudad Kaunlaran Phase 1 reselement project aims to deliver 1,860 housing units for ISF beneciaries. Addionally, there is Ciudad Malasakit, a temporary shelter project with 200 units designed for crisis evacuaon purposes.NANAYINSPIRASYON
NATION BUILDERSAWARDED HONORARYCONGRESSWOMANOF THE YEARHON. BERNADETTE “BH” HERRERAREPRESENTATIVE, PARTYLIST - BHA BEACON OF CHANGE AND COMPASSION IN PHILIPPINE POLITICSIn the realm of Philippine polics, few gures shine as brightly as Congresswoman Bernadee Herrera. Her journey through public service is a testament to her unwavering dedicaon to her community, her constuents, and our naon. From her early days as a passionate advocate to her current role as a respected legislator, Congresswoman Herrera has consistently championed causes close to her heart. She embarked on her educaonal journey at the University of the Philippines - Diliman, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Economics. While juggling the rigors of university life, she remained rmly dedicated to contribung to her community. In fact, it was during her formave years at UP Diliman that Congresswoman Herrera’s commitment to public service truly blossomed. She volunteered as a teacher, oering her me and experse to educate impoverished students. Her dedicaon to helping those in need was further fueled by the encouragement and endorsement of the late President Corazon Aquino, a tribute to her potenal as a force for change. Eventually, she graduated with honors and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business economics. She then went on to obtain her Master of Finance in the year 2000 in the same university. 39
With this deep-rooted sense of community, she was the rst in her family to throw her hat into the polical arena when she ran as councilor in Quezon City back in 2001. Her elecon to this posion made her the youngest City Councilor in the district’s history, which aests to her leadership abilies and dedicaon to her constuents. Congresswoman Herrera also started Bagong Henerasyon (BH), a nongovernment organizaon in 2001, and established the mul-awarded Bagong Henerasyon Foundaon, Inc. (BHFI) in 2003, that has become her backbone in providing quality service to those in need. From its incepon, BH and BHFI have achieved remarkable success by establishing computer learning centers that oer complimentary computer training services throughout Quezon City. In 2004, they introduced the pioneering Computer School-on-Wheels (COWs) program in the Philippines, which reached various barangays and public schools in Quezon City. Its value was so evident that the Quezon City government embraced the iniave by launching the e-School-on-Board program, with BH playing a pivotal role. The impact of COWs extended beyond Quezon City, as Navotas City and the provinces of Pangasinan and Laguna also embraced the program. In response to increasing demand, BH expanded its eet of COWs to include various regions, such as Bulacan and Aklan, and accommodated other areas upon request.For her outstanding performance and contributions, she was awarded “Congressman of the Year” in 2022 by the Nation Builders & Mosliv AwardsAwarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year40
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year41 True to the spirit of Bagong Henerasyon, Congresswoman Herrera connuously introduces innovave programs that bring services directly to the doorsteps of her constuents. Following the success of COWs, she introduced iniaves like Skills-on-Wheels, Mobile Clinics, Teen Mobile Centers, Kindergarten-on-Wheels, and welding-on-Wheels, all aimed at addressing the evolving needs of her community. Throughout her three-term, nine-year tenure in local public service, Congresswoman Herrera focused on iniaves aimed at strengthening good governance and sound scal management in Quezon City. Her eorts were widely recognized, earning her mulple presgious awards. She was awarded as the Most Promising Councilor of 2001, and was also awarded the Most Outstanding Councilor from 2002 to 2004. Accordingly, she was inducted into the Hall of Fame for being the Most Outstanding Councilor for three consecuve years. She likewise received three disnguished awards from the Quezon City Press Associaon, namely the “Most Promising Councilor,” the “Outstanding Councilor,” and the presgious “Hall of Fame Award.” These accolades reect her consistent dedicaon to excellence in public service. Her achievements even go beyond local recognion, as Congresswoman Herrera’s commitment to legislaon and public service has been acknowledged with various naonal awards. Some of these include the “Huwarang Pilipino Award in Legislaon,” recognion by the “City Councils Premyo Konseho,” the esteemed “Consumer’s Choice Award,” and the presgious “Dangal ng Pilipinas” award. In addion to these honors, Congresswoman Herrera’s reless eorts in public service have been recognized by naonal agencies. She has received the “CSC Lingkod Bayan Award” from the Civil Service Commission, the “TESDA Naonal Kabalikat Award” from the Technical Educaon and Skills Development Authority, and the esteemed “Huwarang Batas Award.” These awards underscore her signicant impact on various aspects of governance and community development, and arm her exemplary contribuons to improving the lives of her constuents and the broader community. Her journey in Congress began in 2010, and right o the bat, she iniated a courageous invesgaon into the water concessions in Metro Manila. Undaunted by powerful interests, she stood up to the giants and, aer a decade-long bale, achieved a signicant victory. Her eorts led to the reclassicaon of these concessionaires as public ulity companies, subject to auding by the Commission on Audit (COA) and constrained by a 12% Return on Investment (ROI) cap. This landmark decision brought transparency and accountability to a crucial sector of public services. Thereaer, in 2016, she assumed the role of Assistant Majority Leader while also chairing the Commiee on Public Informaon. Her leadership in these capacies laid the foundaon for her subsequent ascent in the polical arena. Notably, Congresswoman Herrera’s advocacy extends to scal responsibility and government accountability. Her reputaon for excellence in budget scruny was established in 2016, highlighng her keen understanding of nancial maers and her dedicaon to maximizing the use of earmarked revenues and o-budget accounts. Her work in this area underscores her commitment to ensuring that public funds are ulized eciently and eecvely for the benet of the Filipino people. In addion to her nancial acumen, Congresswoman Herrera has also championed the cause of water regulaon reform. Her eorts have resulted in the establishment of a more independent MWSS Regulatory Oce, distancing it from undue inuence from concessionaires. This move has facilitated the government’s direct provision of salaries to MWSS employees, a crucial step towards beer governance in the water sector. Moreover, her iniaves have paved the way for important developments in water and wastewater management. In 2019, she connued to serve as Deputy Majority Leader, and her dedicaon and competence led her to the presgious posion of Deputy Speaker. During this period, she chaired the Commiee on Public Informaon and later assumed leadership of the Commiee on Women and Gender Equality. Her reless eorts in these roles contributed to her reputaon as a commied advocate for gender equality and transparency in government.
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year42 Building on her successes, Congresswoman Herrera played a pivotal role in advancing key legislaon aimed at aligning Philippine laws with global standards. Her unwavering commitment to pushing for meaningful change resulted in the passage of signicant laws such as the “Ease of Doing Business Act” and the recent tax reform law. The “Ease of Doing Business Act” was a transformave piece of legislaon that aimed to streamline bureaucrac processes and make it easier for businesses to thrive in the Philippines. This law not only bolstered economic growth but also improved the overall business environment, fostering job creaon and investment. Addionally, Congresswoman Herrera’s advocacy for tax reform demonstrated her dedicaon to equitable taxaon. Her eorts resulted in the implementaon of a tax reform law that aimed to create a fairer and more sustainable tax system, ensuring that the burden of taxaon was distributed more equitably among cizens. Through her roles as Deputy Speaker of the House and Deputy Majority Leader, Congresswoman Bernadee Herrera has proven me and again that her commitment to serving the people and advancing the naon’s interests is unwavering. Her leadership, coupled with her reless pursuit of beer governance and legislaon, connues to have a profound impact on the Philippines, driving it towards a future aligned with global standards of excellence and progress. Behind the capvang charm and remarkable modesty of our disnguished guest, hides a erce acvist. She stands out for her combaveness, her reless convicons and especially her eloquence, which she put to good use at the House of Representaves, where she is serving her fourth term as the representave of Bagong Henerasyon Party-List. Among her more signicant achievements as a legislator are the passing of the Universal Health Care Law, the Universal Access to Quality Terary Educaon Act, the 100 Day Maternity Leave, the “Tulong Trabaho Act,” and of course, the Prohibion of Child Marriage Law. She was even recognized as a beacon of style and substance when she was presented as one of the “Best Dressed Style Icon of 2022” by People Asia. Recently, she also broke into the Top 6 of the latest RP-Mission and Development Foundaon Inc. (RPMD) survey on the country’s top performing party-list lawmakers, proof of her exceponal performance as a party-list legislator. Currently, she is championing a cause that transcends polical aliaons and geographic boundaries – the cause of ensuring a water-secure future for our beloved country. By being one of the main authors of the bill on the Naonal Water Act, she has denitely shown her unwavering dedicaon to the cause, her reless eorts in championing sustainable water management, and her vision for a water-secure country, and this has earned her a well-deserved place at the forefront of this naonal issue. Furthermore, Congresswoman Herrera is ardently advocang for the swi and spirited implementaon of the Expanded Solo Parents Act, coupled with an extensive outreach campaign to disseminate informaon about it. In sum, Congresswoman Herrera has cast a giant polical shadow that has touched, if not changed, the lives of many in the country for more than twenty years. But perhaps her more enduring achievements are in those she has helped, people whose lives were turned for the beer by her generosity and kindness.
NATION BUILDERSAWARDED HONORARYCONGRESSWOMANOF THE YEARHON. MA. CYNTHIA “CINDI” KING CHANREPRESENTATIVE, LONE DISTRICT OF LAPU-LAPU CITYTAKING PUBLIC SERVICE TO GREATER HEIGHTS:MARKING A NEW ERA IN OPONGANON POLITICSMa. Cynthia King Chan, also known as Cindi Chan, is the Representative of the Lone District of Lapu-Lapu City in the 19th Congress. She won an overwhelming victory in the 2022 elections with 147,631 votes, equivalent to 74.16% of the total votes. Despite being new to the political arena, the people of Lapu-Lapu City acknowledged her unwavering dedication to public service. They entrusted her to bring about positive change in their city. Rep. Cindi is determined to champion her constituents’ interests in Congress and spearhead projects that enhance their quality of life. She is resolute in making a real impact in her community.43
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year44THE MAKING OF A LEADER:REFINED AND PERFECTED THROUGH TIMETHE WORKING FIRST LADYRep. Cindi’s roles as a daughter, sister, wife, and mother were cherished before entering politics. Having been raised by her mother, Milagros Rallos Teves, after her father’s, Colonel Arnulfo King, early demise, Rep. Cindi faced challenges, including losing her younger brother, Clifford, who had cerebral palsy and died at age ve, and sister Kristine King to cancer. These experiences instilled in her a deep sense of compassion for women, children, and persons with disabilities.Following in her mother’s footsteps, Rep. Cindi is a devoted and hands-on mother to her four children, Justin Angelo, Jasmine Marie, Jorge Arnold, and Junard Cedric. Her dedication to her family extends to her constituents, numbering over 497,600, who look to her for hope and support.Rep. Cindi’s leadership style is empowering, reliable, and reassuring as a descendant of pioneering Cebuana leaders, including Cebu’s rst elected municipal president, Don Florentino Rallos, and Doña Maria Fadullon-Rallos. She has condently stepped out of her comfort zone to fulll her destiny as a congresswoman.In 2019, when Mayor Junard “Ahong” Q. Chan was elected Lapu-Lapu City Mayor—effectively ending the 18-year rule of a political clan—that Rep. Cindi joined him in local government. Just months before COVID-19 shook the world, She took on the role of Lapu-Lapu City Tourism, Cultural, and Historical Affairs Commission or TCHAC Chairperson without receiving any compensation from the government.Rep. Cindi’s extensive experience in the private sector, which spanned more than 20 years, and her exposure to international travel and marketing, proved valuable in performing her duties as the city’s culture and tourism ambassadress.When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, Lapu-Lapu City’s economy was devastated. Tourism—one of the main drivers of the local economy—suffered greatly because of the restrictions on travel and the imposition of community quarantines. Many lost their jobs and source of livelihood. Rep. Cindi’s resolve to help her people was further solidied during these most challenging times. Together with Mayor Ahong, they delivered necessities to Oponganons—rice, medicine, milk, diapers, etc. Being the servant-leaders that they are, Rep. Cindi and Mayor Ahong tirelessly reached out to those in need, day in and day out. The Oponganons looked to them for guidance and hope, and they did not fail them.The Lapu-Lapu City Government launched the “Balik Turismo” program in October 2020 to revive the tourism industry and support those whose livelihoods were affected by the pandemic. The community and tourism stakeholders wholeheartedly supported this initiative, and Lapu-Lapu City welcomed domestic tourists again through the Balik Turismo travel fair. Through this, ve-star resorts in the City were made available and affordable to local tourists to make ends meet on the side of the hotel and resort owners.Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Rep. Cindi impressively led the national celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Victory at Mactan on April 21, 2021, as well as the 501st closing ceremonies a year later. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and then Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Chairperson of the National Quincentennial Committee, attended the said national event, among others. The once-in-a-lifetime event was held at Liberty Shrine, where our local hero, Datu Lapulapu, won the iconic battle.Unfortunately, Lapu-Lapu City was hit by another setback in December 2021, when Super Typhoon Odette caused severe damage to homes, schools, establishments, and public infrastructure. Once again, Rep. Cindi stepped up to assist her people. As a result of her dedication, selessness, sincerity, and care for the Oponganons, Rep. Cindi was called to serve a higher purpose. From being a working rst lady, she was elected as the Representative of the Lone District of Lapu-Lapu City.
RISING TO THE OCCASIONAs one who never shies away from daunting tasks, Rep. Cindi courageously pursued the district representative position in Lapu-Lapu City. She had unwavering faith that her alliance with Mayor Ahong and the rest of the City Councilors would greatly benet her constituents. She centered her entire campaign around the empowering acronym “CINDI,” which she believed would deeply resonate with the people and help her achieve her objectives.“C” stands for children, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Rep. Cindi, being a mother, recognizes the value of education and aims to create a state college in Lapu-Lapu City, complemented with an annex in Olango Island to aid parents in seeing their children nish school. She also intends to prioritize women in her livelihood employment programs. Furthermore, she will assist the elderly and persons with disabilities and collaborate with national government agencies to guarantee their fundamental needs are met through her Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program and Medical Assistance to Indigent Patient Program. “I” for infrastructure. Rep. Cindi is committed to improving public infrastructure projects in Lapu-Lapu City. To achieve this, she hopes to establish a District Engineering Ofce to ensure prompt and efcient completion of these projects. With determination, she will also address the city’s ooding issue and resolve the unnished road works that have led to accidents and inconveniences for businesses.“N” for the new normal in tourism, recovery, and promotion. As a former TCHAC Chairperson, Rep. Cindi fully grasps the signicance of tourism and is determined to elevate tourism promotion to establish Lapu-Lapu City as a prominent tourism destination in the Visayas and the entire country.“D” stands for the dialysis center. Rep. Cindi and Mayor Ahong have long been determined to establish a dialysis center in Lapu-Lapu City Hospital. Rep. Cindi is well aware of the difculties faced by individuals undergoing dialysis treatment and understands the need for proper funding to ensure they receive the necessary care. To make this dream a reality, come September 2023, Lapu-Lapu City will soon launch its rst-ever dialysis center. Through her Medical Assistance to Indigent Patient Program, Rep. Cindi is generously providing free dialysis sessions to 21 patients impacted by the temporary closure of the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center - Renal Center. These individuals are currently receiving necessary care in private hospitals in Cebu at no cost.“I” for institutionalization of micronance programs and access to capital. Having worked in the nancial sector in the past, Rep. Cindi recognizes the need to make nancial assistance easily accessible to small entrepreneurs to help them start their businesses. Rep. Cindi’s unwavering commitment to her constituents is reected in her tagline, “CINDI CARES.” By prioritizing their interests and well-being in all policies and programs, she proves they are her top priority on the political agenda.Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year45
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year46HITTING THE GROUND RUNNINGRep. Cindi accomplished an impressive feat within the rst two months of the 19th Congress. She was elected Vice-Chairperson of three committees that closely align with her values: the Committee on Tourism, the Committee on Welfare of Children, and the Committee on Women and Gender Equality. Additionally, she was appointed as a member of seven House Committees, including Basic Education and Culture, Disaster Resilience, Games and Amusements, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Trade and Industry, Transportation, and Visayas Development.In under a year, Rep. Cindi, as Vice-Chairperson of the Committee on Tourism, represented the Philippines at two international tourism events. The rst was the 2022 Türkiye Tourism Roadshow and Uzakrota Travel Summit, and the second was the Arabian Travel Market 2023 in Dubai. During these events, she condently engaged with tourism stakeholders and effectively promoted the Philippines as a top tourist destination for Lapu-Lapu City and the entire country.Rep. Cindi’s performance in her rst year in ofce has been stellar. Rep. Cindi has demonstrated impressive legislative skills by authoring and co-authoring a total of 136 legislative measures, including some of the most notable ones, such as the Dialysis Center Act (House Bill No. 3719), the Philippine National Police Revitalization and Capability Enhancement Act (HB No. 8367), and the commemoration of the City of Lapu-Lapu’s charter anniversary (HB No. 739). Moreover, Rep. Cindi has proposed some game-changing bills, such as renaming the City of Lapu-Lapu to the City of Lapulapu (HB No. 3718) and increasing the number of the Board of Directors of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (HB No. 3960) to include a seat for the incumbent Mayor of the Lapu-Lapu City, or his authorized representative. Seeing such a competent and proactive representative in the legislative arena is remarkable.Thanks to Rep. Cindi’s hard work, the district will nally witness a signicant improvement in its infrastructure. With an impressive P1.405 billion secured for the scal year 2023, causeways, multipurpose buildings, covered courts, ood drainage control, and road asphalting will be constructed across various barangays. True to her word, Rep. Cindi has been bringing government services closer to home. For a period of one year since she assumed ofce, she had extended at least P9.14 million as medical/burial assistance to 1,060 beneciaries; educational assistance worth P2.88 million for 1,961 beneciaries; trained 426 scholars under TESDA for a total amount of P11.25 million; and extended P27.88 million in assistance to 6,411 beneciaries under the TUPAD Program. On top of these, Rep. Cindi, together with Mayor Ahong, regularly provides free services to her constituents through the “Libreng Serbisyo Program.” These include medical and dental services, vaccination and medicines, and livelihood training. She also provides free water to her constituents through her “Libreng Tubig Para sa Tanan” project.Despite being a neophyte legislator, Rep. Cindi has already achieved so much, and it is just the beginning as she intends to forge her path and be the best representative for her district. These accomplishments lend credence to her vow that she will be Mayor Ahong’s NUMBER ONE KAABAG or partner in public service. Their solid partnership—both in life and politics—can benet the Oponganons, to which onlookers can only say, “CHANa ALL.”
NATION BUILDERSAWARDED HONORARYCONGRESSWOMANOF THE YEARHON. SITTIE SHAHARA “BAI DIMPLE” I. MASTURAREPRESENTATIVE, LONE DISTRICT, MAGUINDANAO DEL NORTE WITH COTABATO CITYVICE CHAIRPERSON, COMMITTEE ON MUSLIM AFFAIRSVICE CHAIRPERSON, COMMITTEE ON WOMEN AND GENDER EQUALITY Known to many as “Bai Dimple”, Congresswoman Sie Shahara Ibrahim Mastura is a neophyte lawmaker represenng the lone district of Maguindanao del Norte with Cotabato City. She is the daughter of Director Nasser Panda Ibrahim, of the Land Transportaon Oce Region 9 eho hails from the province of Maguindanao and Hadja Elisa Montañer, a Maranao businesswoman originang from Malabang in the province of Lanao del Sur. Earning the tle of Juris Doctor, she nished Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at the Notre Dame University in Cotabato City and thereaer took and nished her Bachelor of Laws degree in the same university. She is a Shairah Law passer. In 2021, she completed her Masters Degree in Public Safety Administraon at the Philippine Public Safety College in Quezon City. Bai Dimple is married to the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines-Maguindanao del Norte with Cotabato City Chapter President Datu Shameem Biruar-Mastura of Sultan Kudarat of whom she is blessed with four children. Bai Dimple is married to the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines-Maguindanao del Norte with Cotabato City Chapter President Datu Shameem Biruar-Mastura of Sultan Kudarat of whom she is blessed with four children. Before joining polics, Bai Dimple has been on sidelines assisng her husband, then Mayor now Vice Mayor Datu Shameem in implemenng social services of the local government unit of Sultan Kudarat whilst aending to their children as a fullme mom and a businesswoman. Her exposure to public service with her husband and her personal engagements with the masses during various community immersions opened her eyes in the many social issues that need to be addressed head on, however joining the bandwagon of serving the community through polical parcipaon was, at that point, far from her mind. A WIFE AND MOTHER FIRST47
Aer the peace process between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberaon Front (MILF) came to an end which paved the way to the enactment of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, a law the governs the creaon of a polical enty which gives autonomy to the bangsamoro region called the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), then president Rodrigo Roa Duterte appointed Bai Dimple as among the government’s representaves in the Bangsamoro Transion Authority (BTA).The BTA is a transitory body which prepares the Bangsamoro parliament to the regular Bangsamoro autonomous government by legislang and enacng laws necessary for it to funcon autonomously. Bai Dimple is one of, if not, the youngest member of the parliament and has been involved in legislang several laws and creaon of dozens of resoluons that address governance, educaon, gender, peace and order, economy and other relevant issues in the Bangsamoro region. Her snt in the Parliament was further amplied through the birth of her civic foundaon called “LIMO”. BEGINNING OF PUBLIC SERVICE JOURNEY: THE BANGSAMORO TRANSITION AUTHORITYAwarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year48
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year49 LIMO is a Maguindanaoan term which means love, care, compassion. Translang it to public and humanitarian service, the terminology was coined into an acronym which means Livelihood, Intervenon on Women, Medical Assistance, Oplan Tulong. True to its meaning, Bai Dimple’s LIMO has reverberated not only in the province of Maguindanao, but perhaps in the enre Bangsamoro region through the number of people who beneed from her dierent social programs such as hospital bill and medical assistance, livelihood intervenon, women and youth development programs, educaon, agricultural development, including community infrastructure projects such as solar street lights, children’s playground, sea ambulance, farm to market roads, among others. She has also been a champion of women’s rights and has adopted numerous women’s groups and organizaons, subsidizing their programs and projects across Maguindanao province and the Bangsamoro region. Her advocacies touched the lives of many Bangsamoro people and have then been the core of her public service, that is #SerbisyongMayPuso. In 2022, Bai Dimple heeded the call of the majority and the masses to run for public oce and represent them in the naonal arena. She victoriously emerged as the representave of then Maguindanao’s rst legislave district which later on became the lone district of Maguindanao del Norte covering the municipalies of Sultan Kudarat, Sultan Mastura, Parang, Buldon, Matanog, Barira, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Datu Blah Sinsuat, North Upi, Talitay, Mother Kabuntalan, Northern Kabuntalan and Cotabato City. Her promising plaorm of government called “5 Pillars of Governance” centers on educaon, economy, environment, health and good governance enced the vong public, not to menon her charm and ability to perform her commitments brought her to the Congress, defeang a seasoned lawmaker and polical opponent by landslide of approximately 50,000 votes. In her desire to keep her presence and reachable to her constuents, she then established and opened, for the rst me in the history of the legislave district of Maguindanao del Norte, a congressional district oce in Cotabato City that is accessible to the people, 24/7. Her being neophyte does not hinder her from obtaining relevant memberships in various commiees in the Congress. In fact, she is the Vice Chairperson of the House Commiees on Muslim Aairs and Women and Gender Equality. She also holds membership in the dierent House Commiees such as the Commiees on Accounts, Appropriaons, Disaster Resilience, Housing and Urban Development, Indigenous Cultural Communies and Indigenous People, Inter Parliamentary Relaons and Diplomacy, Local Government, Mindanao Aairs, Poverty Alleviaon, Sustainable Development Goals, including the House Commiee on Youth and Sports Development. During her rst few months in the Congress, Bai Dimple immediately aended to some pressing issues of her district such as the long-me problem of electricity in the enre province of Maguindanao. It can be recalled that the province has been experiencing intermient outages due to the low power distribuon from an electric cooperave in the province. This prompted the lawmaker to meet with dierent relevant government agencies and power distribuon companies to nd viable soluons to the problem. This resulted in the stabilizaon of electric distribuon in the province and addressed other issues aributed to the said problem such as economy and peace and order. During the onslaught of Typhoon Paeng in 2022, her presence has been felt by her constuents all over the district and has been acvely providing assistance from one municipality to the next, ensuring immediate needs are provided to the typhoon vicms. In her privilege speech, she stood strong for the thousands of families aected by the typhoon, urging the naonal and local governments to revisit their respecve disaster and calamity preparedness programs, priority infrastructure projects and environmental protecon intervenons. It also paved the way to hasten the construcon and reconstrucon of roads and bridges that are devastated by the typhoon. In sum, around more than 40,000 families were given nancial and material assistance through her Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situaon (AICS) implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Moreover, around 2000 students have availed of the educaonal assistance provided by her oce through DSWD’s AICS program. To date, Bai Dimple provided medical assistance to around 6,500 individuals conned in dierent hospitals in the district through her Medical Assistance to Indigent Paents (MAIP) implemented by the Department of Health. Her hard work and personal engagements with dierent government agencies and naonal leaders paved the way for the commencement of various priority projects such as road construcon and maintenance in the naonal highways and roads connecng Sultan Kudarat, Sultan, Mastura, Parang and Matanog, including other road projects in Datu Odin Sinsuat town. It also paved the way for the inauguraon of two (2) irrigaon projects in Sultan Kudarat and Upi, the largest irrigaon facility that caters the agricultural structures of North and South Upi. THE BIRTH OF LIMO: SERBISYONG MAY PUSOREPRESENTING THE VOICES OF THE PEOPLE
Awarded Honorary Congresswoman of the Year50 Bai Dimple has amplied her polical plaorms through legislang various bills that correlate to her Pillar of Governance. As a Muslim woman legislator, she took advantage of her polical plaorm to spread awareness on a naonal scope the need to recognize the Muslim rights and culture. She is among the principal authors of HB 1363 declaring every 1st of February of every year as Naonal Hijab Day. She also co-authors HB06538 or An act Mandang the Allotment of a Prayer Room in Every Government Building, Military Camp, Hotel, Hospital, Mall, Factory and Other Business Establishments, Public or Private, and Providing Penales Therefor. Bai Dimple is the only Muslim legislator to have spearheaded the call for the provision of a prayer room in the Congress, which the house leadership has approved. Here are the other bills which she authors and/or co-authors: On Health: - HB07767- AN ACT ESTABLISHING SPECIALTY CENTERS IN HOSPITALS UNDER THE DIRECT SUPERVISION OF DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR- HB07327- AN ACT INCREASING THE BED CAPACITY OF THE COTABATO REGIONAL AND MEDICAL CENTER FROM SIX HUNDRED (600) BEDS TO ONE THOUSAND (1000) BEDS, UPGRADING ITS SERVICE FACILITIES, AND PROFESSIONAL HEALTH CARE SERVICES, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR; - HB06526- AN ACT CREATING THE PHILIPPINE CENTERS FOR DISEASE PREVENTION AND CONTROL, DEFINING THEIR POWERS AND FUNCTIONS AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOROn Good Governance: - HB07087- AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE AUTOMATIC INCOME CLASSIFICATION OF PROVINCES, CITIES, AND MUNICIPALITIES, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 8 OF RA 7260, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991, AS AMENDED. - HB07006- AN ACT REAPORTIONING THE LONE LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT OF MAGUINDANAO DEL NORTE WITH COTABATO CITY INTO TWO (2) LEGISLATIVE DISTRICTS; - HB07363- AN ACT ESTABLSIHING EVACUATION CENTERS IN EVERY CITY AND MUNICIPALITY, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR; - HB07354- AN ACT IMPLEMENTING THE RESOLUTION OF BOTH HOUSES NO. 6, OF THE CONGRESS OF THE PHILIPPINES CALLING FOR A CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION, TO PROPOSE AMENDMENTS TO OR REVISION OF, THE 1987 CONSTITUTION AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; - HB07352- AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE TRANSITION OF THE GOVERNMENT TO E-GOVERNANCE IN THE DIGITAL AGE, CREATING FOR THE PURPOSE THE PHILIPPINE INFOSTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT CORPORATION AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR; On Educaon: - HB07587- AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE SPECIAL PROGRAM IN CREATIVE ARTS FOR JUNIOR AND SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR; - HB06704- AN ACT INSTITUTING A NATIONAL CITIZENS SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAM IN ALL PUBLIC AND PRIVATE TERTIARY EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE, RA 9163, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “NATIONAL SERVICE TRAINING PROGRA ACT” AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR; On Economy: - HB07540- AN ACT PROMOTING ENTREPRENEURSHIP BY ESTABLISHING A SUSTAINABLE FINANCING PROGRAM FOR MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES THROUGH THE PONDO SA PAGBABAGO AT PAG-ASENSO PROGRAM, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR; - HB06687- AN ACT GRANTING FULL INSURANCE COVERAGE TO ALL AGRARIAN REFORM BENEFICIARIES” On Environment: - HB07939- AN ACT ADOPTING INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT AS A NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR THE HOLISTIC AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF COASTAL AND RELATED ECOSYSTEMS AND THE RESOURCES THEREIN FROM RIDGE-TO REEF, ESTABLISHING THE NATIONAL COASTAL GREENBELT ACTION PLAN, OTHER SUPPORTING MECHANISMS FOR IMPLEMENTATION, AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR; LEGISLATIVE AGENDA Her physical presence (who shows up almost every me for her constuents), including her compassion to rendering truthful public service has earned her the tle “KONGRESISTA NG MASA”, their real-life hero. Her impeccable leadership and accessibility make her one, if not, the most prominent go-to leader in mes of need. Her congressional district oce in Cotabato City never ran out of clients from “dusk ll dawn” seeking for assistance available just for the masses, making her the number 1 lawmaker in the enre BARMM region for two (2) consecuve seasons and the only woman Muslim legislator who made it to the Top 11 Best District Representaves in the Philippines” in a research-survey conducted by the RP-Mission and Development Foundaon. The study highlights the remarkable performance of Bai Dimple as the representave of Maguindanao del Norte with Cotabato City in terms of district representaon, legislaon and constuent-service. Indeed, Congresswoman Bai Dimple Mastura is an epitome of an empowered woman who responsibly makes use of her inuence, personal and polical, to foster and eect change in the lives of the people and the communies, near and far.
NATION BUILDERSMahew Marcos Manotoc is now in the second year of his second term as the Governor of Ilocos Norte. His leadership remains deeply commied to the Ilokano community, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his years in public service. Over the years, he has ensured that all investments across sectors are carefully evaluated to align with Ilocos Norte’s development goals. Having achieved a safer and stronger province in his rst term, today, he carries his vision of turning Ilocos Norte into a thriving business center in Northern Luzon and a gateway to East Asia. Governor Marcos Manotoc’s administraon has priorized infrastructure development to support Ilocos Norte’s transformaon into a commercial hub, capitalizing on the province’s strengths in healthcare, agriculture, tourism, natural resources, and its people. His commitment to holisc development is evident through innovave infrastructure projects, especially the highly ancipated “Big 3 Project.” This iniave encompasses the redevelopment of the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium, the construcon of the Dap-ayan Commercial Building, and the expansion of the Capitol Building. Ilocos Norte has also taken signicant strides in promong a sporng culture by iniang the establishment of the Ilocos Norte Sports Instute and Research to nurture young athletes. These projects aim to promote sports and wellness, drive local economic growth, and enhance community resilience, transform the delivery of public service, contribung to a more prosperous and sustainable future for Ilocos Norte.HON. MATTHEW JOSEPH MARCOS MANOTOCGOVERNOR, PROVINCE OF ILOCOS NORTE51AWARDED HONORARYGOVERNOROF THE YEAR
Governor Marcos Manotoc has extended a warm invitaon to both local and internaonal investors, marking a signicant step towards diversifying the province’s economy. The AC Energy-Bayog Wind Project in Pagudpud has achieved remarkable growth, emerging as the Philippines’ largest wind farm with a capacity of 160 MW. In parallel, the Vena Group, operang through Nuevo Solar Energy Corporaon, has expanded its solar energy producon in the province to an impressive 100MW. In addion, there have been achievements in improving the agricultural sector. The compleon of 83 Farm-to-Market Roads and the establishment of 13 solar-powered irrigaon systems underline Governor Marcos Manotoc’s vow to support local farmers, promote environmental stewardship, and enhance the province’s resilience against climate change. Under his agship agriculture program, “Agri Ka Dito!,” Governor Marcos Manotoc has provided signicant assistance amounng to P176 million to support local farmers and shermen.Awarded Honorary Governor of the Year52 This assistance includes the provision of essenal farming equipment such as combine harvesters, four-wheel tractors, hand tractors, mul-culvators, shredding machines, rice planters, and an impressive over 17,000 pieces of small farm equipment. Furthermore, valuable shing equipment has been distributed, beneng around 1,300 sherfolk in the province.
Ilocos Norte is renowned for its breathtaking natural aracons and Governor Marcos Manotoc has worked diligently to preserve and promote the province’s unique heritage while also fostering a thriving tourism industry. Under his leadership, Ilocos Norte’s tourism eorts have yielded impressive results. The province launched the “Lolita, I’m IN” Tourism Campaign last year, in collaboraon with inuencers, markeng, and promoonal acvies, which resulted in an esmated P8.8 billion in tourism receipts. Ilocos Norte also welcomed nearly three million visitors, marking a signicant increase from the 800,000 visitors in 2021. These accomplishments culminated in Ilocos Norte reclaiming the top spot in the “Best Tourism-oriented Local Government Unit” category and the province’s “Lolita is IN” video campaign secured the rst place in the “Best Tourism Promoon Video” category during the Associaon of Tourism Ocers in the Philippines and Department of Tourism Pearl Awards 2023. Governor Manotoc has taken the lead in the rehabilitaon of Tanap Avis Falls in Burgos, a prominent tourist aracon in the province. Addionally, a Tourist Rest Area will soon poise in Ilocos Norte, following the Department of Tourism’s groundbreaking ceremony at Saud Beach, Pagudpud.“Let us continue to build a province that we can all be proud of—one where a competent workforce, quality social services, and strong infrastructure are the pillars supporting our inclusive development,”- GOVERNOR MATTHEW JOSEPH MARCOS MANOTOCAwarded Honorary Governor of the Year53
Awarded Honorary Governor of the Year54 This project is strategically designed to leverage tourism as a vital economic catalyst for the Philippines’ recovery. New art installaons were added in the Ilocos Norte Sand Dunes in Paoay, specically the Reecon of Rebirth and the solar-powered cairn. Beyond the creaon of these aracons, Governor Manotoc is acvely elevang these public spaces to enrich and upli the quality of life of his kakailian (provincemates) through a renewed environment. He connues to priorize the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in the province, evident through various programs that provide nancial assistance, micro-nancing, starter kits, and equipment. This year, through his iniave, the province launched the Ilocos Norte MSME Incubaon Center to further support local businesses, ensuring their growth and resilience. The incubaon center is the rst of its kind in Region 1 and was recognized by the Naonal Economic and Development Authority which even gave the province an innovaon fund grant. In 2022 alone, the province disbursed over P9 million beneng almost 3,000 MSMEs. Moreover, Ilocos Norte has sustained its pop-up events and trade fairs, resulng in signicant success. The Producer-to-Consumer Program in San Juan City and Quezon City connues to operate exceponally well. Governor Marcos Manotoc rmly believes that making substanal contribuons to the well-being and vitality of his province is integral to building a more progressive community. Ilocos Norte’s employment rate has demonstrated this pledge, surging from 97.2% in 2021 to an impressive 98.9% in 2022, further solidifying its posion with the “Most Outstanding Provincial Public Employment Service Oce” in Region I, as recognized by the Department of Labor and Employment. In 2021, the Philippine Stascs Authority reported that Ilocos Norte achieved the region’s lowest poverty rate at 2.5%, signaling improved living condions and economic prospects for its people. These accomplishments have enhanced the province’s appeal to investors and smulate local economic growth. In his dedicaon to supporng his kakailian (provincemates), Governor Marcos Manotoc has implemented a range of employment and assistance programs. Notably, 641 students have beneted from the Special Program for Student Employment. “Naruay a Panggedan” quarterly job fairs have resulted in 5,860 applicants being hired on the spot, and the province has employed 600 tourism ambassadors through the Summer Tourism Operaons and Employment Program since last year. Furthermore, the Cash-for-Work program has assisted almost 2,300 individuals. With the province’s status as a top producer of high-value crops, a tourism hotspot, and a renewable energy capital, Governor Marcos Manotoc is pursuing his goal of making Ilocos Norte the commercial hub of Northern Luzon, one that adds value to the best things the province can oer: healthcare, agriculture, tourism, natural resources, and its people. As Ilocos Norte opens up great opportunies, Governor Marcos Manotoc priorizes the best interests of the Ilokanos, the environment, and local industries. Ilocos Norte is condent that, with its highly educated populace and strategic locaon, it is well-posioned to achieve greater progress now, more than ever. Looking ahead, Governor Manotoc acknowledges that this journey of the province is not a solitary one; it’s a path that Ilokanos must collecvely embark on.
NATION BUILDERSElected unopposed twice as Naonal President of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines (LVGP) on July 12, 2019 during the 76th Naonal Assembly and on July 13, 2022 during the 88th Naonal Assembly, both held in Manila, Ay. KATHERINE “Karen” CARTABIO AGAPAY of the Province of Laguna, is the rst Lady Vice Governor to be elected as such, since the league was founded in 1991. Hence, more gender-sensive topics were highlighted and introduced as part of the capacity development trainings of the Vice Governors. The recently elected ocers, namely: Hon. Ay. Reynaldo Quimpo of Aklan (Naonal Chairman), Hon. Cecilia Araneta - Marcos of Ilocos Norte (Execuve Vice President), Hon. Mark Lambino of Pangasinan (Vice President for Luzon), Hon. Chrisne Garin of Iloilo (Vice President for Visayas). Hon. Elmer de Peralta of Sarangani (Vice President for Mindanao), Hon. Mei Ling Quezon of Siquijor (Secretary General), Hon. Crisna Garcia of Bataan (Treasurer), Hon. Yusop Alano of Basilan (Auditor), Hon. Benglen Ecleo of Dinagat Islands (P.R.O.), and Hon. Grex Lagman of Albay (Vice Chairman), together with the Naonal Execuve Board, took their Oath of Oce, with His Excellency President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. at the Malacanan Palace on August 16, 2022. The DILG and Local Government Academy (LGA) training for Newly Elected Ocials and Refresher Course for our Vice Governors, immediately followed on August 17 – 19, 2022 at The Manila Hotel. A list of Naonal Assemblies is calendared for 2022 and 2023, beginning with Zamboanga City on October 20-23, 2022.AWARDED HONORARYVICE GOVERNOROF THE YEARATTY. KATHERINE C. AGAPAYVICE GOVERNOR – LAGUNANATIONAL PRESIDENT, LEAGUE OF VICE GOVERNORS OF THE PHILIPPINES (LVGP)55
During her rst term as Naonal President, despite the many factors that may dampen the desire to connue the work because of the pandemic, the “mother” of the league, Vice Governor Karen Agapay, together with the Execuve Commiee Members, introduced creave iniaves in the league’s programs to cope with the emerging new normal. They successfully launched the Online Capacity Development Program and Webinar Series “LGU Best Pracces in COVID-19 Crisis Management” with the University of the Philippines – Naonal College of Public Administraon and Governance (NCPAG)’s Center for Local and Regional Governance (CLRG). Naonal Assemblies were also held thru online with its usual updates on important government policies and programs, hosted as usual, by the league’s Vice Presidents of the three (3) islands. The league also maintained a very lean sta and signicantly slashed overhead costs in the naonal center in keeping with streamlining measures to ensure that it will get by within its limited resources. Thus, the league was able to save cost in 2020 and had enough funds to help the members in their respecve Covid-19 migaon projects.Awarded Honorary Vice Governor of the Year56
Awarded Honorary Vice Governor of the Year57 The league also had online capacity development programs with internaonal universies to focus on very important themac issues like, but not limited to, Food and Water Security, Disaster Resilience with special focus on pandemic response, and the Role of Technology and Data Science in governance. There was also a collaboraon with the Netherlands Embassy to push for programs on Sustainable Transport, and Water and Solid Waste Management. A virtual conference, together with the assistance of the Dutch Embassy and the PPP Center was held. They provided the experts and links to their networks to help the Vice Governors and their respecve local government units to successfully pursue programs in these areas. As of today, Vice Governor Agapay has completed the following foreign studies: Federalism at the Fribourg University in Switzerland, and Execuve Programs at the IHS Erasmus University in Netherlands and at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in Singapore. At the start of her third term, Vice Governor Agapay already accomplished a few signicant legislaons, one of which is the passage of a resoluon requesng the Professional Regulaon Commission (PRC) to have a satellite oce in Santa Cruz, Laguna, of which is now in the process of being operaonalized this November 2022. Another is the legislaon requesng His Excellency Ferdinand Marcos Jr., to increase the validity of PRC licenses from 3 years to 5 years. Similar legislaons are now being passed by the Vice Governors, in consultaon with the associaon of professionals in their respecve provinces. Apart from her ocial tasks as Vice Governor, Ay Agapay launched the quad-media “VG Updates” to help Lagunenses, especially the millenials, in keeping them busy by providing an avenue to showcase their talents, at the same me in helping the listeners and viewers be updated on legit informaon related to the pandemic and current events. As such, the following online contests were launched: “Pose-pandemic” a photo compeon of what families do during the pandemic; “Tugma sa Digma” a spoken word poetry contest; “Quarhythm” Dance Cover; and the VG Updates’ Ocial Music Video Tiktok Challenge. A documentary and several special episodes are regularly posted to keep Lagunenses abreast on current events. The radio program “VG Updates @ 87.9 FM” is currently aired every second and fourth Saturdays of the month, and is simultaneously viewed via FB Live at Binan 87.9 FM and at Vice Governor Karen Agapay’s ocial FB Page. The league also had online capacity development programs with internaonal universies to focus on very important themac issues like, but not limited to, Food and Water Security, Disaster Resilience with special focus on pandemic response, and the Role of Technology and Data Science in governance. There was also a collaboraon with the Netherlands Embassy to push for programs on Sustainable Transport, and Water and Solid Waste Management. A virtual conference, together with the assistance of the Dutch Embassy and the PPP Center was held. They provided the experts and links to their networks to help the Vice Governors and their respecve local government units to successfully pursue programs in these areas. As of today, Vice Governor Agapay has completed the following foreign studies: Federalism at the Fribourg University in Switzerland, and Execuve Programs at the IHS Erasmus University in Netherlands and at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in Singapore. Simultaneous with her responsibilies as Naonal President of the LVGP, Vice Governor Agapay, now on her third term, having won again by landslide votes in the 2022 Elecons, steered the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Laguna in helping Governor Ramil Hernandez to face the challenges brought about by the pandemic which started on March 2020. By craing and approving the needed legislaons and appropriaons, they were able to survive the onslaught during the crucial months of community quarannes during her second term. From resoluons and ordinances on an-discriminaons against our health workers, to provisions for food and “ayuda” to fellow Lagunenses, the 10th Sangguniang Panlalawigan will be recorded in history of Laguna as one of the most producve legislave councils that has ever been, most especially by the approval and appropriaon of funds for the now Laguna Molecular RT PCR Laboratory, one of the rst provincial-funded laboratory in the country that has been helping thousands of Lagunenses already by providing RT PCR Tests at a lower cost. This praccing lady lawyer was once the rst Sangguniang Kabataan Federaon President of San Pablo City, Laguna in 1993 to 1996. As City Councilor in 2004 to 2007, she writes arcles for local newspapers and co-hosts several local cable TV programs, focusing primarily on women’s rights, environment and local tourism. Her projects PABLO SERBISYO, KA-AGAPAY MO! (free legal assistance), BEAUTY CARAVAN (free cosmetology training), and LIBRENG GUPIT PARA SA BATANG NEAT (free haircut for school children), became favorite projects among her constuents, and has been helping thousands of Lagunenses, up to present.AS VICE GOVERNOR OF LAGUNAHER PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENTS
Awarded Honorary Vice Governor of the Year58 Recently, her VG Bayanihan Challenge “Palit-Poso” Project, is also fast becoming popular among the 681 barangays in Laguna. In 2007, she became the rst Senior Board Member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, who came from the Third District of Laguna. Garnering almost 100,000 votes and 40% percentage rank, thus besng Board Members from other districts in Laguna. Several mes, she assumed oce as OIC Vice Governor of Laguna. In 2013, she again topped the ranking with 46% and thus proclaimed as Senior Board Member with 126,922 votes. A year aer, she took her oath and assumed oce as Vice Governor of Laguna on May 28, 2014 by succession. She was duly elected as Vice Governor in the 2016 and 2019 Elecons with 482,481 votes and 931,401 votes, respecvely. A rst in the polical history of Laguna wherein she had a margin of 130,000 votes (2016) and 800,000 votes (2019) against her opponents. She won in the recent 2022 Elecons, against the son of a former Governor of Laguna, by landslide votes of 856,616. Apart from public service, she became the Legal Consultant of the Municipality of Cavin, Laguna (home of Lake Caliraya and Pueblo) in 2010, likewise, the Consultant for Polical Informaon Aairs at the Provincial Government of Laguna, and the Consultant of the Senate Oversight Commiee on Intelligence Funds, Programs and Acvies, under the Oces of Senator Vicente “Tito” Soo III and Senator Panlo “Ping” Lacson, in Manila. In 2011, she was elected Vice President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Laguna Chapter, and was simultaneously the Chairman of the Legal Aid Program in Laguna.Several mes she served as Vice President for Fund Development of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) San Pablo City Council Board, and as Vice President for Administraon of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) San Pablo City Council Board. In May 2012, she was elected as the youngest of the 15 members-at-large in the Philippines, of the Central Board of the GSP (for 2012-2015), in Manila. Last July 2021, she was elected as Vice President for Field (for 2021-2024) of the GSP Laguna Council Board, having ocially transferred and duly elected during its Council Convenon last March 26, 2021. Her fondness for being a part-me college instructor of Business Law at the Laguna College in San Pablo City, is likewise not surprising, considering that she was once an acve student herself. She graduated Valedictorian at St. Joseph Elementary School in 1987 and a mul-awarded High School Valedictorian at the Laguna College in 1991. A rare occasion in school, where she, as a student, was twice awarded as Highschool Student of the Year (1989-1990, 1990-1991). She belongs to the list of College Scholars at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City, while pursuing AB Polical Science, and was also included in the Dean’s List while taking up Bachelor of Laws at San Sebasan College-Recoletos in Manila. She passed the Bar Examinaons in 2005, and became a member of the Federacion Internacionale de Abogadas - Philippines Chapter (FIDA). She is the daughter of the late (former Laguna 3rd district Board Member) NELSON COROZA AGAPAY of Liliw and Nagcarlan, and (former Auditor at the Commission on Audit) VICENTA ANDAL CARTABIO of San Pablo City. Her brother DR. NELSON C. AGAPAY JR. is a Diplomate and Fellow of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians, and is currently aliated with the University Health Service at UPLB, The Medical City at SM Sucat Paranaque City, and The Medical City South Tower at SM South Mall Las Pinas City. As a public servant, she was elected as Naonal Treasurer of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines (LVGP) in 2016; Execuve Vice President of the Lady Local Legislators’ League of the Philippines (Four L) in 2017, and the Naonal Treasurer in 2017 and Naonal Vice Chairman in 2019 and 2022, of the Union of Local Authories of the Philippines (ULAP), with Governor Dax Cua of Quirino Province as Naonal President. As Vice Governor, Ay. Agapay received the awards “LCCAP Champion” by the Oce of the President of the Philippines’ Climate Change Commission; 2016 and 2017 “Outstanding Local Legislator” by Superbrands, Inc, Manila; “Climate Change Adaptaon Champion” by the Green Governance of the Philippines, Quezon City; and the Golden Globe Annual Awards for “Outstanding Filipino Achiever in Public Service” 2017, Manila. She was also awarded as “Honorary Vice Governor” by the Naon Builders and MosLiv Awards for 2021 and 2022, at Okada Manila.
NATION BUILDERSHe took up the course Respiratory Therapist in Los Angeles Valley College in California, envisioning himself to be working in the medical world. However, desny called, and as one who came from a family of public servants, he found it hard to resist the calling. Cebu Provincial Board Member Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano is proof that we can only draw out plans for our lives, but it is God who will have the nal say. He completed his elementary and high school at the University of San Carlos in Cebu before becoming a Licensed Respiratory Therapist, and had looked forward to a quiet life in the private sector as a mul-awarded managing director of Jollibee Robinsons Cybergate, Jollibee Carcar, and Jollibee Bogo. But he found himself taking the path of public service just like his late father and namesake, former Mandaue City Mayor and Board Member Thadeo “Teddy” Ouano, and late grandfather, Mandaue’s Old Man, former Mayor Alfredo “Pedong” Ouano. Board Member Jonkie stood up to connue the place of his father in 2016, who was running for a third term when he passed. Though the patriarchs of the Ouanos of Mandaue are no longer with him, Board Member Jonkie is not bere of any role model for conscienous and dedicated public service work. He had watched as his father commied his whole life to serve, and now he has his elder sister, Mandaue City Lone District Congresswoman Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon, as guide and mentor on conscienous and dedicated work as public servant. AWARDED HONORARYBOARD MEMBEROF THE YEARHON. THADEO JOVITO “JONKIE” M. OUANOBOARD MEMBER, PROVINCE OF CEBU59
JONKIEOUANOAwarded Honorary Board Member of the Year60
Today, Board Member Jonkie is the Assistant Majority Floor Leader of the 16th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the Province of Cebu. He is chairman of the Commiee on Public Safety, Peace and Order and Dangerous Drugs Abuse Prevenon and chairman of the Commiee on Higher and Technical Educaon. He is also vice chairman of the Commiee on Youth and Sports Development. He had authored 1,163 resoluons, 3,176 commiee reports, and 20 ordinances, mostly meant to help ensure a sustainable development for the country’s premier province. Among his landmark ordinances that were approved by the Provincial Board include:• An ordinance for LOW CARBON DEVELOPMENT in Cebu Province• An ordinance PROVIDING FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE COASTAL ECOSYSTEM through the implementaon of guidelines for SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT - FRIENDLY ECO-TOURISM ACTIVITIES WITHIN CORAL REEF AREAS• An ordinance amending the PROVINCIAL FISHERIES AND AQUATIC RESOURCES ORDINANCE• Ordinance creang the COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFE, PEACE AND ORDER, AND DANGEROUS DRUGS ABUSE PREVENTION• An ordinance INCREASING THE ALLOCATION OF THE SCHOLARS/GRANTEES per district in Cebu Province for terary studentsAwarded Honorary Board Member of the Year61 And as Board Member Jonkie connues to deliver his daily tasks of touching people’s lives with speed and eciency, he becomes an embodiment of the famous quote that says: “We rise by lifting others.”
Awarded Honorary Board Member of the Year62 With his heart for the senior cizens, Board Member Jonkie also proposed pending legislaon to grant addional benets to Cebuanos who turn 90 years old, and 100 years old. He also co-authored the ordinance increasing the incenves of barangay tanods in Cebu Province. Board Member Jonkie is acve in the implementaon of provincial programs, such as the Sugbo Negosyo program which assists in the promoon of small, micro and medium entrepreneurs from his district, beneng 990 beneciaries within his district. His oce is also aggressively implemenng the Sugbo Kahanas program, which gives skills training and tool kits for beneciaries, with 478 idened scholars under his oce. This is on top of the 300 scholars that he idened to benet from the Cebu Provincial Government’s Grants Intended for Terary Students or CPGIFTS.
Awarded Honorary Board Member of the Year63 Apart from his zealous industry for his work at the Provincial Government’s legislave body, Board Member Jonkie is also steadfast in his commitment to contribute hugely in the development of the Cebu 6th district that he represents: the Municipalies of Consolacion and Cordova, and the City of Mandaue. Thus, he helps liaise the barangay governments in these territories so he would be able to channel provincial funds for their various needs, including the concreng of barangay roads, rehabilitaon of drainage systems, development of water systems, installaon of solar street lights, purchase of industrial fans for barangay public venues, as well as the repair and renovaon of day care centers and barangay mul-purpose halls. Board Member Jonkie also puts emphasis on sports development for the young by distribung sports equipment for schools and barangays, as well as trophies and medals. He distributes tents, monobloc chairs, tanod kits, and other fundamental needs of those who are in the frontlines.
Health and social services, considered the heart of public service, also top Board Member Jonkie’s priories. He distributes medicines and nebulizers for barangay health centers, wheelchairs for those who need them, as well as assists in his constuents’ hospital bills, laboratory procedures, hemodialysis, and aid those who grieve aer losing family members. He has been acvely pushing for the conduct of medical and dental missions, and is visibly involved in disaster relief operaons, when needed. Born on November 16, 1974, Board Member Jonkie is married to Milanie Jo M. Kilstvedt with whom he has four children: Bianca Kirsten, Amanda Deon, Thadeo Jose Antonio, and Thadeo Emil Anthony. He is also a devoted son as well to his mother, Linda Z. Mabanag, and has enduring friendship with his brother, Consolacion Councilor Alfred Francis M. Ouano. He holds the rank of Major of the 1901st Ready Reserve Infantry Brigade. As they say, me ies, and Board Member Jonkie is already on his seventh year as an elected public ocial. Yet, his enthusiasm and movaon to serve have grown even stronger, and with what he has accomplished thus far, he can certainly hold a candle to others in the polical eld – even shining brightly as a gentleman with values and virtues serving as example to the younger generaon.Awarded Honorary Board Member of the Year64JONKIE OUANO
NATION BUILDERSJose Fulgencio A. del Rosario or Pepe as he is fondly called is the youngest of ve children of one of Capiz’s most loved public servants, the Hon. Antonio A. del Rosario, who rst served in his barangay, then his city, then his province aer he served as his people’s representave in the House of Representaves. Pepe follows in his father’s footsteps known as a speedy provider of his people’s needs, the “Aksyon Agad” public servant of the people of Capiz is behind Pepe’s brand of service as expressed in his tag line “Kay Pepe, Pwede” which is an expression of his strong polical will. Pepe was born on the 15th of August, 1986 and is only 37 years old, one of the youngest Board Members that the Province of Capiz ever had. He nished his Master in Public Management in 2015 from the Ateneo School of Government in Quezon City and his bachelor’s degree AB Consular and Diplomac Aairs in 2010 from the De La Salle of Saint Benilde in Manila. His secondary educaon was completed at the West Bridge School for Boys in Iloilo City while he graduated his elementary educaon from the Saint Mary’s Academy of Capiz in Roxas City. As a student, Pepe was acvely involved in sports, an adept writer, and an eloquent orator. These acvies, indeed, were all preparatory and contributory to the diverse leadership roles that he has and, currently, as a member of a legislave body.AWARDED HONORARYBOARD MEMBEROF THE YEARHON. JOSE FULGENCIO “PEPE” A. DEL ROSARIOBOARD MEMBER, PROVINCE OF CAPIZ65
Awarded Honorary Board Member of the Year66 Coming from a family that is into both business and polics, Pepe’s involvement in both started early on. Exposure to polics started with the Sangguniang Kabataan when he was elected in 2002, when he was just 16 years of age, and became the SK President in the City of Roxas, which made he become an Ex-Ocio Member of the City Council. This gave him the opportunity to serve not only his fellow youth but the people of Roxas City in various capacies.
Awarded Honorary Board Member of the Year67 He was Board of Director of the Solid Waste Management Board and of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (Capiz Council) and a member of the City Council for the Protecon of Children. Such posion catapulted him as a naonal youth leader when he became Naonal Auditor of the Kabataang Liberal ng Pilipinas (KALIPI) in 2004 and Vice President for Student Aairs of the Marangal na Kabataang Liberal ng Pilipinas (MARKANG LIBERAL) in 2009 up to 2010. A year aer, he became part of the Department of Tourism, inially as Senior Legislave Ocer in 2011 and for two years as Project Ocer of the Tourism Promoons Board of the Philippines starng 2012 unl 2014. He then transferred to the Philippine House of Representaves as Consultant while his father was serving his last term as Congressman of the First District of Capiz. When his father became Governor of the Province of Capiz, Pepe served as one of his Consultants unl 2019, just a year before the pandemic hit the country. Three years later, he decided to return to polics to connue a legacy, he ran as Member of the Provincial Board represenng the First District of Capiz and won with the highest garnered votes which was an armaon of his family’s integrity as public servants. Upon assumpon into oce, he chaired the Board’s Commiee on Tourism, championing the Provincial Government’s tourism priories. As Member of the Provincial Board, Pepe does not conne himself with the limitaons of the posion’s funcons and budget. He ensures that he is true to his tag line “Kay Pepe, Pwede” which is a manifestaon of his resourcefulness and responsiveness to his people’s needs despite amidst and despite his posion’s limitaons. In a lile more than a year in oce, he has proven that he truly understands his people’s predicament during crical mes. His eorts also augment the local government’s resources which he knows will never be sucient to respond to the people’s needs. Pepe is instrumental in the rehabilitaon of roads in the dierent barangays of his district and has provided 42 barangays collapsible tents which serve as shed during their acvies and residents can borrow for occasions such as wakes. At a me when prices in fuel is so much a burden to both drivers and operators, almost 3,000 of them became beneciaries of a fuel subsidy of P2,000.00 each and about 2,000 of them were beneciaries of a Free Change Oil Program. He is also instrumental in the implementaon of DOLE programs such as TUPAD and Kabuhayan which has given emergency employment and livelihood opportunies to hundreds of his kasimanwas (provincemates). Believing in his father’s legacy of bringing the government closer to the people especially at a me they need it the most, he has given almost 1.4 million pesos in burial assistance that has beneed almost 600 and almost 2 million pesos in hospitalizaon/medical assistance to almost 700 of his constuents. And for the youth, the sector that he served for so long, he has sourced out about 12 million pesos of educaonal assistance that provided 2,000 pesos each to almost 6,000 college students. Indeed, “Kay Pepe, Pwede.”
However, his is not purely public service. He was Markeng Manager of the Espacio Verde Resort which his family owns and is one of the prime resorts in the Province of Capiz. He was also a Member of the Board of MP Star Corporaon, a hotel leisure and recreaon facility. Since 2022 he is President of the Imperial Tiger Corp. an Construcon Supplies Services. Aware that public service will not enrely provide for his family, Pepe understands that he has to build his private life through business ventures that will ensure his family’s lifelong livelihood and economy. For now, he has to balance his polical life, founded on the ardent desire to serve his people, and his business, which he knows will provide for his family’s lifelong needs. He knows, that for now, he has to keep both as they are most important and a great source of self-realizaon and fulllment to him as the Jose Fulgencio “Pepe” A. del Rosario, raised in a home of a humble public servant and a highly entrepreneurial family. For many, this may be impossible but “Kay Pepe, Pwede!”Awarded Honorary Board Member of the Year68
The Biblical account of David and Goliath is one of the most popular stories from the Scripture. It is a lesson of courage, faith, and overcoming what seems to be impossible. A not so far story of the humble millenial Mayor of Pasig, Mayor Victor Ma. Regis Nubla Sotto. Raising the political scene as the youngest mayor in Metro Manila at the age of 30, hailing from being the youngest city councilor of the city at the age of 27. Mayor ‘Vico’ as admiringly known, has defeated the 27 years of the Eusebio’s mayoralty seat, a miracle not far from David defeating Goliath. His name maybe as popular as both his parents are celebrities. His father an actor, comedian and host Vic Sotto and actress Coney Reyes, both celebrities strongly associated with the noontime variety show Eat Bulaga. As the public expected his regular stint in showbiz, he preferred to maintain a more low profile with intense interest in the government service as early as 10 years old.THE MODERN DAVID OF PASIG69
Mayor Vico, graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. In 2016, he became a member of Sangguninang Panlungsod (City Council). He later pursued a Master of Arts in Public Management at the Ateneo School of Government and graduated in 2018. In the same year, he received the prestigous YSEALI Professional Fellowship Award and did his professional residency at the Iowa Public Information Board as part of the fellowship. As an independent Councilor, Mayor Vico faced stiff opposition from various initiatives, making it difficult to introduce various legislation. He focused his energy and attention on “The Pasig Transparency Mechanism Ordinance,” that seeks the disclosure of public records, including the financial documents and contracts, upon request by ordinary citizen. In its passage, it has become the first-ever localized version of the freedom of information law in Metro Manila. When Mayor Vico, ran for Mayor in 2019, he sworn in as a member of Aksyon Demokratiko, a national political party founded by former Senator Raul Roco in 1997. He has always refused the limelight even while campaigning and the clear access to celebrity power, he made sure to campaign in an issue-based strategy, focusing his platforms on his core issues called, “Big V” (Big Five) Agenda. His “Big V” Agendas are back to basic: healthcare, education, housing, social services, and the drive against corruption, he has beheld a keen eye on his goals.In this global health pandemic, the Pasig City under the Leadership of Mayor Vico, has strategize a gameplan of PDITR (Prevent, Detect, Isolate, Treat and Recover). Validating the efficiency of the gameplan, it has received the - COVID Response Service Award given by the Department of Health, as one of the local government units (LGU’s) that has made a mark on the management of the pandemic. Pasig has also piloted the 1st LGU Operated Quarantine Facility accredited by the Department of Health, with a total of 8 School Building at the Rizal High School and has admitted a total of 5,012 patients since May 2020 and 3,152 patients accomodated at the Daisy Quarantine Facility. Moreover 2,642 patients were also treated at the Pasig City Children’s Hospital that was temporarily converted as Pasig City Covid Referral Center. In September 2020, the Department of Health has certify the Pasig City Molecular Laboratory, it has help expedite the release of the needed results, in effect, as of June 30, 2021 a total of 103,002 RT-PCR Test was conducted and 32,936 ECLIA Test was processed and results were immediately released few days after. To assure the proper handling of remains, the City has also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Evergreen Chapel and Crematory, and immediately opened its government owned Pasig City Crematorium, with a current total of 2,560 remains cremated as of June 30, 2021. In the light of the pandemic, the city has become the 1st Local Government Unit that has created a Microplan For Vaccination Program with the assistance of the World Health Organization and the Department of Health.HEALTH: “KALUSUGANGPANGKALAHATAN”Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year70
Mayor Vico has always have high regards in education and unquestionably supports the youth, in lieu with these, the City government launched the Malusog na Batang Pasigueño, a school based feeding program that aims to augment the required nutrition intake of chosen students. There were 147, 284 number of beneficiaries/students identified, and 294, 469 food packs were distributed in two (2) batches. To ameliorate the distance learning program of the Department of Education, Mayor Vico spearhead the distribution of 77,000 tablets for elementary students, 63,000 tablets for junior high school and 5,220 laptops for senior high school students. Mayor Vico in his recent State of the City Address last July 2, 2021 has reported the enormous increase of the beneficiaries of the Pasig City Scholarship Program from 14,949 scholars of School Year 2019-2020 to 17,500 scholars for 2020-2021 with a remarkable 17% increase. With great pride, the local chief executive has announced that the current 3,054 enrolees of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig, a locally funded university, shall soon be provided a Php 500.00 monthly allowance for all students. In the midst of the raging challenges that we are currently living with, the dynamic Mayor Vico has continously provides social services to his constituents. 90% of Pasigueños has received it’s Pamaskong Handog regardless of their social status and residential qualification. Supplemental SAP, SWAC, Damayan, Financial Assistance and Food Packs are continously being served. As of June 24, 2021- 59,993 Pasigueño Senior Citizens were validated with a total of 56,521 cash cards printed by Landbank of the Philippines and 3,472 availed of over the counter services for their benefits.In his State of the City Address, Mayor Vico also announced a 20 % saving from various procurement activities for 2020 or equals to Php. 2,303,456,317.99 consequential to his vow of serving the government corruption-free. True to it, he was named as one of the 12 recepients of the International Anticorruption Champions Award launched by the United States Secretary of State Anthony blinken, an award that acknowledges individuals who have “demonstrated leadership, courage, and impact in preventing, exposing, and combating corruption.”The US State Department described Sotto as a “standard-bearer for a new generation of Philippine politicians who prioritized anti-corruption and transparency initiatives in their election campaigns and in office.” He has sought to “solidify his reputation as a fresh voice with a new, more transparent approach in governance,” the department added. In effect a Senate Resolution No. 657, was adopted in consideration with Senate Resolution No. 660, citing that, Mayor Vico has been steadfast in his commitment to rid corruption by eliminating kickbacks in the awarding of city contracts. He established a 24/7 public information and complaints hotline for the purpose.He has also involved civil society organizations in the city’s budgeting and policymaking. He has mandated at least a 10 percent reduction in the value of city government contracts, a measure intended to reduce bribery in the contract awarding process.EDUCATION: “EDUKASYON PARA SA PASIGUEÑO” SOCIAL SERVICES: “ABOT KAMAY NASERBISYONG PANLIPUNAN”PERSONNEL SERVICES: “TAPAT AT MAHUSAY NA LINGKOD BAYAN.”HOUSING: “PABAHAY PARA SA MAPANALAHOK AT MAUNLAD NA PAMAYANAN”Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year71
INTERNAL HOUSEKEEPING INITIATIVESFISCAL POLICIESPASIG’S BOSS (BUSINESS ONE STOP SHOP)To further move toward a transparent and participative governance, Mayor Vico has initiated an Internal Housekeeping Initiatives.1. Plans for the mandatory and statutory obligations reflect the proposed programs and projects of the different units, budgetary requirements are properly attributed to avoid duplication and ensure effective implementation.2. Budgetary requirements for supplies, utilities, repair and maintenance are consolidated to the general services office for proper procurement and inventory.3. Training and seminars are consolidated to the Human Resource Department for enhanced monitoring of the capacity development of all the personnel.4. Job order, volunteers and other emergency personnel are also under the department to complement the needs of every unit and ensure productivity of each staff.5. The recent bulletin of prices from the Bids and Awards Committee served as the basis of unit cost of all items, decreasing the estimated budget down and accommodating most of the proposed PPA’s of the budgetary units despite the lowered target income.6. Continuing appropriation and projected savings for fiscal year 2020 are incorporated in the beginning to end balance the proposed expenditure.For 2021- 2022, Mayor Vico has already set incomplex and straight forward guidelines of running his governance which as follows: 1. Spending within our means; 2. Investing in the right priorities; 3. Delivering measurable results; 4. Empowering citizens through greater fiscal transparency, accountability, and participation.Despite facing a big challenges of the lockdown and uncertainties, he has continued to make a bold decision in support of Pasigueño entrepreneur. On January 3, 2021 he leads the ceremonial opening of the Pasig City business one-stop shop (BOSS) at the Ayala Malls The 30th along Meralco Avenue, Barangay Ugong. The BOSS program targets to simplify procedures for the issuance of local business licenses, clearances, permits, certifications and authorizations. To quote from his statement “Isa pa sa tinitingnan natin sa one-stop shop (One thing that we are eyeing) is to clear up the local government, in line of our end-goal of making things very easy for the businesses here in Pasig.”“The local government is committed to really clearing that up, not only in terms of the policies, but in terms of the actual process, but I think it really has to be in terms of reducing or eventually eliminating corruption in our local government,” he added.Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year72
Mayor Vico reiterated that while some businesses are not having a hard time complying with business requirements, they are having difficulty understanding the long procedure that they need to go through in applying for business permits, and it would sometimes, takes three weeks to several months to process business applications, he said.“Our dream here for Pasig -- and maybe our dream as Filipinos -- is that one day would come, that a government official would not just be hesitant but ashamed to ask for a bribe but also to receive a bribe,” Mayor Vico emphasized. Mayor Vico might be considered a neophyte in the political arena but he has proven the vigor energy and rekindled spirit of the youth in service. His life on the other sphere maybe find as a waste of youth, but in the lives of those who are committed, nothing happens by accident and a clear testimony of it is enlived by the modern David of Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto. His humility as always enshrined has never fogotten to give credit to each and every constituents, with his continous victory of his cause he can remain to be silently magnanimous. In the end, Mayor Vico’s ways and system of governance in Pasig City best exemplify Dr. Jose Rizal’ reference to “The Youth is the hope of our future,” indeed, he is a new breed of leader that our country needs. And this local chief executive continues to remind us in his own word that may we “serve beyond reproach.”Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year73
Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year74
NATION BUILDERSA disnguished businessman, a public-servant by mind and heart , and a God-fearing leader in words and deeds. Honorable Mayor Hilario G. Pagauitan was born in November 3, 1956 at Calamagui North, Santa Maria, Isabela. Raised in a humble family with humble beginnings, his father Apolonio D. Pagauitan and his mother Antonia M. Gabriel taught him one very important lesson in life - there is no higher calling in terms of a profession than public service, which oers the opportunity to change people’s lives and make the world a beer place. Growing in a poverty-stricken community made him realize that success is not like a walk in the park . Don’t wait for opportunity to come, you have to create it because success is not an overnight achievement, it is something that you have to earn through years of hard work and dedicaon. Seeing the value of educaon in man’s life, he nished his secondary educaon at Cagayan Valley Instute of Technology and graduated as class salutatorian in 1973. He nished his terary educaon at Adamson University in 1979 where he took up Bachelor of Science in Geology . At present he is married to Soa G. Paguitan and was blessed with 3 daughters and 2 sons. His two sons are public servants serving the municipality of Santa Maria while his two daughters are currently Board of Directors of their mining companies. With his booming career in the eld of business, his involvement with civic and religious service made him realize his true purpose in life. As a full-blooded Ybanag, he witnessed the needs of his hometown. Nocing the call for an honest public service, he took one step backward from his thriving career to serve the people of Santa Maria. AWARDED HONORARYLOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVEOF THE YEARHON. HILARIO G. PAGAUITANMAYOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF SANTA MARIA, ISABELA75
The year 2012 was his rst aempt where he won as the barangay captain of Calamagui North, Santa Maria, Isabela. In the succeeding years he shared the same principles and goals when he was elected as the President of Liga ng mga Barangay aecng posive changes to the lives of many beyond the sphere of his inuence. The year 2016 was the major turning point of his life where he decided to run for the mayoral post and won a big marginal votes and so the brand of honest governance for progress connued. He knew very well that in order to do this, he needed to unite rst the people of Santa Maria through a shared vision. For him, leadership is the capacity of a person to movate, inspire, and direct the transformaon of other people, groups, organizaons, or society for a greater good. He dedicated his me benchmarking to several connecons within the country and abroad and came up on his own brand of leadership that speaks his thirst for poverty alleviaon and honest governance.Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year76
Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year77 When he assumed his post in 2016, he iniated policies and measures geared towards economic stability. He established the foundaon for a strong economy that survived the nancial crisis of Santa Maria in the previous years. He believed that a way to ght poverty is to create jobs, this paved the way in the craing of dierent LGU Programs such as Cash for Work, addional job creaons, eecve implementaon of program of the naonal government which is the Tulong Panghanapbuhay Sa Ang Disadvantaged / Displaced Workers (TUPAD) and the like.
NUTRITION AND HEALTH Another highlight of his administraon is the strengthening of the agricultural sector. His major step to achieve this was to make assistance and help accessible to farmers to improve their producvity and income as well. He made sure that there is proper funding for farmers, increased access to nancial assistance likewise calamity assistance for the rehabilitaon of their livelihood. Aside from poery, the municipality was able to put in mainstream media the local products of the municipality such as muscovado, white corn coee, ceramic water lter and sugarcane vinegar thereby establishing the local identy of the municipality naonwide.Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year78
Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year79 For him, to sustain economic development means there’s a need to develop public infrastructures. It was during his administraon that local access roads were constructed such as farm to market roads and concreng of barangay roads. Drainage canals, construcon of gymnasium and covered courts in every barangay and schools, evacuaon centers, municipal building, construcons of river and ood controls, and addional healthcare infrastructures such as quaranne facilies are now in place.
Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year80 On the provision of social services, he assured that the Local Government Unit and all other sectors deliver responsive, ecient and cost-eecve social services like provision of beer healthcare support, delivery of safe, quality and liberang educaon, safe and violence-free communies and inclusive gender empowerment. Because of his exemplary performance and accomplishments, the local government of Santa Maria was able to build its name both in the naonal and internaonal arena. Several awards garnered in the past years were the following: Gawad Parangal and Most Outstanding Filipino in the Field of Public Service (Gawad Amerika Awards Night) in 2017, in the year 2022 he was a Civil Service Commission Regional Awardee of Dangal ng Bayan Award due to the outstanding transformaon of the municipality of Santa Maria. In 2019, the municipality also received its Seal of Drug-Cleared Municipality cited by PDEA RO II. Currently, through the support of Santa Marian people, stakeholders both naonal, regional and local levels and other NGOs, Santa Maria is now on its journey in achieving the Seal of Good Local Governance. Honorable Mayor Hilario G. Pagauitan believed that there’s a long road towards sustainable economic growth of a community and it will always depends on having honest leadership, a trustworthy and eecve government structure, and a united people of Santa Maria. Though the story of his administraon started with daunng stascs, the records of accomplishments are solid. Today, Santa Maria is being seen in a dierent light for it had showcased a signicant mark of resiliency over economic crisis and managed to preserved gains thereby improving its economic fundamentals.
NATION BUILDERSPag-asa Indi Paasa”, is the guiding principle of Mayor Dante Rizal A. Eslabon in his leadership that is now swily transforming the poverty-stricken municipality of Sigma into a progressive and most livable municipality in the Philippines. Mayor Eslabon has brought hope to Sigmahanons giving them the chance and opportunity to upli their lives. On July 1, 2022, the people of Sigma, the Heart of Capiz, entrusted to Mayor Dante Rizal A. Eslabon his seat. His administraon steers toward the direcon I ESLABON. I – infrastructure, E- educaon and Environment, S - Sports and Social Services, L- Livelihood Programs, A- Agriculture and Arts, B- Business and Trading, O- Opportunies, and N- Nutrion and Health. Infrastructure development was among his top concerns; thus, he led the LGU Sigma to erect the, I LOVE SIGMA landmark to improve land esthec value, land identy, and tagging. To pay homage to the contribuons of Rizal to Naonal Freedom and to promote a naonal sense of patriosm, he also pursued the construcon of the New Dr. Jose Rizal Monument. He has also improved the façade of the Municipal Hall giving a face of renewed hope to Sigmahanons. In addion, he has also worked on the construcon of a two-story Mulpurpose Building where he now holds oce, repainted the civic center and Basketball court, improved the Sigma Community Heritage Center and wellness center, repaired the RHU and MENRO Oce, constructed the PNP holding room, Pedestrian sheds, and a footbridge at Sio Ibian, Mianay, Sigma.AWARDED HONORARYLOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVEOF THE YEARHON. DANTE RIZAL A. ESLABONMAYOR, GOVERNMENT OF SIGMA, CAPIZ“PAG-ASA INDI PAASA”81INFRASTRUCTURE
Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year82 He has also pursued the rehabilitaon of Barangay roads to provide ecient and convenient travel to our barangays. Furthermore, he has ongoing projects such as the renovaon and improvement of the Sigma Municipal Building and the construcon of Mulpurpose Buildings in ten barangays. Mayor Eslabon distributed school and oce supplies to schools in the district of Sigma to improve the quality of educaon and to support the educaonal sector. Students were also allowed to be part of the special educaon for employment of students, who were deployed to the dierent departments of the LGU. To discuss maers about educaonal development he proposed regular local school board meengs. Knowing the importance of environmental protecon and preservaon, Mayor Eslabon led the LGU to forge a Memorandum of Agreement with Passi Integrated Based Management Facility for the residual waste disposal in compliance with R.A. 9003. As part of the solid waste management iniaves, bole waste was converted into eco-bricks and eco-hollow blocks used for the reclamaon and beaucaon of public parks and open spaces. Two Hundred Twenty-four hectares were also protected through the deployment of two forest rangers in Brgy. Pinamalacan, Sigma, as a result, illegal logging and illegal kaingin were minimized in the mberland area. An inventory of twelve caves was also conducted in Brgy. Pinamalacan. He has also proposed the closure of one illegal quarry site in Sio Catamnan, Parian, Sigma, and apprehended nine trucks and two backhoes in violaon of the Revised Revenue Code of the Province of Capiz. As part of the renewable energy program, Mayor Eslabon plans to establish a modern facility that aims to capture carbon gas to be converted to energy. The program is called Carbon Capture Resource Recovery Waste to Energy or CCRRWE Technology.EDUCATION & ENVIRONMENT
Envisioning sports as a means to promote well-being and strengthening community oneness, Mayor Eslabon spearheaded the 1st Mayor’s Cup, the 1st Mayor Dante Rizal A. Eslabon Rescue Olympics, and the 1st Mayor Dante Rizal A. Eslabon 4x4 O Road Challenge bringing together the Barangays of the Municipality. He also expressed his support to Sigmahanon Palaro and WVRAA athletes by providing nancial aid. As part of his dream to improve social services, Mayor Eslabon led the creaon and acvaon of the Public Order and Safety Unit (POSU) that funcons to promote and maintain orderliness through strict implementaon of laws governing the community and as well as in maintaining peace and order. During the onslaught of Tropical Storm Paeng over 12,431 family food packs were distributed to 10,991 aected families in the Municipality of Sigma. Feeding sets for 919 preschool children’s beneciaries were released to their respecve Day Care Workers. He also gave birthday cakes to PWDs and Senior Cizens, and as of August 2023, 4,042 PWDs and Senior Cizens availed of surprise cakes as gis for their birthdays. As of August 2023, 251 indigent beneciaries availed of burial assistance all amounng to over ₱3 Million, and 583 eligible individuals and families availed of nancial assistance with a total of ₱2.8 Million. Mayor Eslabon also strengthened the response unit which was deployed during disaster response operaons and all other social and civic events. Sigma’s response team responded to 450 cases. To improve rescue operaons, he labored for the procurement of the following: two Izuzu rescue trucks, one Izuzu Travis, one Nisan Navarra, and six rescue boats. He also lobbied one Toyota Commuter from the PCSO. Due to the eecve eort of our mayor, the disaster and resiliency eorts of the municipality were recognized by the Philippine Coast Guard last September 4, 2023, where they presented a plaque of appreciaon to Mayor Eslabon in a ceremony hosted by the municipality. Addionally, as part of the social thrust, Mayor Eslabon is also looking into the construcon of a potenal high-rise residenal condominium in the municipality. SPORTS & SOCIAL SERVICESAwarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year83
Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year84LIVELIHOOD PROGRAMSAGRICULTURE AND ARTSNUTRITION AND HEALTHBUSINESS AND TRADINGOPPORTUNITIES In line with Mayor Eslabon’s livelihood programs, eight fresh graduates were also allowed to be deployed to Sigma LGU as part of the government Internship Program. Through the Tulong Pangkabuhayan para sa mga Displaced Workers (TUPAD), 884 beneciaries availed from Twenty-one barangays in the Municipality. Forty-two Trisikad Drivers from the Municipality of Sigma were also given new uniformed bicycles/sikad, extra interior, long sleeve, cap, towel, and insulated water boles all amounng to more than ₱1,250,000. Through the eorts of Mayor Eslabon, 3,882 farmers received 13,440 bags of seed amounng to ₱10,214,000.00, and a combined harvester was donated to Brgy. Balucuan Farmers Associaon from D.A. Phil-Mech., and nancial assistance to, 5,395 farmers amounng to over ₱8 million. To protect livestock that constutes a vital component of the agricultural economy and food suciency, he also strengthened the delivery of livestock services. In arts Development, Mayor Eslabon sent 13 MAPEH teachers from the Municipality to the Saot Capiz Capiznon Folk Dance Training at the Instute of Living Tradions. To encourage community parcipaon and creavity, he iniated the the Isa ka Bituon Isa ka Handom Parol Making Contest parcipated by all 21 barangays with a cash prize of ₱50,000.00. and sent parcipants to the Maragtas Cultural Show of the province where Sigma ranked 2nd place. In light of eecve health services, Mayor Eslabon worked for the provision of PPEs to all 21 barangays amounng to P15,530,700.00. The RHU of Sigma also conducted a dental mission and uoride applicaon catering to 760 beneciaries. Recently this April 26, a bloodleng acvity at Sigma Community Heritage Center was conducted, parcipated by 397 blood donors. 165 children were also immunized during the Measles Rubella OPV Supplemental Immunizaon last May 2, 2023. The Wellness Van, catered 167 paents last May 5, 2023. As part of the campaign for Covid vaccinaon, the Municipality of Sigma has a percentage of 96.39% vaccinated populaon with, 21.37% of the populaon receiving Booster Shots. An upcoming development is the improved Super Health Center with funding granted by the Kabayan Party List amounng to P10 million pesos for infrastructure and P2 million pesos for equipment. In a span of one year and two months in oce he, hired and promoted eleven employees to permanent posions. Aside from this he also iniated the provision of Birthday cakes for the employees to show appreciaon to the workforce behind the Municipal Government. To expand the network and enhance the thrust for good governance, Mayor Eslabon arranged for the LGU Sigma Department Heads to conduct a benchmarking of good government pracces and learning development session at the City Government of Quezon City and Tagaytay City. To further improve the delivery of public service in the Barangays his Administraon has procured Twenty-two units of Mulpurpose Rescue Vehicle for all Twenty-one Barangays and one for the Business permit and licensing Oce with the help of Sen. Sonny Angara. He also worked on the procurement of a Brand-new Grader, Excavator, Nissan Navarra Pro4x4 pick-up, and two Dump Trucks. The Mayor is also working on the establishment of a New Government Center, the implementaon of the Waste to Energy Project, the Development of O-Road Tracks, eleven Mul-Purpose Buildings and the Proposal for the Establishment of Addional Barangay. Mayor Dante Rizal A. Eslabon remained true to his promise to implement programs, projects, and acvies aligned with development strategies to bring Pag-asa to Sigmahanons. Thus, we dare say “Kay Eslabon may Pag-asa”. Mayor Eslabon directed the strong implementaon of the business tax campaign, as a result, the registered businesses increased from 364 in January – June to 762 in July – December which has increased 52.23% in six months. As of 1st quarter of 2022 business tax reached the target collecon for the calendar period. As a result, the reform-iniated local income collecon for the year 2022 totaled ₱16.8 Million, 17.2% higher compared to the year 2021. For the current year from January to July local income collecon is ₱11.4 Million, an increase of 8.8% in tax collecon compared with the same period in the previous year. He has always been consistent with his goals of providing more opportunies and support to local producers and Micro Small Medium Enterprises. Thus he revived the Sigma Tourist Informaon Center and One Stop Shop Pasalubung Center to increase patronage for Sigmahanon products and enhance the tourist experience. He also sent parcipants to the “Skills Training on Bamboo Cra Making” to capacitate Sigmahanons to produce bamboo cras as a source of livelihood opportunies.
NATION BUILDERSVisionary builds what dreamers imagined” – an Indonesian writer Tota Beta, once said. It all started with a dream. A dream not for herself, rather, a dream for the people she has sworn to serve, the Dumalagnons, Mayor Maria Concepcion Tan Castro, or simply Mayor Khuku, has been a household name for the people of Dumalag Capiz, a name she was able to establish in the last 19 years through genuine public service, and a name that actually rose from humble beginnings being a former Chief Polical Aairs Ocer and Legislave Aairs Ocer of former Deputy Speaker Fredenil H. Castro. Mayor Khuku built her polical career on a solid ground. She is a red warrior who nished her Bachelor of Science in Commerce Major in Economics at St. Scholasca’s College/ Internaonal Academy of Management and Economics in 2003. Born on September 29, 1982, Mayor Khuku is the daughter of incumbent Governor Fredenil H. Castro and Congresswoman Jane Tan Castro. A consistent honor student, she graduated her elementary educaon at South Merville School in 1995. Four Years later, she nished her secondary educaon at La Consolacion College. Backed by enough experience that also enabled her to gain the trust of her allies, she took the helm as the Mayor of Dumalag, Capiz in 2022 anchored with the key areas of local governance:AWARDED HONORARYLOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVEOF THE YEARHON. MARIA CONCEPCION “KHUKU” TAN CASTROMAYOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF DUMALAG, CAPIZLIVING THE LEGACY OF PUBLIC SERVICE AND TRUST FOR DUMALAGNONS 85
This leadership journey deepened my understanding of social responsibility in local governance. It boosted my personal and professional life. I have proven once and for all that in reducing social inequies, inter-sectoral collaboraon, dialogue of all sectors are needed through bridging leadership. Also provision of social programs, facilies, human resources and nances is required to guarantee equity plus polical commitment to address the pressing issues. I am convinced of my competencies as bridging leader to face social challenges and create social change for good governance. As the captain of the ship, Mayor Khuku knew that her vision for Dumalag will stand less of a chance of succeeding if not all parts of the organizaon are on board with her development thrusts. She believes in the “structure follows strategy” principle, which states that departments together with other elements must be designed to achieve the organizaon’s strategy. It is in this light that she established an accountable, ecient, and dynamic organizaonal structure and operang mechanism to meet the priority needs and services requirements of the Dumalagnons. With the emergence of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, a global health crisis, it has had a major impact on the Municipality’s health system also aecng its capacity to connue the delivery of other health services nevertheless, the Municipality of Dumalag connuously works towards beer health for the whole community drawing lessons from the previous health crisis. The Municipality has implemented various reforms to strengthen its health system and to achieve its goal of Health for All Dumalagnons. RE-ENGINEERED ORGANIZATIONON HER FIRST TERMTHE CZAR OF COVID-19 CONTAINMENT AND HIGHLIGHTS OF PANDEMIC RESPONSESAwarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year86
The Municipality sought to widen the decision-making space by encouraging the parcipaon of health partners and stakeholders as members of the Expanded Local Health Board. Monthly scheduling and holding of meengs of the Expanded Local Health Board has provided health partners and stakeholders with the opportunity to discuss and share their ideas, thoughts and concerns related to health in a collaborave environment. Regular meeng of the Expanded LBH also provided opportunies for feedbacking, monitoring and evaluaon of dierent health programs and resulted to development of valuable ideas, intervenons, and strategies. The Expanded LHB has passed several policies such as approval of the dierent municipal health plans as well as endorsement of policies for approval of the Sangguniang Bayan.FUNCTIONALITY OF THE EXPANDEDLOCAL HEALTH BOARDAwarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year87 The Municipality sought to widen the decision-making space by encouraging the parcipaon of health partners and stakeholders as members of the Expanded Local Health Board. Monthly scheduling and holding of meengs of the Expanded Local Health Board has provided health partners and stakeholders with the opportunity to discuss and share their ideas, thoughts and concerns related to health in a collaborave environment. Regular meeng of the Expanded LBH also provided opportunies for feedbacking, monitoring and evaluaon of dierent health programs and resulted to development of valuable ideas, intervenons, and strategies. The Expanded LHB has passed several policies such as approval of the dierent municipal health plans as well as endorsement of policies for approval of the Sangguniang Bayan. The Municipality of Dumalag has medium- and short-term plans, the Local Investment Plan for Health (LIPH) and Annual Operaonal Plans (AOPs) respecvely. The LIPH 2023-2025 is a medium-term investment planning for health undertaken by the Local Government Unit of Dumalag in partnership with the Department of Health, Provincial Health Oce, development partners and stakeholders to aain local and naonal health sector goals through a boom-up planning procedure that allows the 19 barangays in the Municipality of Dumalag as well as private-public partners to have their plans consolidated and incorporated in the Municipal health plans, the LIPH and AOP. The LIPH 2023-2025 also serves as a costed strategic health plan of the Municipality for the implementaon of the Universal Health Care (UHC) covering the needs of the 19 barangays in the Municipality.FUNCTIONALITY OF THE EXPANDED LOCAL HEALTH BOARDFORMULATION, TIMELY SUBMISSION ANDALLOCATION OF FUND FOR THE LOCAL INVESTMENT PLAN FOR HEALTH 2023-2025 AND ANNUAL OPERATIONAL PLAN 2024
Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year88 On the other hand, the Annual Operaonal Plan for Health 2024 provides the strategic and operaonal direcon and scope of work for the health sector for year 2024 harmonizing the Municipality’s eort to improve the health and well-being of Dumalagnons through idencaon of health sector priories, involvement of stakeholders at all levels, increasing access to quality essenal health services, enhancing performance of health workforce and strengthening response to emerging and re-emerging infecous diseases.MUNICIPAL HEALTH SYSTEM STRENGHTHENING PROGRAM is aimed at informing municipal leaders and stakeholders of their roles in health management and governance together with the members of expanded local health board. BARANGAY HEALTH LEADERSHIP MANAGEMENT TRAINING is aimed at strengthening leadership and governance that includes barangay leaders, Barangay Health Workers (BHW) and Sanggunian kabataan (SK) in partnership with the Center for Health Development and University of the Philippines Visayas Foundaon Inc.EXPANDED LOCAL HEALTH BOARD inclusion of health partners and stakeholders. Regular meengs provided opportunies for feedback, monitoring and evaluaon of health programs. ADOLESCENT HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM includes Peer Educators’ Training for secondary students for prevenng teen pregnancy, Healthy Young Ones in schools for sexual health, sexuality informaon.RABIES PREVENTION AND CONTROL PROGRAM: Establishment of Animal Bite Treatment Center, Post Exposure Prophylaxis service (PEP), intensied its campaign and advocacy in Rabies Prevenon Control in all barangays using Informaon Educaon Campaign. HEALTH FACILITY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM: Construcon of proposed New Mega RHU with the nancial support from DOH under Health Facility and Development Program. To give due recognion to barangays, health partners and stakeholders who acvely parcipated in the implementaon of health programs, the Municipality conducted Pasidungog 2022. Cercates and cash grants were awarded to top performing barangays, health partners and stakeholders during the conduct of Pasidungog. GAWAD KALASAG AWARDEE: The highest level of recognion for the DRRM has made the Municipality of Dumalag consistently won rst place since 2018. This was made feasible by the funconal DRRM Council and the MDRRM Oce’s acve parcipaon in incorporang the DRRM-CCAs into the Municipality’s local development iniaves. Municipality of Dumalag has also developed a conngency plan for its top two hazards, typhoon, and ashood. With this document, we have strategically prepared synchronized measures to respond to any event. MDRRMO Dumalag has used a systemac strategy for disaster response to eecvely manage disasters. From the resources needed, manpower, and the idencaon of gaps before, during, and aer the crisis strikes. The presence of other plans and manuals such as standard operang procedures, communicaon manuals, Local Climate Change Adaptaon Plan (LCCAP) with a dra Greenhouse Gas Emission mark the sincere take of MDRRMO-Dumalag towards resilient Dumalag. The Municipality of Dumalag has its own respecve Barangay Rescue Units (BRU) that has been established as the respecve barangays’ response arm in both man-made and natural disasters and are equipped with rescue vehicles and resources to be used as needed. The B.R.U. is acve and has undergone the necessary basic training to aid in response to their clear vision, which are for barangay resiliency. The LGU’s 19 barangays are making remarkable DRRM eorts through the funconing Barangay Disaster Risk Reducon Commiee. Furthermore, the LDRRM Ocer and our Local Government Operaons Ocer thoroughly reviewed their respecve BDRRM plans to ensure programs, projects and acvies are aligned with the DRRM. The MDRRMO Dumalag has been constant in its eorts toward disaster prevenon and migaon, laying down measures for disaster preparedness, and greater engagement with community in disaster response, as well as collaboraon with various stakeholders and partners for recovery and rehabilitaon. The Municipality of Dumalag, under the leadership of Mayor Khuku has achieved numerous noteworthy accomplishments, from crime reducon and highest number of cases led against PD 1602 to the operaonal accomplishments, including counter terrorism, combang organized crime, addressing public safety concerns, and engaging with communies to build trust and collaboraon. • “Plaque of Recognion”, for having been adjudged as best performing Municipal Police Staon with highest number of cases led against PD 1602 (Illegal Gambling)• “Cercate of Recognion”, as Best Performing Police Staon for the Week, garnered the highest percentage of 53.84% in the Operaonal Accomplishments from June 26- July 2, 2023, thereby contribung to the over-all performance of Capiz Police Provincial Oce.• The Dumalag Municipal Police Staon has recorded a total crime volume of 60 which compose of 8 index, 17 non- index, and 35 public safety indexes (vehicular accidents). The total crime cleared is 58 that gives 96.67% crime clearance eciency and the total crime solved is 54 that gives 90% of crime soluon eciency. • Recorded a total of 8 surrendered rearms with an expired licensed. It prevents illicit use of rearms, regulatory compliance, tracking and monitoring, transparency, accountability, legal compliance, and maintaining public condence as it contributes to the responsible management of rearms within the community which is essenal for maintaining peace and security.• The LGU was able to intercept illegal logging acvity in the area. Intercepng illegal logging acvies safeguards the environment by prevenng deforestaon, preserving ecosystems, and migang the impacts of climate change, it protects local communies and indigenous peoples whose livelihoods depend on forest resources, it upholds the rule of law, ensuring that individuals and enes engaging in illegal logging face legal consequences, it prevents the loss of government revenue associated with illegal logging, and it contributes to naonal security by curbing illicit acvies oen linked to illegal logging, such as corrupon, organized crime, and insurgency.CONDUCT OF PASIDUNGOG 2022PEACE AND ORDERLGU MANAGEMENT AND SERVICEDELIVERY SYSTEMEXPORING THE BEST PRACTICES AND RESILIENCY
NATION BUILDERSLorenzo B. Rellosa, born on August 24, 1967, is a devoted father to four children and a loving son to his parents, Luis Rellosa(+) and Milagros Buenviaje-Rellosa. He achieved the honor of being the valedictorian at Famy Elementary School but completed only high school at Liceo de Pakil in Laguna. His life journey led him to live in various places, including Famy, Marikina, Cainta, and Anpolo. At the age of 18, Rellosa entered into marriage with his then-girlfriend Annie, despite not having a clear sense of direcon in life. Six months into their marriage, he began working as a tricycle driver before contemplang the idea of becoming an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Japan. He eventually joined the ranks of OFWs, spending several years working abroad before deciding to return home and explore new opportunies. During this phase, he worked as a salesman, selling a variety of products to support his family, and even became a stall owner at Masinag and Marikina market. However, it was his role as a personal driver for a series of CEOs and execuves of prominent companies that ignited his aspiraon to dream big. Over a decade ago, Rellosa was just a dreamer, and aer more than 20 years of undertaking various jobs, he nally took the leap to realize a concept he had in mind. He diligently researched, laid the foundaon, persisted, and, most importantly, had faith in himself. The outcome? He now owns several companies, including TPC and Lueur Lauren Internaonal Corp.AWARDED HONORARYLOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVEOF THE YEARHON. LORENZO B. RELLOSAMAYOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF FAMY, LAGUNA“THE JOURNEY FROM TRICYCLE DRIVER TO MUNICIPAL MAYOR: THE INSPIRING STORY OF TATAY MAYOR LR“89
From the outset, Rellosa held a strong belief that his idea would ulmately succeed. Nevertheless, a successful entrepreneurial journey is rarely straighorward, oen featuring its share of ups and downs, victories and setbacks, unexpected twists and turns, as well as both alliances and conicts. Although he inially thought he would rere and enjoy a comfortable life by the age of 47, life led him in a dierent direcon. Seven years aer his planned rerement, Rellosa has set a new goal: to connue reaching out to fellow Filipinos, movang and inspiring them to work diligently in pursuit of their dreams. Currently, he serves as the Mayor of Famy, Laguna, faithfully serving his constuents and in his 2nd quarter already. Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year90
Lorenzo Rellosa, the current Mayor of Famy Laguna since the 2022 elecon, connues to command a substanal following, even considering his family’s polical inuence during his father’s tenure as Mayor, from 1968 to 1980, when his father, Luis G. Rellosa, held oce. The Rellosa family’s polical clout has endured over the years, parcularly in their hometown of Famy Laguna. Famy, a small town situated in the province of Laguna, is blessed with abundant natural resources suitable for eco-tourism and ferle lowlands that are perfect for growing rice and other valuable crops. Ocially known as the Municipality of Famy (Tagalog: Bayan ng Famy), it holds the status of a 5th class municipality in the Philippines’ Laguna province. As per the 2020 census, it is home to 16,791 residents, making it the province’s least populated municipality. Lorenzo Rellosa’s primary focus in his leadership is encapsulated in the slogan “FAMY NAMAN,” which can be translated as “It’s Famy’s turn to shine now.” As he enters his second term as Mayor of Famy Laguna, he remains steadfast in his commitment to usher in a brighter, more progressive era for the town. This vision includes implemenng innovave programs and projects aimed at improving the lives of his constuents. These iniaves encompass the construcon of a New Municipal Complex, the revitalizaon of the Public Market, the development of Farm-to-Market Roads and By-Pass Roads, increased opportunies through AICS/TUPAD/GIP programs for Famyleños, and the creaon of more jobs and opportunies for the local populaon. Under the banner of his “ARUGA NI TATAY Social Program,” Mayor Rellosa has been able to provide medical and nancial assistance to a signicant number of Famyleños, facilitang their access to various government and private hospitals. Furthermore, a signicant milestone during his tenure is the upcoming construcon of the rst-ever JOLLIBEE establishment in Famy, a development that signies progress and growth in the town under his administraon. In his role as the municipal mayor, Mayor Lorenzo Rellosa, aeconately known as “Tatay Mayor,” persistently dedicated himself to enhancing the well-being of his town. He launched iniaves aimed at enhancing social services, healthcare, employment generaon and dierent infrastructure. His remarkable transformaon from a modest tricycle driver into a revered leader served as a movang story for numerous individuals in his community, encouraging them to pursue their aspiraons and engage acvely in local governance. I. Tourisma. Famy enthusiascally parcipated in the annual ANILAG FESTIVAL, engaging in both the Booth and Float compeons. Fortunately, through the collecve eorts, determinaon, and sacrices of everyone involved, Famy achieved a commendable 4th place ranking in each category. Taking part in such compeons serves to boost morale and inspire our fellow Famylenos to strive harder and showcase the essence of Famy.b. Cacao Farming has been iniated in collaboraon with the members of the SB and the Famy Cacao Farmers Associaon. This endeavor is seen as highly benecial for agri-tourism and the local economy.c. On July 27, 2023, during an ocial business trip to Oyamazaki Kyoto, Japan, led by Mayor Rellosa and Vice Mayor Valois, the Famy LGU had the opportunity to explore various bamboo products and diverse bamboo species. Mayor LR requested the organizaon of a training program, conducted by Japanese crasmen, focused on creang dierent bamboo products and culvang more bamboo trees in our region.1. OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR GAWAD FILIPINO ICON AWARDS 2022 MANILA, PHILIPPINES2. SALUDO EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR HUMANITARIAN AND LEADERSHIP SERVICESALUDO EXCELLENCE AWARD 2022 MANILA, PHILIPPINES3. EXCELLENCE IN HUMANITARIAN & PUBLIC SERVICE MOST OUTSTANDING BUSINESS LEADER/ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR WORLD CLASS EXCELLENCE AWARD AND GLOBAL EXCELLENCE AWARD 2022 KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIATELEPRENEUR CORP.OUTSTANDING MLM COMPANY FOR TELCO LOADS AND SERVICES WORLD CLASS EXCELLENCE AWARD AND GLOBAL EXCELLENCE AWARD 2022 KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA4. AWARDEE, MEN WHO MATTER STARGATE PEOPLE ASIA MAGAZINE 2021 MANILA, PHILIPPINES5. NGO TV EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR LEADERSHIP AND HUMANITARIAN SERVICE THE NGOTV AWARDS BAYANING PILIPINO 2021 MANILA, PHILIPPINES Over a span of just one year as the Municipal Mayor of Famy Laguna, Tatay Mayor LR worked relessly to address the needs and concerns of his constuents. His dedicaon to transparency, accountability, and community development set him apart from the others. His PLATFORM of GOVERNANCE/ THRUSTS as follows: ● Good Governance - Transparent and Accountable Leadership● Agri-Tourism Development- Infrastructure Development; Enhanced Producvity● Creaon of a Favorable Climate for Investment- Review and Updang of exisng local laws related to business and local revenue generaon. ● Care of the Physical Environment - Protecon and Preservaon of Natural Resources. ● Care of the People- Provision of basic Social ServicesBECOMING THE MUNICIPAL MAYOR OF FAMY LAGUNA: AWARDS AND CITATIONS :RISING THROUGH THE RANKS: LEGACY AND IMPACT: Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year91
II. Agriculturea. Rice Program Provision of 3 Units of Hand Tractor; Seeds Distribuon; Rice Farmer Financial Assistance with a total of (Ph392,073); Ferlizer Discount Voucher Program; 33 High Value Crop Farmers Aected of Typhoon Paeng Total Amount of Php 288,257.00; Turnover of Agricultural Machinery from DA Philmech b. Livestock Program- African Swine Fever (ASF) Program; Swine Calibrated Repopulaon Programc. Famy DA has received Excellence Award / Best LGU, SMALL SCALE CATEGORY ( Wet Season 2022); Special Citaon Award ( Dry Season 2023) III. Infrastructurea. Construcon of Municipal Building (Renovaon, Rehabilitaon, Construcon of Municipal Building - Phase I)in Brgy Magdalo - done b. Purchase of Emergency Rescue Vehicles (Local Response)-donec. Purchase of Garbage Trucks (GTs)- done d. Projects that are on going: Development of Rizal Park/Plaza;Establishment of Sanitary Landll - Phase II; Lot Acquision for the Municipal Complex; Emergency Alert System with Live Monitoring (Famy SENYAS II) and Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) Acvies; Renovaon of Stage l(Workshops, procurement of devices, eld works, technical experts, etc.). e. INAWASAN RIVER PROJECT Phase 2 to be nished this year. This project was built to strengthen and protect our ood prone areas through riprapping of the Inawasan River Banks. f. CONSTRUCTION OF MUNICIPAL COMPLEX. This project will be the symbol of change that is about to come to our hometown. It will not merely focus on beaucaon; the LGU of FAMY will use this to bring other naonal agencies in one place to be accessible to all Famylenos. IV. Healtha. Improved Healthcare Infrastructure- renovaon of RHU facilies. b. Emergency Response Services- invested in requesng addional ambulances for FAMY and trained personnel to ensure rapid response to medical emergencies, potenally saving lives.c. Partnerships with Healthcare Providers: Collaborated with DOH Region 4-A to expand healthcare services and resources available to Famylenos; medical and dental mission services for Famy. V. Disaster Risk Reducon and Managementa. Famy Senyas Local Response System- an innovave emergency alert system named Famy Senyas Local Response System. For the year 2023, this system has been enhanced with the implementaon of the phase 2 which included installaon of live monitoring system municipality-wide and establishment of Command Center. b. 24/7 Response Operaonsc. Provision of Local Response Vehicles to Barangay Emergency Response Teams (BERT)- The MDRRMC through the iniave of the Local Development Council has provided each BERT with a Local Response Vehicle, which they can use for their response operaons.VI. Social Servicesa. Social Pension for 1,150 senior cizens ( Q1 & Q2) b. Supplemental Feeding Program to 600 studentsc. Educaonal Assistance Ph2000 each to 260 studentsd. Shelter Assistance ( Bahay Tao Project) - distribuon of construcon materials to 150 individualse. Programs for Child laborersf. DSWD Assistance TUPAD, AICS and GIP programg. Guarantee Leer from Mayor Rellosa in Quirino Medical Center and Laguna Provincial Hospital for Famy constuents h. Famyleños Scholarship Program wherein Mayor Rellosa awarded Ph10,000 to college students. i. Mayor Rellosa’s SALARY- 20 barangays and dierent sectors in Famy receive the monthly salary of Tatay Mayor LR unl May 2025.j. People’s Day- Mayor Rellosa reaches out to dierent barangays by holding a weekly PEOPLE’s DAY wherein he meets the constuents and helps them with their issues in life. k. Medical Mission/ Dental Mission- through Mayor Rellosa’s connecon, he was able to invite dierent agencies, hospitals and clinics to Famy to give FREE medical and dental to his constuents. Future Plans Towards Wealth and Progress: 1. Laging Ready ID System2. FMR3. Road Widening 4. Science High School 5. Polytechnic College6. Central Terminal7. Bagsakan Center In the inspiring journey of Tatay Mayor Lorenzo Rellosa, from a humble tricycle driver to the esteemed leader of Famy Laguna, one can nd the embodiment of the human spirit’s boundless potenal. His remarkable rise to the role of municipal mayor not only showcases his unwavering dedicaon and hard work but also reects the hopes and aspiraons of the people of Famy. As he connues to serve his beloved constuents with passion and commitment, Mayor LR stands as a shining testament to the power of resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in the promise of a brighter future. His story will forever be etched in the annals of Famy’s history, a source of inspiraon for generaons to come, reminding us all that greatness can indeed emerge from the most humble of beginnings.Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year92
NATION BUILDERSPoverty is a global social problem characterized by the lack of access by the individuals and households to their basic necessies. They have inadequate access to human capital, enterprise, infrastructure, natural, public instuons and knowledge. Moreover, it is also caused by the inequitable and unequal distribuon of income and opportunies. The poor starts with very low capital and would eventually nd themselves trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty as capital diminishes from generaon to generaon. With this reality, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aims to eliminate poverty and reduce inequalies by 2030. This views aims not just to increase income but to eliminate poverty, address inequality and provide employment. To do such, several intervenons have been put in place. The Local Government Unit of Catmon supports this goal through its execuve branch by implemenng programs, projects and acvies combang the eect of poverty and in its long term goal – eliminate the mulfaceted cycle of poverty in the locality. These are the social welfare PPAs accomplishments of the Oce of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development in alleviang poverty to dierent vulnerable sectors. Women Sector1. Skills training and livelihood programs for unemployed women sector – These are designed as income generang acvity for housewives staying at home. Producve and earning at their own places is an eecve intervenon for those number of populaon of women undergraduate. AWARDED HONORARYLOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVEOF THE YEARHON. AVIS GINOO MONLEONMAYOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF CATMON, CEBU93
SKILLS TRAINING ON RAG MAKING AND PROVISION OF STARTER KITSBUGASAN SA KABABAYEN-ANSUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODASSISTANCE PROGRAM A rice-retailing small scale business opportunies for women associaon. Moreover, prior to the provision of this program, a simple booking and nancial literacy training for the beneciaries was conducted to ensure for the sustainability of the program. This program provided capital assistance to those small-scale businesses for women, like sari-sari store and food fending. This is to give addional capital subject for monitoring for 3 months for micro-enterprises.Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year94
Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year95 Series of Self Enhancement and Capacity Building acvies for the Potenal and Idened women leaders at the community level was also facilitated. The purpose of this acvity primarily focused on empowering and enhancing their capacies in leading and dealing with dierent circumstances that may help their decision making for self-suciency, both in physical and nancial condion. In partnership with the naonal program, the senior cizens of the locality, who are eligible of the program condionality beneted from the monthly cash subsidy. This is mainly for their basic needs. Daycare Centers - the objecve of this program concentrated on reducing one of the eect of poverty which is the increasing numbers of malnutrion among the most vulnerable sector in the family – the children, parcularly those aging 5 years old and below. Most of these children are found in the daycare centers, thus, in order to address the prevailing problem, a supplementary feeding program was iniated per barangay. The program runs for 120 days, preparatory acvies were weighing upon entry, aer 60 days and aer 120 days of implementaon. This is to ensure the eecvity and to monitor the nutrional status of these targeted children. Pantawid Pamilya Pilipino Program – the led agency of this poverty alleviaon program is the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The locality counterpart is to give assistance to the deployed personnel in the implementaon of the program in barangay level and to ensure that the beneciaries are eligible both in educaon and health condionalies. Moreover, the Grantee beneciaries are also encourage to aend the Family Development Session in a monthly basis where they can learn topics on nancial management, home management and other related. By complying all of the program condions, the households can received a monthly subsidy purposely for the educaonal needs, health needs, rice subsidy and others. Self Enhancement and Capacity Building acvies for person with disability leaders per barangay through their Chapter Associaons. The purpose of this acvity primarily focused on empowering and enhancing their capacies in leading and dealing with dierent circumstances that may help their decision making for self-suciency, both in physical and nancial condion. This feeding program is in partnership by both naonal government and non-government organizaon, namely: Gawad Kalinga – Central Visayas and Rise and Rebuild Internaonal Foundaon, Inc. They implemented centralize community kitchen inside the vicinity of the school with the involvement of volunteer parents and youth organizaons. It runs usually from 60-120 school days. Target beneciaries are those tagged as wasted and severely wasted upon the assessment of school nurses.ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION TO ANNUAL NATIONAL WOMEN’S MONTH CELEBRATIONCOMMUNITY BASED / OUTREACH FEEDING PROGRAMPERSON WITH DISABILITY(PWD AND SENIOR CITIZEN’S SECTOR)SOCIAL PENSION PROGRAMINVOLVEMENT TO THE VARIOUS ADVOCACY ACTIVITIES RELATED TO GENDER BASED AND GENDER EQUALITY AND WOMEN AND CHILD RELATED LAWS.CHILDREN AND YOUTH SECTORELEMENTARY SCHOOLSFAMILY AND COMMUNITY
Awarded Honorary Local Chief Executive of the Year96 The Local Government Unit of the Municipality of Catmon geared the full support to the Republic Act 9710 of 2019 also known as Magna Carta of Women (MCW). This comprehensive women’s human rights law seeks to eliminate the discriminaon through the recognion, protecon, fulllment, and promoon of the rights of women, especially those belonging to the marginalized sectors of our society. This is highlighted to the programs and services that addressed any discriminaon against women and promoted gender and equality among all women, men, boys and girls of all classes and races parcipate as equals and have equal value. They enjoy equal access to resources, freedoms and opportunies to exercise control. A series of orientaon and workshop of Empowerment and Rearmaon of Paternal Abilies (ERPAT) to idened couples of Brgy. Anapog, Brgy. Cambangkaya, Brgy. Ginabucan and Brgy. Flores. The acvity aims to create a group of volunteers of role mode/ disciplined fathers per barangays. and in the long run idenfy an associaon for men. This will become as partners in implemenng laws related to women and children. Lastly, with all this eorts, the Local Government Unit reduce and lessen the rate of poverty in the locality by providing proper access to food, monetary help, and basic essenals to the households and families belonging to the below the poverty line. The above campaigns are connuous programs and services of the LGU in raising awareness of gender equality among men and women in all aspects and opportunies in the society. The implementaon of these acvies are evaluated and monitored annually by the GAD Focal Point System of the municipal level for the purposes of enhancing and improvement, as needed. Series of Lecture Fora on an-drug abuse awareness, teenage pregnancy, bullying, social media awareness, Sexual Orientaon, Gender Identy and Expression (SOGIE) and other related issues aecng youths. The objecve of this forum is to have awareness on the eects of those situaon to the youth physical and psychological funconality. For this year, it was conducted at Brgy. Binongkalan, Brgy. Cabungaan and Brgy. Ginabucan.Yakap Bayan Program – this acvity was iniated by the Municipal Drug Abuse Council (MADAC) for the reintegraon to the community of the drug dependents. It is also a diversion acvity and physical wellness acvity for them. It is a 10 day acvity conducted in their respecve barangays, some of the acvies under cash for work is clean-up drive along the barangay roads and barangay covered courts. Distribuon of school supplies to the Solo Parent beneciaries enrolled in school both in elementary and secondary level. This is to lessen the expenses of the households during school enrollment by providing the basic school supplies to the children required by their subject teachers. Instead of buying these items, the household will then use the budget to other miscellaneous fees at school. In support to the Local Council for the Protecon of Children, facilitaon of the conduct of Children’s Assembly 2023. During the event, discussion of Child Rights which put emphasis to the salient points against discriminaon to those girl and boy children and youths with physical and psychological disability. This was aended by ten (10) representaves from 20 barangays of the locality assisted by their BCPC/ BVAWC Focal. PYAP Youth Camp 2023 parcipated by 20 barangays held in Barangay Duyan, Catmon, Cebu with a theme: “Fostering Relaonship, Shaping Success, Nurturing Leaders of Future today!” It aims to create rapport among youths in the far ung areas and strengthen this connecon without prejudicing their preserve tradion and culture, especially among women.CAPACITY BUILDING ACTIVITY OF YOUTHSCAPACITY BUILDING ACTIVITY FOR ERPAT VOLUNTEERSCASH FOR WORK FOR DRUG DEPENDENTCOMPLETERS OF AFTERCARE PROGRAM
NATION BUILDERSVice Mayor Banjo Santos Estrella is not new to public service. He is the third child among ve siblings, born of the late Pag-asa “Boy’ Estrella, former municipal mayor of the Municipality of Guiguinto, and Dr. Loida Estrella, Ph.D., a rered district supervisor of the Department of Educaon. Growing up as the son of former mayor Pag-asa “Boy” Estrella, Vice Banjo was a rsthand witness of his father’s unwavering dedicaon to the service of his fellow Guiguinteños. At an early age, he took pride in the values of dedicaon, perseverance, and hard work to provide quality, inclusive, and seless public service to his fellow Guiguinteros. These principles form the core of the Estrella legacy of public service in Guiquinto. His career in public service began as a municipal councilor, where he authored numerous ordinances that proved to be crical in propelling Guiguinto into what it is today – a progressive rst-class municipality. Heeding to the resounding call of his fellow Guiguinteños, Vice Banjo, ran for and won as the Municipality’s eenth (15th) Vice Mayor in 2013, and became the presiding ocer of the eight (8th) and ninth (9th) Sangguniang Bayan of the Municipality of Guiguinto. His commitment extended as regional member of the Board of Director for District II of the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines-Bulacan Chapter (2013-2016) and as its Provincial Chapter President for the term 2016-2019. He was also elected as the League’s Press Relaon Ocer for Region III (2013-2016), and currently serves as the League’s provincial President and Treasurer for Region III.AWARDED HONORARYVICE MAYOROF THE YEARHON. BANJO S. ESTRELLAVICE MAYOR, GOVERNMENT OF GUIGUINTO, BULACANILLUMINATING THE ROAD TO INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT: THE RETURN OF GUIGUINTO’S STAR IN PUBLIC SERVICE97
Awarded Honorary Vice Mayor of the Year98 As a testament to his dedicaon and commitment in providing quality leadership and public service to his fellow Guiguinteños, Vice Banjo was awarded 1st Runner Up of Gawad Galing Sanggunian – Most Outstanding Presiding Ocer for the year 2015. Acknowledging that devoon and dedicaon alone is not enough to provide Guiguinteños the quality of public service that they deserve, Vice Banjo endeavored to equip himself with the theorecal and academic knowledge to further prepare him in his pursuit. In 2012, he earned his Masters in Development Management and Governance from the University of Maka. He also successfully nished his short course at the Academy of Presiding Ocers of the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines and the University of the Philippines (UP) Naonal College of Public Administraon and Governance (NCPAG), Center for Local and Regional Governance (CLRG) in 2018. Beyond his role as Vice Mayor of the Municipality of Guiguinto, Vice Banjo is acvely engaged in the Freemasonry, as an enthusiasc and proud member of Pulo ng Iilan (Pulilan, Bulacan) Lodge No. 439.He is happily married to Ann Margareth Santos Estrella of Marilao, Bulacan, and they are proud parents to their son, Prince Banjo Santos Estrella, Jr. POST-COVID SANGGUNIAN Vice Mayor Banjo Estrella assumed oce during a very challenging me. He was elected as vice mayor of Guiguinto when the world was just slowly emerging from the grinding halt brought about by COVID. Under his stewardship, the Sanggunian adeptly navigated the challenges brought about by a post-COVID world. To date, the Sangguniang Bayan of Guiguinto has passed a total of 36 Ordinances and 421 Resoluons. As a fair, just, pro-acve leader that he is, Vice Banjo collaboravely worked with the dierent councilors of the eleventh (11th) Sanggunian to ensure the passage of crical ordinances.
Awarded Honorary Vice Mayor of the Year99THE GARDEN CAPITAL OF THE PHILIPPINESPEACE AND ORDER AND DEVELOPMENT Guiguinto is known all over the Philippines as the Garden Capital of the Philippines. Evidence to this are the numerous gardening stores that oer exquisite owering plants and landscaping services. In support of Guiguinto’s Halamanan Fesval, the Sangguniang Bayan, under Vice Banjo’s leadership passed the Halamanan Celebraon Ordinance of Guiguinto. This ordinance instuonalizes the celebraon of the Halamanan Fesval and the playing of Himno ng Guiguinto and the Sentenaryo ng Guiguinto. This measure fan the ame of pride within each end every Guiguintenos, making them the best partner in community building. Acknowledging that peace and order plays a crical role to development and in encing investors to invest in Guiguinto, Vice Banjo and the the Sangguniang Bayan passed an ordinance mandang all business establishments operang within the territorial jurisdicon of Guiguinto to install Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems. This measure sought to deter criminal acvies and expedite invesgaons. An ordinance mandang the random drug tesng of municipal employees was also passed under his leadership to ensure a drug-free workforce in Guiguinto. In a bid to enhance the safety and security of jail personnel and persons deprived of liberty, an ordinance prohibing drone operaons within 150-meter radius was also passed under Vice Banjo’s leadership. This legislaon is crical in prevenng escapes and curbing the smuggling of illegal and prohibited items.
Awarded Honorary Vice Mayor of the Year100 Under Vice Banjo’s leadership is the amendment of Guiguinto Ordinance regarding the establishment of breast-feeding corners in both private and public oces. This is to help breast feeding mothers in caring for their children with ease and convenience. This measure is a testament to Vice Banjo’s commitment in ensuring the empowerment and development of all genders. Currently, there is also a pending measure before the Sanggunian that aims to protect the rights of every member of the LGBTQI community in Guiguinto. In the realm of infrastructure, Vice Banjo has championed an ordinance that establishes proper sewage treatment and septage management system. This iniave is crucial for the proper sewage treatment and septage management in Guiguinto. Through this ordinance, the Sanggunian, under Vice Banjo’s leadership acknowledges the Municipality’s share in its responsibility when it comes to the management and the improvement of water quality within Guiguinto. Currently, Vice Banjo is endeavoring to construct a legislave building to provide a more appropriate oce space for the sta and personnel of the Sangguniang Bayan, thereby enhancing the quality of public service. The rapid development of Guiguinto has resulted in a growing demand for telephone, internet, and electric services. These add up to the congeson of overhead wires that pose hazard to trac and safety of the public, and a nuisance to the panorama of the municipality. To address and correct this, Vice Banjo has proposed the “spaghe wire ordinance”, that once passed, will recfy the problem regarding the wire congeson that has marred Guiguinto. Guiguinto has been plagued by ooding in recent years. To address this, the Municipal Government conducted a study in partnership with the University of the Philippines, to come up with a drainage masterplan for the municipality. In support of this endeavor, the Sangguniang Bayan of Guiguinto under his leadership is currently craing an ordinance that will mandate all new construcon projects within Guiguinto to incorporate their drainage to the Municipality’s drainage master plan. This iniave is a promising soluon to resolve the ooding problem of the municipality. GENDER EMPOWERMENTINFRASTRUCTURE On the healthcare front, Vice Banjo iniated the Silip Mata program, addressing eyesight-related problems among Guiguintenos. Through this program, a paent will be referred to the proper specialists at no cost. Over the years, this personal project of Vice Banjo has alleviated a lot of Guiguintenos eyesight- related problems. In support of the Chiking Ligtas program of the municipality, Vice Banjo, together with his family, became the endorser of said program. The program is an immunizaon drive against measles, rubella, and polio. HEALTHCARE Through Vice Banjo’s dedicated eort, Numerous Guiguintenos have beneted from a cash assistance program in partnership with the oce of Senator Bong Go. This cash assistance program signicantly aided helped Guiguintenos with their daily needs. The Municipal Government of Guiguinto has conceptualized more programs and projects, all aimed towards the connuous progress of Guiguinto. These iniaves presently in the pipeline, will be strongly supported by local legislaon through the combined eorts and colaboraon of the Sangguniang Bayan of Guiguinto under the stewardship of Vice Mayor Banjo S. Estrella. In addion to these commitments, the Sanggunian under Vice Banjo’s leadership is also taking pro-acve steps to ensure the connuous progress of Guiguinto. Engagements with the private sector, socio-civic organizaons, non-government organizaons, and other stakeholders are connuously being conducted to ensure that all legislaons passed by the Sanggunian is responsive to the needs of its stakeholders. It is also a way to engage all stakeholders and collaborate with them in community building. As the acclaimed Garden Capital of the Philippines, Guiguinto, led by Mayor Agatha Paula A. Cruz and fully supported by the Sangguniang Bayan of Guiguinto under the competent leadership of Vice Mayor Banjo S. Estrella’s, is poised to ourish and thrive like the blossoms it is renowned for.FINANCIAL ASSISTANCETOWARDS A MORE PROGRESSIVE GUIGUINTO
NATION BUILDERSTen years ago at the young age of 26, Andreo “Anjong” Ouano Icalina already learned what it means to be a public servant when he started his career in public service as councilor in Barangay Opao, Mandaue City. He spent ve years in this posion before rising to become barangay captain, a good training ground for decision-making to protect and promote the common good. The frontlines have given the young Anjong the taste of true sasfacon in being of services to others, making him all the more driven. Fueled by his passion to help in community development in order to make people’s lives beer, Anjong was successful in his bid for a seat in the Mandaue City Council 2019, where he is currently on his second term. His being a 2nd Lieutenant, Philippine Navy Reservist from 2011 to 2014 equipped him and played a role in his interestand capacity to lead the Mandaue City’s Bantay Dagat that patrols Mandaue’s seawaters at the Mactan Channel, and ready to respond to disasters. Councilor Anjong’s commitment to his tasks can be seen in his acve involvement with the Mandaue City Management Coordinang Commiee, the Mandaue City Peace and Order Council, the Mandaue City Advisory Council, as well as the Vision-Aligned Circle, Mangrove Protecon Board. A graduate of Bachelor of Science in Airline Management at the Royal Chrisan College, he completed his elementary and high school at the Colegio Inmaculada Concepcion.AWARDED HONORARYHON. ANDREO “ANJONG” OUANO ICALINACOUNCILOR, MANDAUE CITY101COUNCILOROF THE YEAR
He experienced jobs in the private sector as load control ocer in AIRPHIL and PAL EXPRESS before gravitang into a life in polics. He is also now a member of the An-Crime and Community Emergency Response Team. Councilor Anjong has since eciently held the chairmanships of the Mandaue City Council Commiee on Agriculture and the Commiee on Peace & Order and Penology, craing legislave measures on these subject maers, as well as issues on environmental protecon specically coastal management. Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year102
Among the pieces of legislaon that he iniated were:• An Ordinance Strengthening and Amending Ordinance No. 09-2003-208 Creang The Manduae City Fisheries And Aquac Resources Management Council (MCFARMC) Pursuant To R.A. 8550, Otherwise Known As The Philippine Fisheries Code Of 1998, Adding The Creaon Of An Execuve Commiee And Several Commiees With Its Corresponding Funcons• An Ordinance Creang Addional Planlla Posions Under The Mandaue Agricultural Oce And Appropriang Funds Thereof• Ordinance Providing Fuel Subsidy To All Fisherfolks And/Or Fishermen Who Own Motorized Banca In Mandaue City• An Ordinance Instuonalizing Organic Agriculture In The City Of Mandaue Providing Funds Therefore, And For Other Purposes• An Ordinance Instuonalizing Vegetable-Based Farmer-Sciensts Research, Development and Extension (RDE) Training Program For the City of Mandaue And Appropriang Funds Therefore• An Ordinance Amending Secon 5 of the City Ordinance 13-2014-950, Entled “An Ordinance Creang the Mandaue City An-Illegal Fishing Task Force and Establishing Funcons Therefore”• A Resoluon Requesng Department Of Agriculture-7 (DA) And Department Of Environment And Natural Resources-7 (DENR) To Jointly Develop And Idenfy A Ridge-To-Reef Ecosystem Based Urban Development Project Site In The City Of MandaueAwarded Honorary Councilor of the Year103
He also pushed for local legislaon in response to the outbreak of the African Swine Fever (ASF) in the country, in order to protect local hog raisers. For peace and order, Councilor Anjong proposed for the City Government and local PNP to focus on homeless minors who loiter at nights in Mandaue City. As well, to improve the systems within the Mandaue City Government, he authored an ordinance creang the Management Informaon Systems Oce (Miso) to streamline the city’s services. Born on April 24, 1987, the now 36-year-old Councilor Anjong Ouano-Icalina strives to connue to deliver seless service, embodying the Ouano brand of service that made a dierence in Mandaue City as established by Mandaue’s Old Man, the late Mandaue City Mayor Alfredo OuanoAwarded Honorary Councilor of the Year104
NATION BUILDERSHaving been fostered in a family of academicians, entrepreneurs, and public servants, Miss Rachelle has always known the weight of her name. Despite her naiveness as a child, she knew she belonged to a prominent and reputable family, one whose legacy she needed to live up to. Growing up as the eldest child in the family might seem overwhelming to some, but to her, it is a full-circle kind of life. Understanding her reality, she made sure that everything she did was directed toward one, true goal—excellence. She did this as a daughter, sister, friend, student, and leader. From then on, she has consistently endeavored for the best; the limelight became her friend. Considering the challenges that come with pursuing greatness, she knew what she needed to work on in order to realize her aspiraons. That alone was a manifestaon of her ability to build a world of her own. In her years as a student, Miss Rachelle was at the top of her class, graduang with ying colors. She took up Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management at Asian Development Foundaon College (ADFC), where she graduated as a Magna Cum Laude in 2013. Then, she ventured into the science of teaching by taking up a Supplemental Program in Secondary Educaon at ADFC in 2017. To expand her horizons even further, she took up Master in Management (2016) and Master of Arts in Educaon with Specializaon in Educaonal Management (2020), at ADFC. To conclude her academic journey, she took up Doctor of Philosophy in Educaonal Management at ADFC.AWARDED HONORARYHON. RACHELLE ERICA PINEDACOUNCILOR, CITY GOVERNMENT OF TACLOBAN, LEYTE105COUNCILOROF THE YEAR
Miss Rachelle believes that a true public servant values the environment and understands its vital role in sustaining our society as we know it. Hence, she is at the helm of creang and implemenng sustainable development programs and policies. She advocates for environmental conservaon, economic growth, and social equity. She uses her plaorm as a young legislator to promote policies that bring progress while protecng our environment. Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year106
Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year107 Then, she ventured into the science of teaching by taking up a Supplemental Program in Secondary Educaon at ADFC in 2017. To expand her horizons even further, she took up Master in Management (2016) and Master of Arts in Educaon with Specializaon in Educaonal Management (2020), at ADFC. To conclude her academic journey, she took up Doctor of Philosophy in Educaonal Management at ADFC. Aer gaining her bachelor’s degree, Miss Rachelle immediately landed a job that has forever transformed her outlook in life, especially toward the youth. Now in the teaching profession, she considers herself a catalyst of change. As an educator at ADFC, she hones young minds and harness their potenal to become beacons of a progressive, innovave, and sustainable future. At the same me, she is the Head of the Liberal Arts Department. Her school is one of the few learning instuons in the region that promote gender equality and inclusivity. It also provides scholarship programs among less privileged students. Some of these scholarships are granted to the school by its partners. As a City Councilor of Tacloban, she makes sure to maximize her oce and plaorm to promote acon-driven policies and to reach out to as many people as she can, especially those who belong to the marginalized and underserved sectors. Among all of her endeavors, she resonates the most with being a public servant because she gets to implement programs that benet her constuents. Her oce provides job opportunies among young adults, in the hopes of helping them provide for their families, fund their educaon, or head start their careers. Miss Rachelle’s post in the City Council is strengthened by her posion as the Chairman of the Naonal Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL) Region VIII, a strong league of elected young lawmakers across the country. Addionally, through the Strategic Disaster Risk Management Leadership Program, which she earned at Asian Instute of Management in 2021, Miss Rachelle’s oce raises awareness on risk management and resiliency. Being born and raised in a country that experiences natural catastrophes on a frequent basis, she understands the importance of disaster risk reducon and management. As such, she leads her community in preparing for potenal crises, with the end-goal of safeguarding lives and resources. Having been immersed in these real-world challenges, she has realized how important it is to pursue knowledge. Hence, as an educator, she pioneers in raising awareness among her student populace and colleagues on building a sustainable society. She hopes to inspire future generaons to aim for a balance between progress and sustainability. Advancing her advocacy on sustainable development, Miss Rachelle became a parcipant of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Iniave Professional Fellows Program (YSEALI PFP), a two-way U.S. Department of State exchange program designed to strengthen people-to-people es between young leaders from Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste, Vietnam, and the United States. Through virtual acvies and intensive fellowships designed to broaden their professional experse and enhance their leadership capabilies, YSEALI PFP provides emerging Southeast Asian leaders with the opportunity to gain rst-hand experiences in, and exposure to, U.S. public and private sector oces working on a variety of issues related to civic engagement, economic empowerment, governance and society, and sustainable development and the environment. Through YSEALI PFP, Miss Rachelle learned more about sustainable development that focuses on creang beer legislaon grounded on praccal and realisc methodologies. This opportunity was drawn from her rsthand experience as a Taclobanon woman who survived the Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest typhoons in history, that unimaginably devastated her locality in 2013. The proceeding events revealed the city’s lack of disaster preparedness and overall planning. Regardless of the intent, the post-disaster recovery projects were proven to be unsustainable. It was the tourism and hospitality industry that took a heavy blow. Worse, the displaced typhoon vicms were economically disadvantaged even more. Although the United States has experienced disasters and calamies, it has been able to consistently deliver equipped responses, programs, and projects that benet their communies. Miss Rachelle aimed at bringing this level of competence to her community. She intended to know about their funcons and operaons so she could adapt this to her community. She believes that the quality of response and recovery is a by-product of comprehensive preparedness. In order for recovery projects to work, they must be inherently sustainable.
Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year108 Miss Rachelle’s parcipaon in YSEALI PFP allowed her to be immersed in ecotourism development that is tantamount to creang more opportunies for her city. This would not only advance conservaon eorts but also educate the locals, government ocials, and tourists on the importance of preserving the environment. Through the program, she obtained knowledge on craing and developing programs and policies that implore the commerce industry to build sustainable businesses and create jobs for the displaced vicms of the typhoon. Most signicantly, the YSEALI PFP permied her to connect with a diverse and dynamic group of young leaders, foster potenal collaboraons and partnerships, and enhance their capabilies in public service. Miss Rachelle aspires to build projects that migate the adverse eects of climate-change. One of the sectors she sees viable for this goal is ecotourism. Ecotourism is a thriving industry that helps conserve the natural environment. It also raises environmental awareness among locals and tourists alike. Apart from environmental protecon, Miss Rachelle is also ardent about programs for the elderly. Her oce has passed ordinances that cater to the elderly, one of which is the senior cizens code. This program aims to put paramount focus on the needs of the elderly who were once thriving and full of dreams back in the days. Given their old age, it is most appropriate that our legislaon renders necessary services toward the elderly. She personally idenes with this as she has high regards for the wisdom and warmth of the elderly. Being a mulfaceted woman brings both honor and pressure. Yet, Miss Rachelle never wavers in the pursuit of her dreams and that of her community. She leads her people by example and perpetuates a culture of compassion. In spite of the challenges she faced, she emerged stronger. In this male-dominated world, one may grope in the dark, but she has proved otherwise. She has shown that a woman can set her standards high, based on her merits. She is an example of a woman who is way more than what society labels her to be. She then hopes that her story inspires women and children to be in control of their fate. It is her mission to go around and implore others to stop seeking outside validaon and start living life according to our will. We pave our own path and carve our own dreams. As Rachelle navigates this complex world, she is brought to a moment of epiphany—that life becomes truly meaningful if lived in service to others. Seless success means sharing our opportunies o others so that as one, we achieve a common goal. This is Rachelle’s legacy—to extend herself to the people around her. This has changed the trajectory of her life. Striving for excellence is no longer a personal pursuit, but rather a driving force for the good of the world around me. At this point, she knows she can do anything with grit and convicon as she is catapulted by her inherent desire to serve others. With this, she puts full condence in her capacity to bring out the best in others, just as she exhibited excellence every step of her way toward a life she dreamed.
NATION BUILDERSRainier Glenn de Luna Oliveros, also known as “Bosing”, is the rst-born son of entrepreneurs, Mr. Glenn and Mrs. Edna de Luna Oliveros. He was born on October 8, 1980 in Lucena City, Quezon. He spent his childhood at Gumaca West Central School where he was crowned as Mr. Gumaca West Central School in 1989. He then connued his studies at Gumaca Naonal High School and was crowned as Mr. Gumaca NaonalHigh School in 1993. He stayed in Manila during his college years to study Bachelor of Arts in Business Management at Colegio de San Juan de Letran and became the Owner and Operaons Manager of Rien & Rainy Appliances and Furniture in Gumaca, Quezon. Before he entered polics, he was an ordinary cizen who enjoys going for long-rides on his motorcycles and it has been his hobby and form of therapy since then. He is the President of the Federaon of Quezon Riders. He is also the President of Force-A Motorcycle Club – Gumaca, Quezon wherein they organize the Endurance Challenge yearly on the day of his birthday. He is a member of Law Enforcer Riders Associaon of the Philippines (LERAP) in Manila City. He used to represent Royal Eneld Motorcycles in the Boss Ironman Motorcycle Challenge. He is the Vice Chairman of Tau Gamma Phi Gumaca Council and a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles. He is an Army Reservist and a member of KBNet and Rotary Club.AWARDED HONORARYCOUNCILOROF THE YEARHON. RAINIER GLENN “BOSING RIEN” DE LUNA OLIVEROSCOUNCILOR, MUNICIPALITY OF GUMACA, QUEZONBEYOND TRADITIONAL POLITICS109
Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year110 He is the current President of the Parent-Teacher Associaon of Gumaca West Central School and Gumaca Naonal High School. Aside from being a businessman and a public servant, he is also a husband to Alona Casllo-Oliveros and a father of 6 wonderful and smart kids — Rainbow, Damon, Evel, Bono, Mariel, and Venum. Hon. Rien, a rst-me councilor, ranked 2nd in the 2022 local elecons in the Municipality of Gumaca, Quezon. He has managed to gain the trust and condence of the people with his charisma, grit, dedicaon, and honesty even before he was elected. Years before he ran as a town councilor, he was an ordinary cizen and a businessman who has been extending help to those in need, especially during the pandemic. He was seen outside giving out food packs to the frontliners, school supplies, etc., and giving people a ride as public transportaon was limited during those mes. Despite beingcalled “Bosing”, he never acted like one. He has proven in his everyday life that he is one of the people and has always been for the people. He is well-known and respected due to his commendable performance, his character and pakikisama sa kapwa. Even aer winning the elecon, he connued to visit his constuents residing at the town center and remote areas in the municipality to listen and address their concerns. As the people say,“Simula noong bago mag kampanya at pagkatapos ng kampanya, hindi nagbago – walang pinipili puntahan, pakisamahan at tulungan.”
Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year111 That made people admire him even more. According to them, policians disappear aer elecons and he’s the only one who did not. He did not only give help to the people, but he also gave them hope and inspiraon; most importantly, the people were able to experience genuine public service — one that is beyond any type of polics. His life before polics is no dierent from his way of living now. He sll manages to juggle work and his social life. The people see him every day roaming around town – aending both simple and grand occasions, going out of his way to meet with his constuents, and accepng invitaons from ordinary cizens in his town despite how far the place is from the town center. His way of serving the people is dierent from what we usually read on the news, on social media, and even in books wrien by infamous polical sciensts. In the world of polics, there are two types of policians – the tradional polician and a true public servant. People recognize him as the laer. His work doesn’t stop in the Sangguniang Bayan’s Session Hall every Monday where he passes ordinances that are truly relevant and will benet the masses. People can be seen outside of the Municipal Hall and his own home lining up to meet him to either extend their gratude or seek assistance. One would say that in his rst year as a town councilor, he went beyond his job descripon and has connuously helped his constuents. He is not afraid to admit that he is new as a councilor hence, he appreciates construcve cricisms and suggesons for the benet of everybody. He devotes much of his me in dierent barangays, casually aending simple birthday celebraons i.e. nakikihalubilo. He is not fond of special treatment. He eats and drinks what is served on the table and extends his utmost gratude. As stated, his public service is beyond policking (an acvity undertaken for polical reasons or ends; promong oneself and/or one’s policies.). It is also noteworthy that Hon. Rien Oliveros changed the polical game in Gumaca, Quezon by going beyond tradional polics. People recognize and admire him. As the masses repeatedly say, “hindi namimili ng pakikisamahan at tutulungan.” and referred to him as “madaling lapitan at nag-iisang konsehal na makikita at makakasama mo kahit saan.” In his rst year as a Councilor and Chairman on Disaster Management and Public Safety, he passed two ordinances and he is planning to le 3 more ordinances related to his commiee. He was able to lead and work producvely with his assigned District in town.
He has been invited to all sorts of occasions and has also received recognions from dierent sectors in the past year. He was elected as the overall SPTA President in his alma maters, Gumaca West Central School and Gumaca Naonal High School during the school year 2022-2023 and was re-elected for the S.Y. 2023-2024. During his rst term as the SPTA President of both schools, the associaon’s funds were spent eciently and he has shown eecve leadership. He was also a Gold Awardee for the Gawad Bigkis 3.0 during the Brigada Eskwela 2023. It is truly undeniable that in a span of one year, Hon. Rien was able to encompass dierent sectors in the Municipality — youth, senior cizens, PWDs, women, LGBTQIA+, sherfolks and farmers, at iba pang mga maliliit na manggagawa. He also focuses on the dierent needs of his constuents in terms of good health and well-being, disaster preparedness, educaon, public protecon and safety; reducing inequalies, risk reducon and resiliency management, etc. It is also noteworthy that he sees public service as a commitment to the people – a commitment to do and be beer; and serve the people beer. Ordinances on Commiee on Disaster Management and Public Safety:● Kautusang Bayan Blg. 25-2023Kautusang Bayan na Nag-aatas sa mga May-ari o Tagapamahala ng mga Swimming Resort, Beach Resort, at ng Iba Pang Kahalintulad Nito sa Bayan ng Gumaca, Quezon na Magtalaga ng Nakahimpil na “Safety Personnel” at Magkaroon ng Nakahandang mga Kagamitang Pangunang Lunas at Magkaroon ng Nakahandang mga Kagamitang Pangunang Lunas at Nagpapataw ng Parusa o/at Multa sa Sinumang Lalabag Dito.● Kautusang Bayan Blg. 2-2023Kautusang Bayan na Nagtatakda ng mga Alituntunin at Patakaran sa Paglalagay ng mga Kagamitang Pangkaligtasan sa mga Lansangang Madalas Pangyarihan ng Anumang Sakuna at Aksidente sa Bayan ng Gumaca, Quezon at Naglalaan ng Taunang Pondo Para Dito.Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year112
NATION BUILDERSA glimpse at her social media channel reveals a life devoted to helping, giving, and serving. Photographs of the elderly receiving gis on their birthdays, a man who was given a bicycle to help him in his livelihood, and of children smiling are published regularly to her 10,000 followers on Facebook. Enter the colorful life of Wowee Manguerra, the beloved councilor from Pasay City’s second district. So beloved to her constuents that she nished the 2022 race at second with 67,678 votes – 67,678 souls who expect this rebrand polician to change their lives for the beer. Her passion for helping started at a very young age. Manguerra’s eyes were opened to reality very early as she started helping in their family business of building jeepneys. As she was already earning long before she nished schooling, she would become the lifeline of her classmates who needed help in their tuion fees and everyday expenses. “I grew up working very hard, at seven or eight years old I was already working in our store. My mind was always in doing business. I rarely had me for games or for making friends. My life back then revolved around school and doing business and vice versa,” Manguerra recalls of her schoolyears in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. “I wasn’t the friendliest kid back then, but whenever my classmates would need help nancially, they knew that they could always approach me. That’s one perk of already earning money at a young age.” Although her life isn’t your typical rags-to-riches story, Manguerra’s life wasn’t without its own challenges. “At 12 years old, I was adopted by a Chinese family. They recognized my knack for building things also and my sense of responsibility. My biological mother let me go.” Instead of losing faith, Manguerra knew that that day would become the start of the rest of her life.AWARDED HONORARYHON. EDITHA “WOWEE” Y. MANGUERRACOUNCILOR, CITY GOVERNMENT OF PASAY113COUNCILOROF THE YEAR
Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year114 “I was happy because my adopted parents were really kind to me. I really felt loved; I easily forgot that I was adopted.” From there, she channeled her passion in building and nkering into helping her new family with their business. “My passion was really into designing jeepneys, then it turned into a passion for building houses, interior design, and basically creang beauful things – combining colors, just building stu. I wanted to be a Civil Engineer but as it turns out, I graduated with a degree in Automove Engineering Services.” Wowee would grow up in a loving and privileged family. Money wasn’t really an issue in their household. But despite that, she connued to live life simply: no vices, no unnecessary expenses. “My adopted mother would treat me completely as her own. She inslled in me and my siblings that we should live simply. We grew up with respect for elders and making sure that the trust that we were given is not wasted.”“Upon assuming the role of a councilor, my initial step involved enhancing my assistance to others, particularly those in the greatest need. Initially, I offered aid to my classmates, followed by my family, and eventually extended this support to my employees. However, being a public servant signicantly amplies one’s capacity to provide assistance to a broader range of individuals.”
Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year115 Now, she is already a senior cizen and has entered her third and last consecuve term as a City Councilor of Pasay. But all the years did not change who Wowee is – she connued to help others but now in a much greater capacity. “One of my rst projects in 2017 was the “Senior Ko, Pasyal Ko” program. My parents really inslled in us the love and respect for the elderly and that was the reason why I made it a point to help them.” Per city ordinance, Senior Cizens in Pasay City can watch movies in theatres free of charge but Manguerra wanted to give them more. She purchased an air-condioned vehicle especially for the elderly, employed caregivers, and brought them to out-of-town trips. Most of the funding came straight from her own pocket. “I believe that there are no greater people on the face of the earth than our elders. That’s why, whenever we can, we help them. We see to it that our centenarians receive a small cash gi, a simple token of gratude, and a cercate on their birthday.” Someday, I will grow old. I’ve been aware of this reality since my youth, which is why I’ve consistently held deep respect and aecon for the elderly, regardless of whether I’m acquainted with them or not. This approach also serves as a form of seng an example through leadership. Aside from senior cizens, the youth also have a special place in the councilor’s heart. “For the youth, we hold feeding programs give them lugaw, coon candies, popcorn, ice cream; it’s not much honestly but the smiles on their faces is what makes it worthwile.” Ms. Manguerra has become some sort of a celebrity in many neighborhoods in Pasay. People would crowd her whenever she visits their area and for the councilwoman, spending me with them, especially the youth, has never felt like work. “There was this one me when I was aending a graduaon ceremony in one of the city’s schools. The parents of one of the graduang students was nowhere to be found. Right then and there, thought I didn’t have a child of my own, my mother insnct kicked in. I stood beside her, held her ght, and told her as she was tearing up, ‘I am here for you.’ Suddenly, people from all around were cheering for us, applauding us.” The councilor has gained quite a following on Facebook which she uses to serve her constuents beer, especially during the pandemic lockdowns. For her, social media is a tool that must be used for good. “We rae o cash, groceries, and other necessies through Facebook. Every Friday, I see to it that I am with them online for at least three hours. Manguerra always makes it a point that she is in polics not to line her pockets or harbor power and inuence. She says that she’s in it for the exact opposite. “Since I entered polics, I’ve actually been losing money. From educaonal assistance to wheelchairs, medical missions, and cash incenves, most of it comes from my own pocket.” Once a week, a long line of people will form in front of Manguerra’s oce. The councilor would give them P50 each, somemes P100, no quesons asked. For Manguerra, the Pasayenos deserve beer. But for now, she just wants to help those who need it the most. “We don’t ask quesons. Regardless of where they come from, whether they are voters or not, my constuents or not, I just try to help them as much as I can. For most, P50 or P100 isn’t that much, but I know and I witnessed that for these poor families, that’s already a full meal or two for their whole household,” Wowee shares as tears begin to swell around her eyes. To be able to help others, Manguerra also maintains businesses on the side. For her, you would be useless as a public servant if you don’t have the capability to help and to serve – and her many businesses help her do that. “I have many employees, many families depending on me. We have 100 people in our night market, even more in our construcon rm and another hundred as my sta.” These people, over the years, have helped Manguerra establish herself as a successful entrepreneur. And the councilor never forgets to give back. “People have dreams. Like everyone, my employees also dream of having their own house, driving their own vehicle, sending their kids to school. I see to it that I don’t only give them what they need, but to also give them the life they are dreaming of because without them, I wouldn’t even be here, I wouldn’t even be serving.”MANGUERRA, THE PUBLIC SERVANTHELPING FROM HER OWN POCKET It’s not all about the prizes, not about the likes, or the number of followers. For me, it was one way to make the ordinary Pasay cizens feel that there is someone who genuinely loves them,” Ms. Manguerra shares. And true enough, if you scroll through her Facebook page, you’ll see videos of typical Pasayenos profusely thanking their councilor not just for the help and assistance, but for being a mother gure for their district.
The councilor’s unwavering commitment to serving her constuents extended to a remarkable display of aid for re vicms within her district. Recognizing the urgency of the situaon, she promptly orchestrated a mulfaceted relief eort. Alongside providing vital sustenance, such as food and shelter materials, she ensured that nancial aid was readily accessible to help aected families rebuild their lives. The distribuon of comprehensive rst aid kits further underscored her dedicaon to addressing immediate medical needs. Notably, her support transcended district boundaries as she also extended assistance to vicms in another district, embodying true altruism and compassionate leadership. Manguerra has entered her third and nal consecuve term in Pasay City’s council, but that doesn’t hinder her in her quest to reach out to more people. Coming from a family of policians that traces its public service roots back to the early 1900’s, Manguerra’s polical savvy comes out naturally. “Serving is in our blood. My great, great grandfather served as mayor of Sta. Rosa, Laguna from 1902 to 1904. My other grandfather became OIC-Mayor of Cebu City aer the war. Right now, I have cousins in public service in Sta. Rosa, Dumaguete, and Lipa.” “When I entered polics, I knew what I was here for: to serve the people.” Looking ahead, Manguerra will aim for a congressional seat in 2025 under the party-list system. To her, an elevated role would signify an extended assistance that could encompass a larger populace, not only within Pasay but throughout the enre naon. “From my upbringing, I’ve consistently held deep admiraon for our farmers, recognizing them as the backbone of our economy. Their pivotal role extends beyond mere producvity; they are responsible for nourishing every Filipino household. Despite boasng exceponal agricultural experse, it’s disheartening to observe the gradual societal neglect that these world-class farmers have endured over me.” Manguerra has been busy in helping farmers from all over the country with her newly-founded group, the I-UNLAD Foundaon. Her goal is to make the Philippines one of the top rice exporters in the region once more. “I dream that someday, people in the USA, Canada, other parts of the world, will be eang rice that came from Filipino farmers. We want to bring back the years of Masagana 99 by former President Ferdinand Marcos when we were one of the top producers of rice in Asia.” The aspiring legislator has partnered with the private sector in aiding farmers with cheaper but more eecve ferlizers. Manguerra claims that her program has since cut the cost of ferlizer for farmers from P30,000, down to P3,750 per hectare. “Lower ferlizer costs for farmers would mean more money to invest in other things such as in educaon for their children, or in further scaling up their producon. This way, we can upli them individually through transforming the agriculture sector into a more ecient and producve one.” “We have also launched livelihood assistance programs to dierent cies all over the Philippines, and I hope that people will see that Wowee Manguerra may be small in stature, but her heart is big in helping others.” Manguerra could have stayed in Pasay and rested on her laurels already. But her desire to serve keeps on bringing her back to the people. “I will not stop; I will never say no. I will not choose who I will help. As long as someone needs me, Wowee Manguerra is there, ready to help, no maer what.”WHAT’S NEXT?Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year116 Manguerra has since built her employees their dream houses. She also helped them nance their own cars. But most of all, she has taught them how to manage their nances, to save up, and to invest. “My mother would quip, ‘I only have two hands, one le and one right, but I married the whole city of Pasay and more.” To date, Manguerra has launched numerous programs for her constuents such as medical missions, laboratory tesng, deep well projects, livelihood assistance and cash assistance – most of the funding from her own businesses. When asked if she’s scared that her money would run out someday, Manguerra is steadfast in her faith in God. “Everything we do, all that is according to God’s instrucons. As long as we have faith, I know He would not let that happen to us, He would not let that happen to Pasay.”
NATION BUILDERSThis was the campaign slogan that catapulted this reluctant and unassuming businessman into public service when he became a Municipal Councilor in the town of Angono in 2022. With no relaves in polics, this neophyte polician surprised many when he garnered more than 21,000 votes – enough for a council seat in Angono, a town best known for its rich history and arts just a stone’s throw away from Metro Manila. For Agusn Canlas, beer-known to his constuents as “Konsi Dodie,” he did not even dream of entering the world of polics but it is what it is: he is determined to serve his people to the best of his abilies. “Being a polician wasn’t really in my mind. My only dream was to make life beer for my family, that’s all.” Councilor Canlas wasn’t even originally from the town of Angono. Born in what is now Tarlac City in 1967, he grew up moving from one place to another in search of beer opportunies and a decent livelihood. His story is undeniably a rags-to-riches one. Born to a father who works as a welder and a stay-at-home mom, Dodie had a challenging childhood. Fih among ten siblings, they had to take turns in enrolling for school. “Aral muna ‘yung tatlo, gil muna ‘yung dalawa.” Their family’s search for a beer life brought them to dierent places. From Tarlac, they moved to Olongapo City in his earlier years, then to Zambales province during his teens. To help their parents, Dodie and his siblings tended to a farm where they planted bananas, sweet potatoes, and vegetables and raised pigs, chickens, and goats.HON. AGUSTIN B. CANLASCOUNCILOR, MUNICIPALITY OF ANGONO, RIZAL“SI DODIE CANLAS, MAGSESERBISYO, HINDI MAGBEBENEPISYO.”117AWARDED HONORARYCOUNCILOROF THE YEAR
Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year118 Dodie, along with his siblings, eventually earned a scholarship from the company where his father worked. He knew the value of educaon but reality oen got in the way of his academics. “I was excelling in Mathemacs during my elementary years. However, most of the lessons I learned was from outside the classroom. Hardships in life was what taught us to be hardworking and determined.” Despite all the adversies, Councilor Canlas holds no regrets in life. For him, the tough realies when he was young served as his movaon in life. “I learned a lot from my childhood. Discipline, waking up at dawn, looking for work, fullling our obligaons. All those traits, I sll put to use today and that enabled me to stand up on my own feet.” Growing up, Dodie lived simply. He did play ball during high school but in worn shoes and old gears. “When I was young, I really wanted to have nice stu but deep inside, we knew that our parents could not provide that. We really had to make do with old and taered shoes that we used for several years.” “Seeing my friends who were able to change their lives for the beer was what inspired me. I used to tell myself that I wanted to be just like them.”“We will wake up at five in the morning to do tasks in the farm. We’re not like the other kids who were free to play. After school, we go back to work. That’s what molded us into what we are today.” - Councilor Dodie Canlas
Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year119 During college, he juggled his studies and part-me jobs to be able to pay the bills. He worked odd jobs unl nally, he was able to earn his management degree. But his dreams did not come true immediately right aer college – yet. “I was an ordinary employee at rst, earning barely enough from paycheck to paycheck. There are mes that I borrow y pesos from my neighbors just for fare. As for my lunch, nothing.” Despite the challenges, Coun. Canlas soldiered on. “I nished a vocaonal course in RAC later on. That became my cket to a beer life as I was able to nd an opportunity in Angono to start a junk shop or MRF.” The edgling businessman, against all odds, grew this junk shop year aer year. In two years, he was able to earn his rst million. “When I started to earn well, that did not stop me from wanng to dream for more. I put up my junk shop in 1996, then built a hardware in 2000, and my construcon business by 2004.” “That’s when I knew that I nally had it all: my childhood dream of owning a construcon rm, and more. “I never actually dreamed of entering polics. All I wanted is to help my community but apparently, I could help more people if I have a posion in the town council.” As a new face in the town’s polics, Dodie provided fresh perspecves on how to run projects that will truly benet his constuents. “I always used to tell people to choose the right people to lead them, not just someone who knows them during the campaign period, someone who hands them spare change for their votes. And true enough, when Dodie won a seat in the town council, he did not waste me in walking his talk. “When I was sll campaigning, I knew that it was the senior cizens who need my help the most. That’s why when I got elected, I launched a program that supported them monthly. In a span of a year, Coun. Canlas became a polarizing gure in Angono. His tough stance on peace and order has earned him praises – as well as detractors – among the people. “Growing up, I knew what it takes for someone to change one’s life for the beer – and I believe that it is discipline. In our eorts to maintain peace and order in our community, I became known as someone who is strict and cannot be bent. People would say that I could lose votes because of that, but I don’t care. All I care about is providing my people with a peaceful and orderly Angono.”“Everything I do, it’s from my own money. My salary, I use all of it, and add even more from my personal funds, to be able to help my people” - Councilor Dodie Canlas
My plan is to empower our farmers especially those from the upland areas, support them from planng all the way to harvest and give them means to sell their produce. Back when he was sll a private cizen, Dodie always had given scholarships to students who are in need, and now that he is a public servant, he wants to help more. “We will look for kids who has potenal and who badly needs support. Gone are the days those scholarships are given according to palakasan, we will x that and help those who really are deserving.” In all the years that he has helped upli his community, Coun. Canlas nanced his projects such as medical missions, infrastructure programs, and basic services, from his own pocket. The humble councilman, admits that even now that he is a public servant, he sll uses his own money to help people. One of the biggest projects he has undertaken was providing a community, 2,500 families in all, their own source of water. He signed a memorandum of agreement with a leading water concessionaire to put up water meters in the neighborhood, just one example of how Dodie has brought change to the lives of the people of Angono. “Truth be told, as a public servant, I lose money. People are lining up for help that even my salary and budget could not cover everything.” “My wife was really supporve of my advocacies and iniaves. She knew that this is what I wanted and now that we are blessed with successful businesses, we knew that the me has come to help others as well.” A FAMILY MAN A GOOD FATHER AND A LOVING HUSBAND and most of all an HONEST PUBLIC SERVANT.Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year120“Marami pa kayong dapat asahan sa isang Dodie Canlas. Kapa ko ang kahirapan, alam ko kung bakit sila naghihirap, alam ko kung bakit sila pumipila para sa karampot na tulong. Nadirito si Dodie Canlas para magserbisyo, at hindi para magbenepisyo.” - Councilor Dodie Canlas
NATION BUILDERSTo become the benchmark in dynamic and youthful governance is Coun. Niña Perez’s goal. She is known in her town as Ka-Unlad Niña Perez (KAsama ninyo pag-UNLAD)who focuses on fullling the advocacy of Nakatutok sa Pag-Unlad ng Kabataan at Kabuhayan. Prior to being elected, Ka-Unlad Niña Perez nished her Bachelor of Arts in Polical Economy from the University of Asia and the Pacic in 2017, and completed her Master of Arts degree in Polical Science major in Applied Polics from the American University Washington, D.C., U.S.A. in 2019. She has also completed various short courses and seminars such as: • University of Oxford Blavatnik School of Government“Evidence in Public Policy” December 2022 Center for Local and Regional Governance Excellence in Local Legislaon”• University of the Philippines | June 6-11, 2022“Great Leadership: Developing Praccal Leadership Skills”• New York University | September 27-29, 2021“Public Policy Analysis”• London School of Economics and Polical Science | July - October 2020“Running for Oce”• American University | March 23-29, 2019“Workshop on Ethics and Lobbying”• American University | February 2-9, 2019“Campaign Management Instute”• American University | January 2-13, 2019“Communicaons Excellence”AWARDED HONORARYHON. MARIE NIÑA NIKKIE PEREZCOUNCILOR, MUNICIPALITY OF BUSTOS, BULACAN121COUNCILOROF THE YEAR
• University of California Berkeley | August 9-10, 2018“LEAP Leadership Seminar”• LEAP Foundaon, University of Los Angeles California | July 22-28, 2018“Foreign Policy and Diplomacy”• Foreign Service Instute Employees Associaon Manila | July 23, 2016“Internaonal Relaons 101”• Foreign Service Instute Employees Associaon Manila | July 16, 2016Ka-Unlad Niña Perez was elected as the rst councilor of Bustos, Bulacan during the 2022 Naonal and Local Elecons. She is currently serving as the Assistant Majority Floor Leader of the 11th Sangguniang of Bustos with chairmanships and vice chairmanships in the following commiees:Chairperson:• Commiee on Educaon• Commiee on Livelihood and Employment• Commiee on Arts, Culture and Tourism Vice Chairperson:• Commiee on Trade and Industry• Commiee on Rules, Privileges, Civil Service and Good Governance• Commiee on Budget, Appropriaons, Taxaon,Ways and Means• Commiee on Gender, Women and Family Being the youngest member of the 11th Sangguniang Bayan of Bustos, Ka-Unlad Niña Perez strives to be the voice of the youth, teachers, entrepreneurs, and workers in Bustos, Bulacan. In just one year of service, Ka-Unlad Niña Perez has successfully principally-authored eight (8) Ordinances and co-authored one (1) Ordinance and (10) ten Resoluons namely: Principally-authored Ordinances:• Municipal Ordinance No. 2022-09 - “Galing Guro Bustosenyo Day” This is the rst ever teacher’s day where public and private teachers, rered teachers and child development workers shall be recognized for all their hard work and dedicaon in preparing and educang the youth for a bright future.• Municipal Ordinance No. 2022-14 - “Generang Real Opportunies and Work (G.R.O.W) Ordinance A legislaon that seeks to empower the Public Employment Service Oce bymandang that all job vacancies within Bustos, Bulacan shall be posted in the Bustos Municipal Hall as well as online plaorms such as Facebook.Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year122
Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year123 An ordinance that mandates that companies, which employ ten (10) or more must be composed of seventy (70%) rank and le Bustosenyo workers.• Municipal Ordinance No. 2023-06 - “Strawless Saturday” A legislaon that seeks to promote environmental preservaon by requiring that all business establishments operang within the Municipality of Bustos shall not use any straw during Saturdays.• Municipal Ordinance No. 2022-19 - “Bustos Historical Panel”An ordinance that created a panel composed of various resource persons from various industries of tourism, educaon, and business to create a simple history manual of Bustos that can be used as one of the references in teaching students.• Municipal Ordinance No. 2023-03 - “Ligtas na Pagbubuns”A legislaon that seeks to ban home birth within the municipality of Bustos, pursuant to exisng Department of Health administrave orders to ensure the safety of mother and child.• Municipal Ordinance No. 2023-05 - Amending paragraph 22 of secon 2 of municipal ordinance no. 2019-15 also known as kautusan sa pangangalaga ng mga yamang pangkalinangan ng Bustos An ordinance that seeks to convert the Bustos Tennis Court to a Senior Cizen’s Park, where all senior cizens can freely exercise and hold various acvies for the development of their health and overall welfare. Co-authored ordinance:Municipal Ordinance No. 2023-13 - Bustos Youth Welfare and Development Code A comprehensive piece of legislaon that contains all the rights, dues, and roles of the youth in Bustos to contribute to naon-building and empowerment.Principally-authored Resoluons:• Kapasiyahan No. 2022-73 - Pagkilala kay Ginoong Carlito G. Galvez Jr. (Chief Implementer of the Philippines’ Declared Naonal Policy Against COVID-19) • Kapasiyahan Blg. 2022-96 - Recognizing all the hard work, sacrices and dedicaon of Bustosenyo World War II Veterans• Kapasiyahan Blg 2022-120 - Pagkilala kay Ginoong Jerey S. Eligio (2nd Placer Singkaban Fesval, Province of Bulacan)• Kapasiyahan Blg 2022-123 - Kabataang Bustosenyo Protektado Dropbox (An-Bullying)• Kapasiyahan Blg. 2023-026 - Requesng the Department of Public Works and Highways to put Pedestrian Lanes on Schools, Churches and Public Markets• Kapasiyahan Blg. 2023-52 - Recognizing the Minasa Singing Harmony as the ocial choir of the Municipality of Bustos• Kapasiyahan Blg. 2023-64 - Requesng to business-owners operang within the Municipality of Bustos to hire Persons with Disability and Special Educaon Graduates• Kapasiyahan Blg. 2023-65 - Encouraging that all business-establishments play the Minasa Fesval Themesong during the one week celebraon• Kapasiyahan Blg. 2023-66 - Celebrang the 80th of the Bulacan Military Area• Kapasiyahan Blg. 2023-78 - Celebrang the 50th Anniversary of Torch of Freedom Sll on her rst term, Ka-Unlad Niña Perez was elected by young legislators from her province to lead the Naonal Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL) Bulacan chapter composed of Vice Governors, Board Members, Vice Mayors, Councilors aged forty years old (40) and below who are all geared toward working for eecve and dynamic governance. Ka-Unlad Niña Perez’s passion for public service was also recognized internaonally when she won the Youth Achievement Award in Public Service by AmerAsia awards in Los Angeles, California. With the passion to elevate the standards of good governance, aside from her legislave work, she is also spearheading various programs for Bustosenyos mainly focusing on livelihood, educaon and tourism.
On Livelihood:For Ka-Unlad Niña Perez, collaboraon with various groups is key to ensuring sustainable programs that would benet all Bustosenyos. She partnered with the VILLAR SIPAG foundaon to provide sh-processing training for the people of Bustos.Likewise, she has engaged with the Philippine Red Cross to conduct basic emergency response training for barangay volunteers and the youth, tapped the Technical Educaon and Skills Development Authority livelihood training for various sectors such as women, alternave learning system students, and parent-teacher’s associaons. She also values all the hard work of tricycle drivers through providing them a free haircut program. Moreover, Ka-Unlad Niña Perez oered one bicycle and ve arnis scks to all fourteen (14) barangays of Bustos to assist with peace and order, because she believes that having a safe environment is essenal in aracng investors to conduct business in Bustos. On her birthday, she has awarded three Negosyo Packages of ihaw-ihaw and sh ball carts to three unemployed Bustosenyos to give them a sustainable means of providing for their family.On Educaon:Ka-Unlad Niña Perez believes that educaon should be a right instead of a privilege. She implements her own educaonal scholarship assistance program derived from her monthly salary to support twenty students per year. Moreover, she looks high on the intense dedicaon and passion of all teachers by preparing the youth for a bright and sustainable future, which is why her landmark and pioneer legislaon was to have a Galing Guro Bustosenyo day, kicking-o the Naonal Teachers’ Month every September 5 to thank all the educators for their reless work in honing the skills and developing the moral values of the youth. Likewise, she envisions a bully-free environment and sought the support of all public and private schools to implement the Kabataan Bustosenyo Protektado Dropbox to provide a safe space for students to voice out their bullying problems and protect their mental health. Ka-Unlad Niña Perez has also provided assistance to all public and private schools by donang chalks that teachers can use to lessen the learning instuon’s operaonal costs. Ka-Unlad Niña Perez also authored a resoluon recognizing the ocial choir of Bustos, Bulacan, which is MinasaSinging Harmony, composed of young singers from the fourteen barangays of the town who lead the Minasa Fesval celebraon every January. In balancing history and current mes, Ka-Unlad Niña Perez has sponsored an ordinance that would convert the Bustos Tennis Court to a beer use of a Senior Cizen’s Park for the benet and safety of all the elderly. Ka-Unlad Niña Perez has always believed that life is a non-stop learning process, which is why to further develop her skills and knowledge as a legislator and beer serve her constuents, she is currently enrolled as a rst year law student at San Sebasan Recoletos College of Law in Manila. Ka-Unlad Niña Perez is a young legislator full of big dreams with concrete acon in fullling her advocacy Nakatutok sa Pag-Unlad ng Kabataan at Kabuhayan in serving the people of Bustos, as well as her fellow public servants in the NMYL Bulacan chapter.On Tourism:The arts, culture and tourism of Bustos, Bulacan must be uplied, promoted, and safeguarded for the world to see according to Ka-Unlad Niña Perez. The town of Bustos, Bulacan is home to various heroes during the World War II such as the renowned public servant and military man, Gen. Alejo Santos, home to a few Spanish-inspired houses and the famous Minasa, an arrow-root cookie made from cassava our that showcases the vibrant history of the town. Awarded Honorary Councilor of the Year124
NATION BUILDERSU nlike most policians today, East Rembo Brgy. Capt. Thelma Parayno Ramirez has no direct familial roots in polics. She didn’t inherit a legacy of governance from a parent or a husband. She doesn’t even have any direct relaves working in government. What she has is a willingness to serve her constuents like a mother who worries for her children’s welfare. She may be stern at mes but as the people of East Rembo will aest, Kapitana Thelma cares. Surprisingly, it was her son, Roman Frederick, who rst entered polics by running and winning as the Sangunian ng Kabataan chairman in their town. Though she was against it at rst, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez knew how hard it was to not heed the call of those in need. As a founding member of East Rembo Women’s Associaon, Inc. (ERWAI) in 1997, she and similar-minded friends were able to help women and children within their barangay via feeding programs and similar endeavors. It was her simple way to give back to their barangay and beyond. But when the me came and her son took a higher posion by running in the elecons as a kagawad, she was constantly reminding Roman that polics is not a career for raising a family but a career of public service. But because they were well-liked in East Rembo, the people convinced Ramirez to run as kagawad, a posion she won easily in 2013. A long-me resident of East Rembo, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez graduated from the University of the East with a degree in Banking and Finance. Along with her arst husband, Wilfredo “Fred” Ramirez, they successfully launched several businesses which allowed them to provide a good life for their three sons.AN UNLIKELY STARTAWARDED HONORARYBARANGAY CAPTAINOF THE YEARHON. THELMA P. RAMIREZBARANGAY CAPTAIN, BARANGAY EAST REMBO, MAKATI CITY125
Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year126 And as a kagawad in East Rembo, she was a part of three important commiees, Health & Sanitaon, Social Services, and Livelihood. It was a posion that really opened her eyes to the real needs of the people and movated her to run for a higher posion that would enable her to help more people. In 2018, she ran and won the posion of barangay captain of East Rembo. As such, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez embarked on a mission of modernizing her town by building infrastructure that was crucial to the residents of East Rembo. She built a new building, which was donated by Congressman Luis Campos through DPWH, that would enable them to expand their operaons beyond their humble barangay hall. East Rembo also now has an LED billboard installed in a strategic part of town which enables them to have more eecve and widespread informaon campaigns. By adding the adjacent building as well as installing crucial technology such as CCTV cameras, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez was able to ensure that the cizens would have fewer worries all throughout the day and night. In fact, in her rst year, East Rembo was recognized by the Regional Disaster Risk Reducon Management Council as one of the compliant towns that “advocate and implement rights-based, gender-responsive, and inclusive disaster risk reducon” in the DRRM Awards (High-Risk Category), proving that she was on the right path even in 2018. The Barangay Council For The Protecon ofChildren also awarded East Rembo 3-Stars in 2019 and 4-Stars in 2022 as one of the most child-friendly barangays in the Philippines, connuing Ramirez’s advocacy of protecng the children in her community.MODERNIZATION OF EAST REMBO
Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year127 As another measure towards public safety, she also implemented a Drug-Free Workplace Policy in East Rembo, which was cered by the Maka An-Drug Abuse Council in 2020. Under this policy, any employees of the barangay who get caught using illegal substances will immediately be terminated but will be given a chance to enter a rehabilitaon program which if they are able to pass will make them eligible to apply for employment in the barangay again. Of the handful of employees caught in the rst years, all have passed the program and are back on track to serve East Rembo. Under Brgy. Capt. Ramirez’s leadership, East Rembo has been drug-cleared since 2020 and the barangay has also received commendaons from instuons such as the Department of Interior and Local Government and the Maka City Police Staon. In 2019, however, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez was dealt a very big challenge in just her second year of oce, a worldwide pandemic. This was a true test of strength, endurance, and leadership, as the enre world was frozen at some point in me, waing for news of relief or vaccinaon. Not wanng to abandon her constuents, she got to work, whether at her home or at the barangay hall to ensure that order was maintained within East Rembo. And with the help of her trusted subordinates, she was able to provide valuable aid to the town even sustaining a COVID pantry that was able to be sustained for over a month during a very dire me. She recalled a very memorable moment during this me when she was on calls with a resident whose wife caught COVID but had been rejected by so many hospitals throughout the day. So from 6 pm unl 9 am of the following day, she tried everything in her power just to assist the couple which eventually found refuge in Ospital ng Maka by 10 am. And while it was already a challenge in itself, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez also had COVID during this me so it was even more impressive how she was able to pull o this feat which was just one of many instances throughout those days.SAFE AND DRUG-CLEAREDPUBLIC SERVICE PAST 5 PM
Though most barangay captains in the country merely adopt the direcves provided by the local government heads or the mayors, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez believes that aside from following the example of her superior, she should also look towards the future by thinking of bigger ways in which she can adopt the policies set out by the mayor. In East Rembo’s case, following the green path set by the city means enforcing strict rules when it comes to segregang garbage as well as planning for the future through technological advancements that can benet the barangay in many ways. Since 2019, East Rembo has been considered one of the model barangays by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, awarding it as one of the Cleanest and Greenest LGUs in the country. In 2023, the Department of Environmental Services also awarded East Rembo for their eorts in Clean & Green Solid Waste Management and for its best pracces when it comes to Environmental and Climate Change Iniaves. However, Brgy Capt. Ramirez only sees this as the start of making East Rembo eco–friendly. She’s eyeing the use of solar panels for crucial parts of the barangay in order to reduce the carbon footprint of the town as well as reduce her oce’s monthly spending. Furthermore, The barangay urges every household to grow their own vegetable crops. As a Barangay Pracce, residents are encouraged to take their plasc waste to East Rembo’s Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), and it will be traded for vegetables. The collected plasc waste will be shredded and mixed with cement to produce eco bricks hollow blocks, this pracce tremendously helps the environment as well as its cizens. And just to add another feather to her cap, the Commission on Audit (COA) in 2023 awarded her oce with a ZERO Noce of Disallowance in the First and Second Quarter of 2023. It was the rst me in the history of East Rembo that the barangay had been given such an honor which proved that the scal management under Brgy. Capt. Ramirez was all above board and the East Rembo residents could rest assured that their taxes were being used for their benet and no one else. What lies ahead in the near future is Brgy. Captain Ramirez’s run towards reelecon. She believes that her work is far from done aer laying down the foundaon for what could be East Rembo’s path toward modernizaon. And while only me will tell what the future brings, for the past 5 years or so, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez has turned her humble barangay into a safe place for women and children and now, more than ever, she has proven that Thelma truly cares.Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year128AN ECOLOGICAL REVOLUTIONTAPAT AT RESPONSABLENG PAGLILINGKOD
NATION BUILDERSI am CIRILO ARDEZA TENORIO, 60 years old, residing in Barangay Sta. Cruz Anpolo City. Currently, serving as the Barangay Captain. In 2019, I started working in service as the leader of Sta Cruz, I was sll familiarizing the work when unfortunately, COVID-19 Pandemic strikes in 2020. It was a me where most of us does not go to work, the school usual classes stop and changes, our kids and teenagers cannot play or gather outside, People are afraid to leave their houses. It was a moment of fear because of the LOCKDOWN. Checkpoints are everywhere. It was a dicult task and responsibility for me yet, we immediately plan and organized comprehensive strategies in accordance with the Naonal government direcves. The Barangay focuses on realigning the budget and resources in response to solving immediate issues like the COVID pandemic. The barangay put emphasis on mobilizing the crowd during lockdown, we have provided informaon campaigns about the how’s and what’s of COVID and we have purchased goods and items for the needy, we have provided AYUDA and coordinates connuously with the DOH , PNP and other agencies to properly implement our programs like securing of permits to travel, providing health cercates, face mask, PPE and disinfecon to high risk areas, working with contact tracing up unl the provision of vaccines among our residents including the rst shots of vaccines to providing boosters for all. It was a great and unforeseen challenge that test my rst year of service but with the help of the Barangay Council, we have overcome it. HON. CIRILO “BEBOT” A. TENORIOPUNONG BARANGAY, BARANGAY STA. CRUZ, ANTIPOLO CITY129AWARDED HONORARYBARANGAY CAPTAINOF THE YEAR
In 2022, it was a great news that the spread of COVID-19 is decreasing already. At this moment, the barangay started on fullling the projects and programs that was le behind because of the crisis of the pandemic. Some of it was providing streetlights through powered Solar lights. It was a big help to our residents. In resolving concerns on Solid Waste Management, we have ulized three trucks that was used to collect garbage regularly. One of the goals of the barangay is also to have a sustainable community where we encourage our residents to plant produce in their vacant lots and through Programang HAPAG where we have been awarded for the past years now. We have urge and promote the idea of urban planng I houses so they can ulize their vacant lots in plang vegetables or produce. Our service is connually improving and doing our best, OUR BDRRMO was also recognized in response to calamity and disaster which is immediate and ecient. Our ambulance is consistent in providing services as well as responding to re incidents. The evacuaon centers are also prepared in case there will be ashoods and landslides. Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year130
We are also pung our concerns in the aspect of health, we have doctors, nurses and denst who gives free consultaon and services to our residents. Thousand of our residents beneted from our health services. Yearly, we conduct medical services like Operaon Tuli, Katarata, X-ray providing vaccines for the babies and toddlers and other medical services. Moreover, in the aspect of Peace and Order, we have pledged our commitment in sustaining the peace and order in our community. The cases of killing and crimes drops. The concern of drug abused decreases and our community was declared DRUG CLEARED. We have connuous programs to stop and ght against drug abused. We have partnered with PNP and PDEA to stop Drug abused and to arrest those who are proven to be “users and pushers” of this harmful substance. We are working our partnerships well to help our residents who are vicms of drug abused to have a normal life again through rehabilitaon programs. Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year131
We never neglect our resident’s social posion since we also give emphasis on the roles of women, youth and our senior cizens in our community. We have prepared programs and events for them so they can acvely parcipate in promong their respecve programs ad concerns. Our roads is a mechanism to promote the development of our barangay, thus, we kept it clean and free from obstrucon through road clearing operaon with the help our local government. We have greatly valued the educaon of our learners by giving educaonal assistance and providing scholarships to deserving and diligent learners of our barangay. The peace and order of our Barangay is established and this year, 2023, we will have a free and democrac elecon. All those who wanted to serve and be a candidate are welcome to be part of the candidacy without worrying for their security. I am reassuring that the elecon is what the people of this community wants. I am hoping that what I have contributed in the community will sll progress and be sustained in the coming years to come. Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year132
NATION BUILDERSA Very Figure from the humble Village of Barangay San Antonio, Maka City, Restuto E. Cajes, known fondly as “Resty” by all his friends, Colleagues, and constuents, had a humble Beginning as if it’s a story from a book, He Had Janitorial Work as a College student to support himself in back in 1988 at the University of Bohol while taking an Accounng Major. He kept persevering unl in 1994, he began his career in Public Service in When hired as a coordinator of Maka Acon Center assigned on the assistance of people concerning the Maka Yellow Cards (Free Health Care). Surprisingly, it was her son, Roman Frederick, who rst entered polics by running and winning as the Sangunian ng Kabataan chairman in their town. Though she was against it at rst, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez knew how hard it was to not heed the call of those in need. As a founding member of East Rembo Women’s Associaon, Inc. (ERWAI) in 1997, she and similar-minded friends were able to help women and children within their barangay via feeding programs and similar endeavors. It was her simple way to give back to their barangay and beyond. But when the me came and her son took a higher posion by running in the elecons as a kagawad, she was constantly reminding Roman that polics is not a career for raising a family but a career of public service. But because they were well-liked in East Rembo, the people convinced Ramirez to run as kagawad, a posion she won easily in 2013. AWARDED HONORARYBARANGAY CAPTAINOF THE YEARHON. RESTITUTO E. CAJESBARANGAY CAPTAIN, BARANGAY SAN ANTONIO VILLAGE, MAKATI CITY133
Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year134 Neighborhood Associaons were founded through the eorts of him and his Kagawad, for years, even aer working under a new Kagawad, he organized projects to reach more people, he organized the house numbers and conducted census and House to House proling that later laid a foundaon on the upcoming acvies of the Barangay in the future, all of these interacons, together with his humorous, Kindhearted and very Approachable personality connue leaving a mark to the hearts of people simply just by being a hardworking employee and being sincere to his work. He chats with them and listens to them, and know each household by heart throughout the Barangay. Lile did he know at the me that these small talks will have a very huge impact in the in the upcoming elecon. Because aer working for almost 10 years as an employee, Resty Cajes, with no fortune, no nancer of any sort, and no polical backings, decided to run for Kagawad. Not aiming high, he did things simple and he just laid out plaorms during the campaign, it’s just as if he sll an employee of the Barangay.
Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year135 But his humility, his sincerity, and the impression that he le from the past years catapulted him to thee rst place Kagawad for 2 terms, with his reputaon, he was assigned on the commiee of Social Services for his rst term and he was able to connue at what he is good at, which is being friendly and being Helpful. The same sincerity helped him when nally decided to run for the Posion of Barangay Chairman, and he won for 2 consecuve terms.As a Barangay Kagawad, under the commiee of Social Services, he made sure that the Barangay Cizen will get the benets they deserve, he took care and assisted people for their Yellow Cards, Phil health Card and Senior Cards, as he informed people on related maers. Although it is a single commiee, it was hard at the me given that technology wasn’t as present as it is now, and given that health benet cards it was fairly new to people at the me. PWD and Senior Cizens need assistance mostly, making them the focus of Resty Cajes, even making the Kagawad reach out to them, going house to house and such. On his second term, under the Livelihood Commiee, he focused on Implementaon of trainings that involves basic livelihood acvies such as Cooking, Baking and planng, Cooking involves the hands-on training with updated database, and very skilled trainers, Baking was heavily sought out by mothers and Grandmothers providing them with recipe and tools. Surprisingly, planng was chosen by men of all ages. some of it were also projects that involved Dancing and other fun acvies. As Barangay Chairman, his focus is achieving long term goals and focusing on performance of each commiee of the Barangay, he ulized the Barangay Budget in ways that can help people nancially and help them be producve. stay at home mothers were hired as “Nanay Patrollers” patrolling at Aer school Hours to prevent accidents and other bad things at those few hours. MASA MASID project-based employees are another example where a simple cizen is authorized to report if something goes wrong inside the barangay to keep peace and make trouble makers weary of the barangay’s presence on every corner of the streets.
Barangay San Antonio was declared and Cered Drug-Free by PDEA in 2022 under Barangay Chairman Resty Cajes, they focused heavily on intelligence reports before taking acon carefully, Coordinaon and Proper reports dealing with the subject were submied properly in coordinaon with the police department. -Was 2nd place in best performing Barangay An-Drug Abuse Council in 2022, as in general, drug related acvies were heavily focused on in terms of preparaon and being persistent. Under BADAC care rehabilitang were given dues and responsibilies for them to be producve and be involved and let them focus on improving themselves as a distracon to illegal drugs and other Vices. Was considered the most supporve barangay for the community-based rehabilitaon program for (CBRP) for the year 2021, the BADAC care program is a very reliable program for the recovery of the drug abuse vicms. Proper reports, and careful execuon was observed throughout the duraon of the BADAC rehabilitaon program for each individual, the Drug Abuse Vicms were also invited in church acvies to heal them spiritually. -Was Best in Peace and order category indicators. The Bantay Bayan with the coordinaon with the police, was improved, Seminar and Trainings were Endorsed even more oen to be aended by our acve personnel, capacity enhancements were approved and implemented. Barangay with Most Improved Creek, (Gawad Taga-Ilog 2023) the creek under his term was heavily focused, materials and essenal personnel were provided to start the long-term goal. The creek was monitored and given priority for the year, the improvements all throughout the year was steady and was crowned as the “most improved estero” in the naonal compeon. 2018 and 2019 awarded as best Lupon Tagapamayapa, and was awarded three hundred thousand Pesos PHP. The lupong tagapamayapa, under the direcon of Barangay Chairman Resty Cajes adapted an approach similar to his roots, which is Kind and Caring. Cases were seled with proper procedures and provided with proper reports. There were also notable worth menoning where Barangay San Antonio aained 3rd Place in 2016 and 4th place in 2016 as the cleanest Barangay. And right now, Barangay are also nominated for 2023 recognion as Clean and Green projects are also heavily supported and encouraged by the Chairman Resty Cajes through the help of Department of Environmental Services (DES). They provide soil and other essenal materials like seeds to help encourage and support greening projects inside Barangay San Antonio Maka. Even with all these awards and recognion received by the Barangay under the Direcon and guidance of Restuto E. Cajes, he does not plan to stop and want to connue to improve the performance of the commiee in the Barangay, Mistakes that were made are corrected, planning are done more carefully as me goes by and he connue to appoint more and more qualied personnel fore the barangay services. There are other commiee that need improvements, and with his remaining me in the Barangay, he will focus on those subject departments. He will try to get reward as presgious as the Drug Clear Recognion cered by the DILG. Resty Cajes with His Humble Roots carried on never changing who he was when was only starng out as a public servant. From being a humble coordinator to becoming a prominent gure of Barangay Chairman, one of the things that never changed in him is his Humility. On some other mes it may not be good that he is not inmidang at all, but most of the me, his very approachable aura helps people more than it doesn’t. as of the moment, right now he is planning to run for his 3rd term. And bring a proper closure to all his plans all throughout his me as the barangay chairman of barangay san Antonio Maka. He will connue to set long term goals where it will worth the eort in the end. The people who supported him since early 2000 will sure sll support him as his good and sincere deed were etched in their hearts and minds already. With all these things, the biggest thing about Barangay Chairman Restuto E. Cajes is his ability to inspire people, he proves that with sheer determinaon and kind and sincere heart, you can become someone that people will follow. You will become someone that people will remember for all their life just by showing them kindness and Sincerity. We don’t know exactly how many people he helped through the free health care cards he assisted them, but from his long years in the public service, we can conclude that these are the same people that brought him to his seat as a number one Kagawad and Barangay Chairman that made history in Barangay San Antonio Maka.Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year136
NATION BUILDERSS tepping out of the shadows of her husband, Ms. Rizza Tesalona-Guiang carved her own path, leading her humble barangay into a model other LGUs can follow. A simple housewife before she entered polics, she learned the ropes of public service from her husband who became the leader of their barangay, before taking up a bigger role in a higher government posion. What she lacked in experience, she made up with her big heart for public service as she competently and resourcefully fullled her role as Punong Batangay and LnB President of Barangay Panay in the relavely quiet corner of Apayao province, the town of Sta. Marcela. Slowly but surely Rising to the posion via the overwhelming support of her barangay in 2018, when she was elected as Punong Barangay unopposed, Ms. Tesalona-Guiang admits that she had to take things slow as she acclimazes to her new role. She discovered that leading a community and raising a family have many similaries than what one would think. As a mother, she knows what her people needs and how to grant them. Ms. Tesalona-Guiang started with the foundaons. To be able to eciently serve her barangay, she focused rst on improving her oce’s managerial strategies. HON. RIZZA TESALONA GUIANGPUNONG BARANGAY, BARANGAY PANAYLNB PRESIDENT, GOVERNMENT OF SANTA MARCELA, APAYAO137AWARDED HONORARYBARANGAY CAPTAINOF THE YEAR
With emphasis on “Good Governance,” this paved the way to more projects even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Inclusion and collaboraon Adming her limited experience in public service, she did not shy away from learning from others. She did not let her being a newcomer make her an outsider. She sought advice and guidance from higher government agencies, especially from the Department of Interior and Local Government or DILG. She then slowly made her way up, giving her humble barangay the representaon, it needs in the municipal level, to the provincial government, and even to the naonal line agencies.Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year138
Her perseverance to learn more and to etch her own fate paid o as she secured developmental projects. The neophyte polician that she is, she understood that her mission is to rst establish her oce’s reputaon and produce eecve and honest leaders. With emphasis on inclusion and collaboraon, she started with formalizing the regular conduct of regular and special sessions so that she can hear the voice of the ordinary people. She also set meengs and consultaons with stakeholders from other sectors and strengthened the foundaons of her oce with the Women’s Welfare Organizaon (WWO), the Farmer’s Organizaon, the Youth Organizaon, and the Indigenous People (IP). Transparent leadership above all to win the condence of her constuency and the respect of her colleagues, she has made it her personal crusade to lead with honesty. From making the nancial status of her barangay transparent to honestly disclosing the fund allocaon and accomplishments, she quickly became known as a leader with a pure heart of service for her kababayans. Despite being a relavely newcomer in the scene, she earned the respect and trust of her counterparts and was elected as President of the Liga ng mga Barangay. There, she made it a point to have an honest and organized Bids and Awards Commiee to be able to provide the social services her barangay needs. Standing up to the Challenges The municipality of Sta. Marcela is situated at the northeastern-most edge of the province, and Barangay Panay is even more remote – one of the most far-ung barangays in their town as a maer of fact – with no roads and bridges to connect most communies. With scarce funding and virtually non-existent infrastructure, leading a barangay like Panay is no easy task. Despite this, Ms. Tesalona-Guiang is unfazed.Awarded Honorary Brgy. Captain of the Year139
“God is above all things and He controls everything,” the lady Punong Barangay would hold on to. As she has now established her reputaon as a competent, trust-worthy, and ecient public servant, she has earned the support of Governor Eleanor Bulut-Begtang and Rep Elias Bulut, Jr. Their support bore fruits such as infrastructure projects. Among these projects are the construcon of a concrete bridge crossing Lawigan creek, the improvement of the mul-purpose gymnasium, the construcon of quaranne checkpoint with restrooms and water supply, the installaon of street lights along barangay roads, the construcon of road wall protecon at Purok 1, and improvement of barangay roads which are now gravel roads between Puroks 3 and 4. In such a short span of me as a public servant, she has proven that honest and ecient public service can be translated to the actual improvement to the lives of her kababayans. Her term also saw the beacaon and regreening of barangay roads with sustainability in mind, the construcon of Child Development Center, Gymnasium (Evacuaon Center), New Bridges and improvement of various community parks, and implementaon of signicant programs that led to the barangay’s peace and order. They successfully bagged the “Lupon Tagapamayapa Incenve Award” Nominee for three (3) consecuve years from 2021 to 2023 and Cered Zero Defacaon (Grade 1 Status) in 2022. Barangay Panay’s collecve eorts was also recognized as they were awarded as the Cleanest and Greenest Barangay, Best Implementer on Solid Waste Management, Best Implementer in Peace and Order Programs as Peaceful Barangay, Best in Sanitaon and Best in Barangay Rabies Program Implementer among all the barangays in Sta. Marcela for four consecuve years from 2020 to 2023. To top it all, Barangay Panay earned the Naonal Level recognion of Seal of Good Local Governance in the Barangay Level in 2021 and the latest LGU “TARNAW” Awards 2023. But more than the awards and recognions, Ms. Tesalona-Guiang’s most fullling achievement is to bring beerment to the people of her barangay. She is the rst Punong Barangay to enact a barangay ordinance to mandate all households to construct sanitary toilets, distribung toilet bowls with the help of the municipal government. They also formulated an ecient solid waste management plan and made advancements in prevenng dengue through “Oplan Taob/Yugyug.” To address unemployment, she has been in coordinaon with dierent government agencies and in the middle of the pandemic, the Barangay was able to distribute relief goods and food packs to every family during the lockdowns, despite their meager funds. She has also put a premium in educaon, throwing support to schools with their programs and projects. Her oce also provided nancial assistance to students for their school supplies and empowered the youth through civic acvies iniated by the Sangguniang Kabataan. Some would dismiss a former housewife when it comes to public service, but Ms. Tesalona-Guiang is a testament that when you have a good heart and a yearning for sincere and honest public service, competency and eciency will follow surely follow.Awarded Honorary Barangay Captain of the Year140
NATION BUILDERSEven during his schooling years, he had been very acve in extra co-curricular events and tasks in school to which made a breakthrough in his public service journey. He started as a good student council ocer, governing all in the University. As an acve and diligent youth, he also engaged in public service in Brgy. Nabitasan starng o as a SK Chairperson. During this me, he made sure that the youth is engaged in acvies and programs of the barangay. He provided acvies and programs which empowers youth because he believes that the youth is the future of the community. Engagement of the youth to religious acvies and programs is also one his main projects. Such become a success wherein it can be seen that the youth of Nabitasan have now been engage to religious acvies more than before. It can be seen that there was indeed a rapid change from illegal acvies to religious acvies. Lastly, his love and care for the environment. It was evident that he has love and care for the environment because of his various projects related to it. The barangay youth garden, community clean-up and many more to name a few. During his me as the youth leader of his barangay, negave feedbacks are nowhere to be found. The people of Nabitasan loved him so much because of his love, hardwork and determinaon for them. AWARDED HONORARYPUBLIC SERVANTOF THE YEARHON. JOHN JESNER PERCE H. PUNSARANPRESIDENT - BARANGAY COUNCILORS LEAGUEOF THE PHILIPPINES ILOILO CITY AND WESTERN VISAYASSANGGUNIANG BARANGAY MEMBER141
Awarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year142 Indeed, Nabitasan found its long-lost treasure.Aer his service was tested and proven, he took the challenge of becoming a Sangguniang Barangay Member. He served as a Sangguniang Barangay Mamber for 15 years. This is almost half of his lifeme. Because of that, he was not just giving Nabitasan a wonderful experience but he made Nabitasan known to Iloilo and to the whole Philippines. Born with natural talent in art, he has been passionate about arstry and creave works. During his school years, he had been honed to come up with outstanding events and acvies in school to which proves his mark today as one of the sought aer creave directors in the City and Province of IloIlo. As a person with unlimited creave juices in his personality, aside from direcng, he had been remarkable in some of the roles in theater, dance dramas, and plays both here local and in naonal. He had authenc contribuons in arts, culture and media both here locally and in provincial places.
He had proven worthy that his amazing talent is something to be proud of. Because of that, young arsc people of City of Iloilo looked up on him as one of the greats and uses as their inspiraon in the pursuit of their dreams in the eld of arts and culture. Now, he’s known to be one of the best judges or crics in the city for various pageants and compeons. His ineable love for culture and arts is truly embarked to the hearts and minds of the Ilonggos. He truly raised the name of Nabitasan and Iloilo City to greater heights. Now, as he is governing the Barangay Councilors League of the Philippines Iloilo City Chapter and the whole Western Visayas, it simply shows that this hardworking man is very responsible, caring and “maka-masa”. He is loved by everyone! He is very much deserving of an appreciaon for his contribuons and eort being a good and trusted public servant.Awarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year143
Awarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year144 This also symbolizes of how great a leader he is. A leader who not only talks the talk, but also walks the talk. As he is very much commied in Public Service for 17 years, to name a few, he is the Chairperson of GUGMA Youth Organizaon of Iloilo City under Congresswoman Jam Jam Baronda. Also, during the pandemic, he took the opportunity and chance to serve as he was the President of the whole Barangay Kagawads of Iloilo City and Region 6. There were remarkable programs that were featured and recognized by Iloilo City. One of which is the “Gulayan sa Nabitasan” where it was hailed Champion as it created an impact on the whole community and in Iloilo City. Indeed, Hon. Punsaran is a public servant, a natural born public servant. He never showed o to the people that he is a good public servant rather, he let them feel it. He let the Ilonggos feel what it is like to be served by a good, hardworking and determined public servant. His passion and love for public service always has a BIG place to the hearts of the Ilonggos especially for Nabitasan. And it does not stop there. He will sll connue to serve the Ilonggos during his lifeme. The call for a beer public service serves as his driving force to connue to help and serve the Ilonggos. As spider-man’s famous quote, “With great power comes with great responsibility”. However, Hon. Punsaran proved that with less power you can also do more. If you truly love what you do, small resources or power does not keep you from doing great things and having BIG impact to your community. The living proof of that is no other than Hon. Punsaran. These are just few of the inspiring and movaonal deeds of Hon. John Jesner Perce Punsaran which makes him truly deserving of the tle.
NATION BUILDERSFor outsiders, Pasay is a city doed with luxurious malls and expensive hotels; with a vibrant workforce eager to enter many of its towering oces, the city is denitely rich by any standards. While all this may be true, Pasay has its own problems, too. And behind the shadows of a glimmering city lies the forgoen alleyways and neighborhoods. Far from the bright lights of public service, Ate Baby So has been silently upliing these o-neglected communies. From the narrow alleyways of Maricaban to the busy thorougfare that is Ta Avenue, she has always been there for the o-neglected Pasayenos. “From being a private person, I will now be exposed to the public eye and to public scruny. But I don’t worry because I am more than ready. I am more inspired than ever to serve the people of Pasay. It may be my rst me in polics, but it is not my rst me in helping people.” For two terms and a half, So would work behind the shadows alongside her adopted sister, Councilor Wowee Manguera. For years, she has been behind some of the councilor’s programs in alleviang poverty and providing assistance to Pasay’s poor. “I’ve always said that I wanted to follow her footsteps in public service. All these years, I’ve been supporve of all her causes and I’ve been in the loop in most, if not all, of her projects.” Now that Wowee is entering her nal and third consecuve term, the me has come for her Ate Baby to step out of the shadows and make a name for herself. “It will denitely be challenging. Wowee has done so much for the people of Pasay. But I will work hard to meet expectaons and even surpass what she did.”AWARDED HONORARYPHILANTHROPISTOF THE YEARMS. YOK TIN TAN SOLIONS CLUB OF MAKATIAYALA AMITY CENTENNIAL LIONS CLUB145
Awarded Honorary Philanthropist of the Year146ATE BABY’S EARLY YEARS Baby So grew up in a business-minded Chinese family. At a young age, she exposed herself to the ins and outs of their family business. While money was never an issue in their household, they see to it that they live life simply and frugally. “We saw the value of every cent, every peso when we were young. Our parents inslled in us the importance of perseverance and hard work. Our father always used to say to ‘never waste a single grain of rice and never take for granted the things that we have.’” When Wowee was 12 years old, Ate Baby’s parents adopted her to her family. Since then, they became partners in running the business, and eventually, in helping people.“I may have not been blessed with kids of my own but it made me capable of helping more people. For me, the people I meet in the streets, the vendors, the elderlies, they are my family. And I will do my best to give them a life that they deserve.” - Ate Baby SoATEBABY SOATE NG BAYAN
“We really lived a simple life back then. Aside from some volleyball, my life revolved around my studies and the family business. We spend aernoons painng bicycles, cleaning up the used bikes that we sell as second-hand. We were already helping our parents at a very young age.” Now a successful entrepreneur on her own, So has secretly been spending her own money to help Wowee in her advocacies and projects. “I’m with her from Day 1 and I think I’ll be with my sister forever. We’re partners in this life of public service.” Widowed with no children, So didn’t lose faith in life, instead, it made her more devoted as she treated her fellow Pasayenos children of her own. Spending all her life in the streets of Pasay, Baby has loy ambions for the people of the second district. If given the chance to serve as part of the city council, she says that she will train her focus on livelihood programs. “My wish for my city is a job for every Pasayeno household. Through livelihood programs, my aim is to give our people decent job opportunies, jobs that would change their lives for the beer.” For decades, Pasay City has been expanding outward of Manila Bay through vast reclamaon projects to give way for more malls, more hotels, more businesses, more establishments. And for So, Pasayenos should rst and foremost benet from these developments. “My aim is to make this growth inclusive for Pasayenos of all kinds – but most especially for those who need upliing the most. We can do this by making sure that our cizens in Pasay will be priorized in workforce needed in these projects.” Baby So got an early head start in public service through her sister, Councilor Manguera. For several years now, she has been spending her own resources in helping the poor – giving away crutches and wheelchairs, cash assistance, groceries and Negosyo carts. She has also long been involved in several livelihood projects by her sister.Awarded Honorary Philanthropist of the Year147A CERTIFIED LAKING-PASAY’S DREAM“We just want to empower Pasayeños because even if you only have one member in your household who has a good job, it will trickle down to the rest of the family. Our goal is to train the citizens of Pasay in various elds to make them part of a world-class Filipino workforce.” - Ate Baby So
Awarded Honorary Philanthropist of the Year148 Aside from livelihood projects, she has also long been serving the youth, the elderly, and the sick of her city. “We have programs in educaon, health, for senior cizens, for sports – basically, we want to provide our cizens beer opportunies, a beer standard of living.” Ate Baby has been helping as a private cizen for years. With no access to government funding, she has used her own money to fund programs for her fellow Pasayenos. “I am really losing money in what I do. But that is what will set me apart. You’ll be sure that I am not entering polics for the money, because all along, I’ve been serving selessly, expecng nothing in return.” But of course, Ate Baby acknowledges that being a councilor will put her in a posion to help more people in a greater capacity. “Every Monday, people would line up for a small nancial assistance from us. We’ll give them P50 or P100 regardless if they are voters or not, whether they came from our district or not, regardless of who they are. I realized that I would be a greater instrument of blessing if given a posion in the government.” “This is also why we work hard in our business – so that it will enable us to help more. The money we use is hard-earned; we do not steal from anyone; we are not using anyone else’s money to line our own pockets. We just want to help.” Asked whether she fears that someday, the well might dry up and she runs out of money, she is condent that she’s got more than what she’ll need in her lifeme. “I noced, the more we help, the more we are blessed.” During the pandemic lockdowns, when life stood sll for many, So knew that the poor needed help more than ever. While school, work, and acvies stopped, the poor sll needed to feed their families, the sick sll needed their medicaon, and the youth sll needed inspiraon. “I saw during the pandemic that we Pasayenos really are helpful. I witnessed the bayanihan spirit in a me when we needed each other the most.” So, like all of us, admied that it was a frightening me, a dark episode in our history. But she connued to serve the people using her own money. “Although we did not go out as what authories instructed everyone during that me, we ensured that every barangay was fed. We packed the grocery items ourselves before it was shipped to every barangay in the district. It was a really scary me, but I knew Pasay needed light and I wanted to be that light.” “We see the Pasayenos not as our constuents but as part of our family. For me, it doesn’t end in the giving, we want to be with them as they change their lives for the beer. We will help them to stand on their own feet and will stay beside them unl they can truly walk. We will help people help themselves, and eventually them helping others on their own.” The so-spoken Ate Baby may have few words but her acons speak louder than those. As she enters the public eye, she remains unfazed and commied into one thing alone: helping other people. “The only thing I can promise is that I will do my best to help every Pasayeno reach their dreams and ambions.”NOT AFRAID OF LOSING MONEYLIGHT AMIDST DARKNESS
NATION BUILDERSIn the vast landscape of change-makers, few have managed to etch as indelible a mark as Mr. Abdulrazzaq Siddiq, the President known for his unwavering dedicaon to sustainability and welfare. His life and work are shining examples of dedicaon to numerous causes, all built around the core idea of beering humanity and the world at large. Born in Karachi, Pakistan in 1970, Siddiq hailed from a family revered for its contribuons to business, charity, and humanitarian causes. In a home where principles of religion, love, respect, and discipline were not just taught but lived every day, Siddiq’s journey was rooted in strong foundaonal values. Remarkably, his academic journey began at the tender age of three, catapulng him into formal educaon without the preliminary years of nursery or kindergarten. His zeal for knowledge led him to complete his secondary educaon from Lile Folks High School in 1985, later graduang with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the Naonal College, Karachi. Reecng on his upbringing, Siddiq fondly recalls, “Despite being well-o, my parents ingrained in us the values of educaon, religion, and persistence as essenal survival tools.” AWARDED HONORARYCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICEROF THE YEARMR. ABDUL RAZZAQ SIDDIQPRESIDENT, 2WORLD TRADERS, INC.“BEYOND BUSINESS: ABDULRAZZAQ SIDDIQ’S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY AND CARE”149
From the bustling streets of Karachi to the sprawling cies of India, Sri Lanka, and Bangkok, Siddiq’s ambion knew no bounds. His reless journeys across these naons were not just travel tales but learning experiences that equipped him with a global perspecve. It was this unwavering ambion, combined with the knowledge he gathered from his travels, that paved the way for the foundaon of 2WORLD TRADERS, INC., in 1998. Inially seng foot as an importer and exporter of an eclecc mix of products ranging from foods and cosmecs to pharmaceucals in the Philippines, the company’s trajectory changed dramacally with the launch of Henna Hair Dye. In no me, it became a staple in Filipino households. However, Siddiq, with his visionary leadership, ensured that the company’s ambions were not just limited to the local Philippine market. He envisioned a greater global outreach and soon spearheaded the expansion of 2WORLD TRADERS, INC., establishing formidable branches in countries like India, Malaysia, and Pakistan. One of the standout endeavors of 2WORLD TRADERS, INC. during Siddiq’s tenure was the rm’s pledge to provide aordable healthcare.Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year150
Under his guidance, the company took the remarkable step of introducing high-grade generic medicines at prices within the reach of an average Filipino. This strategic move was not just a business decision but a testament to the company’s intrinsic value of serving humanity and giving thanks to the Almighty. The ripples of this iniave were felt far and wide. Starng with a modest team of 10, the company’s workforce rapidly grew, transforming it into an internaonal giant employing thousands from various corners of the world. Fast forward to 2023, and 2WORLD TRADERS, INC. made headlines again. This me, it was with the launch of ABHAYRAB, a vaccine that served as a protecve shield, guarding countless Filipinos from the fatal threat of rabies. The company didn’t rest on its laurels and connuously broadened its healthcare porolio, introducing vaccines against HPV, Flu, Rotavirus, and many more ailments. Today, 2WORLD TRADERS, INC. stands not only as a dominant vaccine distributor in the region but also harbors ambions of producing its serum, aiming to bridge the gap and address the vaccine shortage faced by the Philippine Government’s Research Instute.Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year151
With sustainability at the forefront, Siddiq’s ventures have consistently aimed at creang lasng impact. From the introducon of the Tad-600 Glutathione Vials, which has been instrumental in cancer management, to establishing partnerships with global manufacturers like Sinopharm and Biomedica Foscama, Siddiq’s vision has always been expansive yet rooted in service. While Siddiq’s name might be synonymous with business acumen and corporate success, his true calling delves much deeper into realms of hearelt service and meaningful advocacy. Drawing inspiraon from the meless teachings of the Quran, his endeavors transcend the connes of boardroom strategies and nancial statements. Siddiq’s compassion and dedicaon stem from a profound spiritual foundaon, leading him to make a tangible dierence in the world. Children, for Siddiq, represent the hope and promise of tomorrow. Recognizing the vulnerabilies and challenges faced by many, he has made their welfare a cornerstone of his advocacy eorts. Through a tapestry of impacul iniaves—ranging from feeding programs that ensure no child goes to bed hungry, to scholarships that pave the way for brighter futures—he has been a catalyst for change. With each child he aids, Siddiq takes a step closer to his mission of eradicang the shadows of poverty that have ensnared countless young souls, giing them a chance to shine and thrive. Yet, Siddiq’s vision for a beer world doesn’t stop at childhood advocacy. He casts his gaze upon the verdant elds and expansive oceans, understanding the pivotal role the agricultural and shing sectors play in the economy and the sustenance of communies. Recognizing the struggles of farmers, Siddiq has charted plans to distribute hybrid seeds, aiming to introduce transformave agricultural pracces that promise beer yields and a more secure future for farming families. Similarly, he understands the lifeline the oceans provide to countless shermen. To empower them, iniaves are underway to equip shing communies with sturdy nets and resilient boats. Through these endeavors, Siddiq aims to forfy the backbone of the economy while ensuring sustainable and dignied livelihoods for all. In contemporary mes, when many leaders falter or are daunted by the ever-present challenges and adversies, Abdulrazzaq Siddiq emerges as a shining exemplar of resilience and unwavering commitment. His brilliance doesn’t merely light the way; it serves as a lighthouse of hope, radiang the principles of service, sustainability, and an unparalleled dedicaon that transcends self-interest. His odyssey, which commenced on the bustling streets of Karachi, encapsulates a transformave journey that has witnessed him evolve into a formidable force for global change. More than just an inspiraonal tale, Siddiq’s life story is a profound testament to the boundless possibilies that can materialize when one combines an unwavering faith with an indefagable drive. Through his journey, Siddiq underscores the message that with passion, purpose, and perseverance, one can indeed turn aspiraons into tangible realies, leaving an indelible mark on the world.Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year152
NATION BUILDERSIn the realm of entrepreneurship, there are exceponal individuals who not only achieve remarkable success in their ventures but also make a tangible impact on society. AJ Cabarles, the visionary force behind Kaulayaw Coee, is a true change maker whose accomplishments are deeply rooted in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through her unwavering commitment to helping local farmers, providing employment opportunies to marginalized communies, showcasing resilience during the pandemic, supporng frontrunners with free coee supplies, collaborang with USAID to oer healthcare services, organizing MUSIKAPE to foster unity among local coee shops, her acve engagement as a Rotarian and President Elect 2024-2025, and her role as the breadwinner of her family, AJ Cabarles has emerged as a deserving nominee for CEO of the Year. This narrave, complemented by 25 acon photos, will shed light on AJ’s remarkable project iniaves and demonstrate her signicant impact on the community.AWARDED HONORARYCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICEROF THE YEARMS. ALLYN JOY V. CABARLESFOUNDER & CEO, KAULAYAW COFFEEEMPOWERING COMMUNITIES AND BREWING SOCIAL IMPACT THROUGH KAULAYAW COFFEE153
AJ Cabarles’ journey as an entrepreneur commenced with a strong commitment to empowering local farmers. Through Kaulayaw Coee, she established direct trade partnerships with coee farmers, ensuring fair prices for their produce and supporng sustainable farming pracces. By directly engaging with farmers, AJ created a transparent and equitable supply chain that empowered farmers to earn a decent income and improve their livelihoods. This approach not only preserved the cultural heritage of coee farming, but also contributed to the long-term prosperity of the community.EMPOWERING LOCAL FARMERSAwarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year154PROVIDING EMPLOYMENTOPPORTUNITIES TO 4PS AJ’s entrepreneurial spirit is complemented by her deep sense of social responsibility. Her dedicaon to inclusivity is evident in her iniave to provide employment opportunies to individuals from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Recognizing the challenges faced by marginalized communies, AJ created a plaorm at Kaulayaw Coee where individuals from 4Ps could receive training and employment. Through this iniave, she empowered these individuals to acquire valuable skills, achieve nancial independence, and break free from the cycle of poverty.
RESILIENCE AMIDST THE PANDEMIC The onset of the pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for businesses worldwide, but AJ Cabarles demonstrated unwavering resilience. She navigated through uncertaines, ensuring the safety of her employees and customers while sustaining her business operaons. Despite the limitaons and disrupons caused by the pandemic, AJ found innovave ways to adapt her business model, such as oering online ordering and contactless delivery services. Her ability to persevere and nd soluons in the face of adversity serve as a beacon of inspiraon to entrepreneurs facing similar challenges.Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year155SUPPORTING FRONTLINERS WITHFREE COFFEE SUPPLIES During the pandemic, AJ extended her support to the frontliners, who selessly baled to migate the spread of the virus. Recognizing their reless dedicaon and sacrice, she provided them with free coee supplies to boost their morale and show appreciaon for their invaluable service. AJ’s gesture not only provided a small comfort to the frontliners, but it also highlighted the importance of community support and social responsibility in mes of crisis. AJ Cabarles’ dedicaon to community well-being led her to collaborate with the United States Agency for Internaonal Development (USAID). Together, they provided free chest X-ray services to those in need around the community of Sumulong Highway, where Kaulayaw Coee is situated. This partnership showcased AJ’s commitment to accessible healthcare and her eorts to improve the well-being of the community beyond her role as an entrepreneur. By addressing the healthcare needs of the community, AJ demonstrated her holisc approach to social impact.PARTNERSHIP WITH USAID FORCOMMUNITY HEALTHCARE AJ’s passion for community building and collaboraon led her to organize MUSIKAPE, an event aimed at fostering unity among local coee shops in Rizal. By bringing together coee enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and arsts, AJ created a plaorm that celebrated the vibrant coee culture of the region. MUSIKAPE not only promoted local businesses but also contributed to economic growth and cultural preservaon. The event provided a space for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboraon, strengthening the coee community and creang a sense of unity among local entrepreneurs.ORGANIZING MUSIKAPE: FOSTERING UNITY AMONG LOCAL COFFEE SHOPS
Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year156 AJ’s leadership goes beyond business and philanthropy. She proved that a CEO can be a driving force for posive change in the community. She frequently iniated campaigns to help those in need, from providing meals to the homeless to spearheading environmental iniaves to keep the local area clean. Her commitment to community involvement demonstrated that she understood the symbioc relaonship between a business and its surrounding environment – one cannot thrive without the other. One of the most remarkable aspects of AJ’s leadership is her ability to lead by example. She didn’t just delegate responsibility to her employees; she acvely parcipated in community service. Her presence in local events, her willingness to roll up her sleeves and work alongside volunteers, and her genuine interest in the well-being of her community set a standard that inspired others to become more engaged in helping their neighbors. Under AJ’s leadership, her coee shop became a beacon of social responsibility and community engagement. It was more than just a place for a cup of coee; it became a symbol of hope and support for the local residents. Whether through educaonal programs, charity drives, or simply providing a friendly space for neighbors to gather, AJ created an environment where her coee shop was more than a business – it was a hub for the community. AJ’s journey as an entrepreneur, driven by her passion for social impact and community empowerment, showcases her as a true catalyst for sustainable change. Through her iniaves supporng local farmers, providing employment to marginalized communies, demonstrang resilience during the pandemic, supporng frontliners, collaborang with USAID, organizing MUSIKAPE, and acvely engaging as a Rotarian and breadwinner, AJ has le an indelible mark on the lives of many. As her journey connues, AJ will undoubtedly inspire and empower more people to create posive change and make a lasng impact on society. Her commitment to sustainable entrepreneurship, social responsibility, and community engagement sets an example for aspiring entrepreneurs and change-makers. AJ’s story serves as a reminder that entrepreneurship can be a powerful vehicle for social transformaon, and through innovave and inclusive approaches, individuals like AJ can truly make a dierence in the world. AJ Cabarles has righully earned the nominaon for CEO of the Year through her extraordinary commitment to social responsibility, ethical business pracces, and community engagement. Her local coee shop is not merely a source of excellent coee but a testament to the posive impact that a business can have on the community it serves. AJ’s leadership serves as an inspiring example for CEOs and entrepreneurs everywhere, demonstrang that success in business can be harmoniously intertwined with the beerment of society. Her legacy will connue to serve as a beacon of light, reminding us all that businesses can be a force for posive change in the world. AJ Cabarles has garnered well-deserved recognion for her exceponal contribuons and inspiring leadership. In 2022, she was awarded as Exceponal Woman of CALABARZON by the Department of Tourism, highlighng her signicant impact in the region. This recognion not only acknowledges AJ’s entrepreneurial success but also her eorts in promong sustainable development and community empowerment. Furthermore, she received the award for Most Exceponal and Inspiring Entrepreneur of the Year in the Gintong Parangal for 2023, further validang her inuence as a posive change-maker. These accolades serve as a testament to AJ’s dedicaon, innovaon, and unwavering commitment to creang a meaningful impact in her community. In an era characterized by dynamic entrepreneurial spirit and increasing emphasis on social responsibility, AJ Cabarles stands out as a remarkable gure. With a thriving local coee shop, a deep commitment to supporng local farmers, and acve engagement in community iniaves, AJ deserves the CEO of the Year Award. AJ Cabarles’ journey began with her ownership of a local coee shop. In the heart of the community, her coee shop served not only as a hub for caeine enthusiasts but as a testament to her dedicaon to promong sustainability and ethical sourcing. By choosing to priorize local and ethically sourced coee beans, AJ supported local farmers, ensuring they received fair compensaon for their hard work. This approach not only boosted the regional economy but also paved the way for a sustainable and responsible supply chain in the coee industry. Beyond her business acumen, AJ’s inuence extended well into the local community. She recognized that being a responsible business owner goes beyond prot margins; it encompasses giving back to the society that sustains her enterprise. Through her coee shop, she acvely engaged in community programs, supporng local schools, charies, and various community events. Her commitment to these endeavors underscored the value she placed on community development, and she became a revered gure in the eyes of her neighbors. AJ’s dedicaon to service extends beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors. As an acve Rotarian, she has contributed her me, resources, and experse to various community service projects, embodying the Rotary moo of “Service Above Self.” Her involvement in Rotary showcases her commitment to making a posive impact in the community and her desire to create lasng change. Addionally, AJ’s role as the breadwinner of her family showcases her exceponal strength, determinaon, and commitment to their well-being. Despite the challenges she faced, she has managed to balance her entrepreneurial pursuits with her responsibilies as a provider for her family.RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDSAJ CABARLES AS CEO OF THE YEARACTIVE INVOLVEMENT AS A ROTARIANAND BREADWINNER
NATION BUILDERSHow do you plan for mul-billion-dollar projects that generate thousands of jobs and contribute to the growth of the economy? Every project serves a purpose and before it is built, you have to know how much will it take to nish. It’s a simple queson that can be elusive but is so important that it can spell the dierence between protability and loss of money. Engr. Rynor G. Jamandre has answered this queson for hospitals, hotels, power plants, airports, railways and mul-billion-dollar infrastructure projects. Spanning a career of 25 years and establishing Quanty Soluons (QSI) in 2008, he was able to complete more than 650 projects worldwide. “The rst idea is not the best idea,” as he would always advise his team and clients. He was able to develop an algorithm of historical data from several hundred projects that empowers the planning team to capture the right nancial gures to build those ideas. Cost esmang is both an art and science as you have to account for variables and constants that can aect the total project cost.This cost engineering capability is valuable to customers since they can opmize their investments and generate savings that can be used for other purposes like addional working capital or further project oerings.AWARDED HONORARYCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICEROF THE YEARENGR. RYNOR G. JAMANDREPRESIDENT & CEOQUANTITY SOLUTIONS, INC.157
His incredible story of success started when he was a young ten-year-old boy who would help his mother in their fruit and vegetable stand. He was able to develop the penchant for both esmang the weights and quanes of fruits and vegetables to come up with an oer to the farmer or to the wholesaler. When he became a civil engineer, that came handy as construcon materials have to be counted and a need for an esmate on labor and equipment is needed. He was a board placer in the 1998 civil engineering board exams and started his career with DM Consunji, the biggest contractor that me and was assigned at the Rockwell Center project which was also the most expensive real estate project during the nancial crisis in 1998. He was fortunate to be mentored by seasoned engineers like Edgar Sabidong, Rebecca and Elmer Civil who helped him jumpstart a career. From there, he completed the Internaonal School of Manila, St Lukes Medical Center, Two Serendra, Nuvali, Okada Manila, Boracay Airport, Burj Vista Dubai, Marshall Islands Internaonal Airport, IBM Data Centers, Skyway and MRT 7 and the list of notable projects goes on.Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year158
In light of this value-creaon philosophy, Engr. Rynor Jamandre makes sure that his people are well taken care of. “The recent pandemic has caused 80% of our ongoing projects to be put on hold. Despite this, no single employee was laid o – a collecve decision of everyone in the organizaon. Execuves volunteered to waive their salaries for the rst three crucial months of the lockdown, ensuring that the employees within the rank and le did not miss their wages.”, he proudly added as he was reminded of that touching moment. “When you help others, you help yourself.” He would spend a considerable amount of his me teaching and training his team each week. He believes that when you impart your skills and knowledge, you help others but you also make your job easier. A lean team of 5 engineers in 2009 grew into 150 in just a few years and the guys he trained ulmately became the trainers. He has also helped his employees nd bigger opportunies when he personally brought his architect to the US and eventually became a cizen. His former employees are now managers and execuves in top corporaons in the country. “If in doubt, ask.” That’s an important rule he has established in his oce for engineers when faced with dicult quesons. He ensured that the company is conducive for learning by encouraging sharing of ideas, in and out of the oce. Employees parcipate in Toastmasters, go on mountain climbing and sports acvies that develop them into capable individuals. Engr. Rynor G. Jamandre would always say that you need to believe in yourself before you can expect others to believe in you. He tells each employee to break the barrier of their shells and to expand their reach, and capabilies and create opportunies for themselves and others. His rst employee was an engineer with an eye problem that aected his self-esteem and condence. He guided him and made him believe in his capabilies. Today, that same engineer can speak to a big audience with convicon and authority. That’s the power of faith that he unselshly shared with others.Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year159IT’S ALWAYS ABOUT THE PEOPLE
More than skills and talents is integrity. In his profession, he is trusted with the owner’s nancial resources and it takes an unquesonable integrity to resist any form of commission taking or bribes. He believes that INTEGRITY is the main commodity that has sustained his company over the years. Thus, Quanty Soluons Inc. now lives up to the ideology of honesty and integrity – the culture that the whole organizaon is well-known for. This year, through his leadership, Quanty Soluons Inc. took a major step towards ensuring ethical business pracces by beginning the arduous task of securing cercaon for ISO 37001:2016 An-Bribery Management System. This serves as evidence of the company’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of integrity in all of its dealings. By promong ethical behavior and prevenng corrupt pracces, Quanty Soluons Inc. is seng a posive example for the construcon industry. He rmly implemented a non-negoable value of integrity with all his projects. This is the reason why sased clients keep on coming back to avail of his services. Today, Engr. Rynor Jamandre shares his me and talent as a co-chair of the Infrastructure and Logiscs Commiee of the American Chamber of Commerce and as Board of Trustees for the Don Bosco TVET. He also maintains membership with the Royal Instuon of Chartered Surveyors, the American Society of Professional Esmators and the Associaon for the Advancement of Cost Engineering. He was awarded as Disnguished Alumnus of Don Bosco Technical Instute in 2020 and as Outstanding Professional by Superbrands in 2016. The extent of his success can only be measured by the success of his clients. He has helped a customer grow their hotel business from a few rooms to almost a thousand rooms. He has handheld customers in developing oce buildings that were sold for almost a billion dollars with 5 to 6x mulplier. He has guided companies in saving 15% to 25% of their budgets that translated into prots. Hundreds of real estate projects were successful due to his esteemed cost advice. “We may not be the biggest rm out there but we can vouch that we are a trustworthy company,” Rynor proudly added. “It’s because we are not prot-driven but value-driven. I always tell my people that in everything you do, always have the drive to create value. When you create value for others, you increase your own value. We always strive to make our customers happy, and when we do so, the more we impart value.”From here, the arrow points towards a global spread of QSI’s strength and capability. He always dreamed of championing the Filipino Engineers in the world stage, not as OFWs but as able professionals who can compete with the best. QSI’s Lean Team Leadership program allows the employees to become part-owners of their projects which will lead to bigger and beer opportunies for them and their families. He would preach that construcon is the rst barometer of a booming economy and every project brings opportunies for thousands of jobs for the country. This is his reason why he gets up every day and puts eort into the company’s projects resulng to jobs for Filipinos.INTEGRITY IS OUR MAIN COMMODITYQUO VADIS, RYNOR?Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year160
NATION BUILDERSFrom his humble beginnings as a start-up investor to pioneering one of the Philippines’ fastest-growing conglomerates, Mr. Allan L. Crisologo remains deeply commied to the beerment of communies across the country. Mr. Crisologo has and connues to show his unwavering commitment, visionary leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence across various domains. Currently serving as the President of the Golden Group of Companies, he has been the pillar of several iniaves to support the Group’s growth, inspire innovaon, and transform the communies in which they operate for the beer.AWARDED HONORARYCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICEROF THE YEARMR. ALLAN L. CRISOLOGOGOLDEN TOPPER GROUP OF COMPANIESPAVING THE WAY TO BUILDING BETTER CITIES AND BETTER LIVES161
Mr. Crisologo’s visionary leadership has extended far beyond boardroom strategies. Under his guidance, the Group embarked on a series of developmental projects, which include expanding the Group’s business lines, collaborang with the local and naonal government, and the acquision of properes across the country. These developmental projects aimed to help support the social and economic development of cies across Luzon and Visayas. The Group’s venture into the real estate industry is fueled by Mr. Crisologo’s vision of providing highly livable homes and high quality living spaces for all.Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year162
Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year163 A testament to its goal of providing prime real estate investments, two projects under the Golden Topper brand: City Clou in Cebu and Park One in Las Piñas, received the awards for Best Investment Property in Manila and Cebu respecvely at the Dot Property Philippines Awards 2023. The two winning projects were each designed to cater to the needs of homeowners from dierent income brackets. Mr. Crisologo’s all-inclusive approach to providing home soluons has paved the way for the organizaon’s innovaon-driven means of doing business; from its products and services to its ventures into dierent industries. With Mr. Crisologo’s leadership, the Golden Topper Group is gearing up to launch its new businesses to provide complementary services, which include property management, home nancing, leasing, and other services to complete the real estate ecosystem.
Beyond building homes, the Golden Topper brand’s commitment to creang beer cies and beer lives has also transcended into the energy sector; wherein the Group aims to promote the waste-to-energy movement as a means to alleviate the country’s problem with waste disposal and power shortage. True leadership goes hand in hand with social responsibility, and Mr. Crisologo exemplies this. His commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility has been unwavering, which has led to his establishment of the Golden Topper Foundaon, the Group’s vehicle towards promong posive social change. Dedicated to upliing communies and lives across the country, the Golden Topper Foundaon advocates for decent housing for the impoverished, improved access to healthcare and educaon, boosng employment through capacity building, and providing volunteer opportunies for its stakeholders. To kickstart its iniaves geared towards naon building, the Group undertook the land development of a housing project in Naga, Cebu, heeding to the call of then Philippine President Duterte. As a collaborave iniave with naonal agencies and the local government, Mr. Crisologo led the Golden Topper Group towards providing 86 housing units for displaced families. This remarkable eort earned the award for Local Social Welfare Iniave of the Year at the GovMedia Awards 2023, organized by the Charlton Media Group in Singapore. Through Mr. Crisologo’s leadership, the Golden Topper Foundaon aims to become a key player in naon building, through sustaining its partnerships with the government to alleviate the housing backlog in the Philippines, as well as empowering the private sector to become agents of change themselves. The Group, with Mr. Crisologo’s guidance, was involved with the Oce of Presidenal Adviser for Streamlining of Government Processes in championing streamlined policies and processes impacng the real estate industry. From supporng local communies to advocang for employee volunteerism and charitable iniaves, Mr. Crisologo has demonstrated that business success can coexist harmoniously with social good. Under Mr. Crisologo’s extraordinary leadership, the Golden Topper Group has witnessed unprecedented business proliferaon. Mr. Crisologo’s willingness to take calculated risks has brought the Group to where it is now and shall be the driving force behind its future successes. By idenfying opportunies where others saw challenges, Mr. Crisologo has spearheaded projects and iniaves that have not only thrived but aim to raise the bar for new developments. Mr. Crisologo proved that a President can be more than just a corporate gurehead; they can be a force for change, a beacon of innovaon, and a champion of social responsibility.More than just a recipient of the award for Honorary CEO of the Year; he is a leader who embodies the values and principles that dene the very best in business leadership.Awarded Honorary Chief Executive Officer of the Year164
NATION BUILDERSCOLONEL GREGORIO BUENVIAJE HERNANDEZ JR O-10946 PHILIPPINE NAVY (MARINES) (GENERAL STAFF CORPS) is an outstanding military leader who has dedicated his life to serving his country. He was born on 24 November 1969 in Bauan, Batangas. His disnguished career spans several decades, marked by his unwavering commitment to the Philippine Marine Corps. As the 33rd Superintendent of the Marine Corps Force Development Center (MCFDC), COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) has played a pivotal role in shaping the training and preparedness of the Philippine Marine Corps. COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) commenced his military journey in 1988 when he joined the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and graduated in 1992. He pursued numerous educaonal and training courses and demonstrated a commitment to connuous learning and service. These include the Naval Ocers Qualicaon Course, Naval Command Sta Course, and AFP Command and General Sta Course, honing his strategic and operaonal leadership skills. Addionally, he completed specialized courses like the Marine Basic Airborne Course, Naval Intelligence Ocers Course, and Peacekeeping Operaons Training, showcasing his prociency in diverse military operaons. He expanded his horizons through foreign educaon, including the English Language Course at the Defense Language Instute in Texas, USA, and the Communicaon and Informaon Systems Ocer Course at the Marine Corps University in Virginia, USA.COL. GREGORIO B. HERNANDEZ, JR. PN(M)(GSC)SUPERINTENDENTMARINE CORPS FORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER (MCFDC)165AWARDED HONORARYMODERN FILIPINO HEROISMOF THE YEAR
He also delved into Peace and Conict Resoluon Studies at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand as a Rotary Peace Fellow. His academic journey culminated in a Master of Arts in Security Studies with a major in Combang Terrorism: Policy and Strategy Level from the Naval Post Graduate School in California, USA, and a master’s degree in Developmental Security with a major in Public Administraon from the Development Academy of the Philippines.COL. HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) remarkable career stands as a testament to his commitment to serving his country, promoting peace, and fostering prosperity in the Philippines. His leadership, both in the military and community development, has left a lasting impact on the nation.Awarded Honorary Modern Filipino Heroism of the Year166
Awarded Honorary Modern Filipino Heroism of the Year167 Throughout his illustrious career, COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) took on various roles within the military, each marked by his exemplary dedicaon and leadership. His rst senior billet was with the Marine Baalion Landing Team 11 (MBLT11), where he served as the Baalion Commander. Imbued with his desire to assist in the development of the community, COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) led his baalion in performing mul-task funcons in acve partnership with stakeholders such as the locals, LGUs/LGAs, CSOs, and NGOs to aain the vision of his unit in its area of responsibility to have a secured environment conducive to peace and development. He implemented the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan concept, implemenng Triad Operaons consisng of people-centered Civil Military Operaon (CMO) acvies and a modied mix of Combat Operaons structured into SIX LINES OF OPERATIONS. It aimed to promote peace and order through educaonal awareness on wrongful discriminaon of soldiers to civilians and vice versa and to support good governance, socio-economic development, environmental management, cultural unity, and community engagement whilst co-exisng. MBLT11 managed to achieve this through constant dialogues between the military and the community. He also iniated a project that links some poor areas of Sulu to the markets of Metro Manila called “Fruits of Hope.” It is a joint iniave of the Philippine Naonal Red Cross, the Oce of the Presidenal Adviser on the Peace Process, the Philippine Government of Sulu, and other key stakeholders that provides an opportunity for various groups and sectors based in Sulu to reach bigger markets for their good to be sold. COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) also supported the painng project that later produced the Peace Wall of Pakul. The wall stands as a testament to the people’s will and characteriscs as peace-loving people. These projects aimed to showcase Sulu’s enormous potenal for growth in agriculture and tourism with the hopes for peace and prosperity in the province. In partnership with the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu, LGUs, and GMA Kapuso Foundaon Inc. (GMAKFI), COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) orchestrated the “Unang Hakbang sa Kinabukasan” Program and Marine Literacy Patrol System that generated funds in support of the educaonal needs of the students from dierent barangays of Sulu. Approximately 700 students were able to receive books, toys, and school supplies. COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) advocated several projects, including the ‘Pick Red Advocacy,’ which focused on educang farmers about producing high-quality products by picking ripe (red) coee beans. COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) linked the People’s Alliance for Progress Mulpurpose Cooperave (PAPMPC) to the Philippine Coee Board, which taught the former strategies on how to enhance processes in their livelihood and helped them expose to bigger markets with bigger demand for the coee products. The members of the cooperave are also inuenced by Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists. Hence, “pulling” them to the good and safe side is crucial in maintaining peace and order in the area.THE FEW, THE PROUDMARINES
Awarded Honorary Modern Filipino Heroism of the Year168 In addion, COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) iniated the project called the “Balik Barangay” Program. Through this, the “Klasrum ng Pag-asa” was brought to fruion for the ulizaon of students in the nearby area. Some teachers were also given support for their training to make the project more sustainable. Another iniave to support the educaon of children was to provide transportaon to go to school daily. Marine trucks would pick up the children near their homes, bring them to the school in the morning, and fetch them aer class hours to send them back to their homes. These iniaves were implemented to prevent them from being recruited by ASG terrorists. This project inspired COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) to iterate the same project in Ternate, Cavite, with the most recent reef enhancement program held as part of the MCFDC anniversary acvies. Moreover, COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) iniated the 1st Sulu Dive for a Cause, wherein Marines and esteemed partners took me and installed arcial reef sanctuaries under the municipal waters of Pakul, Sulu. These iniaves support the development of marine ecosystems, which is important to maintaining a peaceful and orderly relaonship between our people and the seas. Another notable event in COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC)’s career was when designated as the Deputy Commander of the 4th Marine Brigade, deployed in the 2nd District of Sulu. He recommended an operaonal design of a bi-centric approach to prevent the extensive eects of conict. In conict, there are enemies as well as other people, which could either be the families of the enemy, people residing near the conicted area, or the like. In the bi-centric approach, he also gave importance to the current state and future lives of those who surrendered to the government and the family members of those who were killed ASG members by providing them with a livelihood. In collaboraon with the Sinagtala Foundaon, the 4th Marine Brigade geared toward providing appropriate support to women and children through weaving training. Aer the training, tools, and equipment were provided to them to kickstart their weaving livelihood. Notably, COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) is keenly aware of the signicance of Gender and Development. One of his enduring legacies is the connued conduct of the Gender and Development Seminar at this Center. These seminars serve as a crucial plaorm to raise awareness among its personnel regarding gender equality, as well as peace and order within the organizaon. With his devoon to service, COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) has been honored with numerous awards, including the Disnguished Service Star, Disnguished Navy Cross, Meritorious Achievement Medal, Gawad sa Kaunlaran, Bronze Cross Medal, as well as various Military Merit Medals and commendaons. His achievements reect his dedicaon to the Philippine Marine Corps and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Aside from this, the weaving program aims to empower Tausug women and preserve the cultural heritage of the Tausug. Moreover, during the pandemic, he iniated the renovaon of the two classrooms, comfort rooms, and wash area of the Bual Primary School building through the collaborave eorts of the 7th Marine Brigade and SOAR (Support Opportunies for Academic Resources) of the Maghari Class of 1991 of the USTGCC. COL HERNANDEZ engaged stakeholders to support the Children’s Free Library repair and maintenance. Addionally, he supported the Localized Social Integraon Program (LSIP) that benets the ASG surrenderers and their families. These deradicalizaon programs were inspired by his Naval Post Graduate School thesis entled “Indonesia and the Philippines: Lesson on Deradicalizaon Programs for Detained Terrorists.” He was also instrumental in distribung books to four schools sponsored by TV5 Alagang Kapad Foundaon and 7th Marine Brigade (Reserve) in a project called “Books Across the Sea.” Through this project, thousands of students were able to receive new learning materials in the hopes of achieving a higher literacy rate among Filipino children. Aside from educaonal programs, COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) is also commied to pursuing socio-economic developments for the benet of the community within his area of responsibility. In partnership with The Church of Jesus Christ of Laer-day Saints, the MBLT11 was able to provide 15 lobster cages to selected beneciaries on a pay-forward type of project. The Church provided materials to build the cages. The shermen built the cages while the Marines provided security as well as manpower. With genuine support from the Marines, the shing community was inspired to establish a Markeng Cooperave for their produce. This development increased the number of lobster cages since recipients were inspired by the abundant lobster harvest that provided them a substanal source of income. Furthermore, COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) advocates for environmental protecon. As a scuba diver himself, he fully ulizes his skills in diving with several coral restoraon projects. In “Bring Back Life to the Sea” in Zamboanga, COL HERNANDEZ JR PN(M)(GSC) parcipated in the conduct of an informaon drive dedicated to sherfolks about illegal forms of shing such as dynamite shing, cyanide shing, and the like and its harmful eects to the ecosystem. Addionally, COL HERANDEZ helped the 4MBDe facilitate the Localized Social Integraon Program (LSIP) that benets the ASG surrenderers and their families.
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Awarded Honorary Most Empowered Woman of the Year170
Awarded Honorary Most Empowered Woman of the Year171
Awarded Honorary Most Empowered Woman of the Year172
Awarded Honorary Most Empowered Woman of the Year173
Awarded Honorary Most Empowered Woman of the Year174
NATION BUILDERSDr. Bae Okile Mangondato Sharief, Alhadja, has an untarnished reputaon as demonstrated by her honesty, credibility, incorrupbility, irreproachable conduct, exemplary experience, performance, accomplishments as evidenced by her services in her community by giving assistance to unfortunate vicms of the Marawi Siege in 2017, COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020 and providing scholarship grants to the youth and development assistance to all Muslim brothers and sisters. Beyond her remarkable achievements Dr. Bae Okile Mangondato Sharief, Alhadja is an educator, author, civic leader, philanthropist and recipient of various Internaonal Awards and Recognions. Her mission extends to all young generaons reaching towards empowerment and realizaon of their goals as her moo in life says “Dream your dreams, never doubt. Never rest unl those dreams is yours.” Truly, Educaon is the only treasure that nobody can steal from us and a greatest weapon in any forms of bale. Educaon is basically providing knowledge, enhancing skills, and developing personality and atude. Knowledge is indeed a power. A power to face dierent challenges in life and engaging yourself to embrace opportunies and make your aspiraons and personal goals into reality. I strongly believe that everyone is entled to have educaon from cradle to grave. AWARDED HONORARYPUBLIC SERVANTOF THE YEAREXCELLENCE IN PEACE AND NATION BUILDINGDRA. BAE OKILE MANGONDATO SHARIEF, ALHADJAFOUNDER / CHAIRWOMAN / PRESIDENT LANAO CENTRAL COLLEGE, INC. – LCCI175THE PHILANTHROPIST WITH A GOLDEN HEART FOR THE PEOPLE
Awarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year - Excellence in Peace and Nation Building176 Educaon makes us opmisc and view obstacles as challenges to overcome with no fear and open arms. As Friedrich Nietzsche once said “He who would learn to y one day must rst learn to stand and walk, run, dance and climb; one cannot y into ying” therefore, it is not enough to just dreams, live and let live! Make the best of it to succeed. NOTABLE PROJECTS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS DRA. BAE OKILE MANGONDATO SHARIEF, ALHADJA• FREE CAPITAL;• FREE RIDE;• FREE DIALYSIS;• FREE RAMADHAN IFTAR;• FREE TUITION FEES;• FREE SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR ORPHANS;• MARAWI SIEGE RELIEF OPERATION;• COVID19 RELIEF OPERATION;• FREE DISTRIBUTION OF RELIEF GOODS FOR MARAWI SIEGE EVACUEES;• SPECIAL AYUDA (ASSISTANCE) FOR ORPHANS;• SPECIAL AYUDA (ASSISTANCE) FOR FIRE VICTIMS;• SPECIAL AYUDA (ASSISTANCE) FOR IMAM & BILALS;• SPECIAL AYUDA (ASSISTANCE) FOR INMATES IN JAIL;• SPECIAL AYUDA (ASSISTANCE) FOR PEDICAB DRIVERS;• SPECIAL AYUDA (ASSISTANCE) FOR PWD - PERSON’S WITH DISABLITIES; AND• SPECIAL AYUDA (ASSISTANCE) FOR USTADZ (ARABIC TEACHERS) Her family have been known for their incomparable reputaon for honesty and integrity, they have devoted their life to extend humanitarian services, they are publicly known as God-fearing people and ideal cizen of the country. Dr. Bae Okile Mangondato Sharief, Alhadja, obtained an exemplary educaonal preparaon by holding several educaonal degrees from prominent and presgious colleges of the country. Dr. Bae Okile Mangondato Sharief, Alhadja, was formerly holding a posion in the educaon/academe sector of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as the Regional Execuve Assistant of the Commission on Higher Educaon of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CHED-ARMM). She has varied experiences in educaonal development works both in the government and in the private sector as well as strengthened linkages with foreign countries and established alliance building for peace and poverty reducon with basic service delivery for poor and conict/calamity-stricken communies in the Philippines. Dedicated concern for genuine peace and welfare of the Muslims in the Philippines emphasizing more on peace advocacy programs, supporng the naonal government and other peace stake holders that aim to address the Mindanao conict.
However, Loue’s impact goes far beyond her professional accomplishments. She’s a devoted mother to two boys, aged 19 and 4, embodying the art of gracefully balancing family and career. As a supporve wife, a cherished friend, and a dependable partner, she remains deeply grateful for the gi of life from her parents and stands as a reliable sibling when needed most. In addion to her real estate endeavors, Loue is the Co-founder of X Oce, a pioneering service oce provider that oers turnkey oce soluons, a testament to her boundless entrepreneurial spirit.Awarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year - Excellence in Peace and Nation Building177 Dr. Bae Okile Mangondato Sharief, Alhadja,’s unparalleled performance has gained a naonal and internaonal recognion and prominence as evidenced by the recognion extended to her by various Award Giving Bodies:• DOCTOR OF SOCIAL WORK (HONORIS CAUSA) BY UNITED NOBLES RESCUE SERVICES & SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AWARD CERT. NO.:UNRS-GAHE 2020-0010, SWEDEN;• CHAMPIONING ACADEME LEADERSHIP AWARD BY THE LEGACY ICON AWARDS 2022• MAHATMA GANDHI PEACE AWARD FOR SOCIAL SERVICES 2020, INDIA;• MAHATMA GANDHI PEACE PRIZE AWARDEE FOR SOCIAL SERVICES 2021, INDIA;• AMBASSADOR IN HUMANITY PHILIPPINES BY SPMUDA INTERNATIONAL;• AMBASSADOR FOR WOMEN & CHILDREN AFFAIRS BY GLOBAL ACADEMY FOR HUMAN EXCELLENCE;• MOST OUTSTANDING SOCIAL ACTIVIST OF THE YEAR• OUTSTANDING DIGNITARY AWARD BY UN ESC 2021, SOUTH KOREA;• WOMAN OF INFLUENCE: MOST INSPIRING BANGSAMORO WOMAN AND BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR BY ASIA PACIFIC LUMINARE AWARDS 2021• GLOBAL AMBASSADOR 2021 BY DYNAMIC PEACE RESCUE MISSION INTERNATIONAL, AGEGE, LAGOD, NIGERIA;• MOST EMPOWERED WOMAN WITH EXCELLENT LEADERSHIP IN THE FIELD OF BUSINESS & EDUCATION BY GINTONG PARANGAL 2021• WORLD’S BEST TEACHER AWARDEE 2021 BY ASIAN UNIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL, INDONESIA• EDUCATOR / BUSINESS ENTREPRENEUR AWARD BY DANGAL NG LAHI 2021• MOST EMPOWERED LEADER IN EDUCATION, ADMINISTRATION & BUSINESS MANAGEMENT BY PHILIPPINE SOCIAL MEDIA AWARDS 2021• MOST OUTSTANDING EMPLOYEE BY COMMISSION IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN THE AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANO IN 2015• OUTSTANDING BANGSAMORO EDUCATOR AWARDEE• MOST OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY ORGANIZER IN 2012• LEADERSHIP AWARDEE (1991)• MOST OUTSTANDING PUPIL (APCES)
Dr. Bae Okile Mangondato Sharief, Alhadja, had been selected as:• REGIONAL HEAD DIRECTOR FOR BARMM BY GLOBAL ACADEMY FOR HUMAN EXCELLENCE;• CELI (COUNCIL OF EMPOWERED LADIES INTERNATIONAL) PHILIPPINES REGIONAL PRESIDENT -MINDANAO FOR SOCIAL SERVICES; AND• PHILS. UNESC DIRECTOR FOR DECENT WORK & ECONOMIC GROWTHDr. Bae Okile Mangondato Sharief, Alhadja, has established her highest enthusiasm as Peace Advocate, Torel-Madrasah Organizer, Community Organizer and Neutralizer by strongly supporng the following:• REHABILITATION OF REBEL RETURNEES• PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF MUSLIM SETTLEMENTS. SUPPORT TO MADRASAH EDUCATION• INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT TO QUR’AN READING COMPETITION• PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF MUSLIM ECONOMIC AFFAIRS.• COORDINATION, SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION OF FREE PILGRIMAGE. • COORDINATION WITH OTHER MUSLIMS COUNTRIES. • PROMOTION, DEVELOPMENT AND ENHANCEMENT OF MUSLIM CULTURE AND INSTITUTIONS. Dr. Bae Okile Mangondato Sharief, Alhadja, is the youngest daughter of Hadji Ali Alimatar Sawasa Sharief, the direct descendant of the First Sultan a Cabugatan sa Poona Masiu and Dr. Norma Mangondato Sharief, PhD, the CEO/Founder/President of the Philippine Muslim Teachers’ College (PMTC), rered Regional Chairman II and Managing Commission of the Commission on Higher Educaon of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CHED-ARMM/BARMM) and Crowned with the Royal Title as Baialabi a Dumalondong sa Bug in 1987, a Royal Blue Blooded descendant of the Ruling Sultanate of Ranao Pangampong parcularly the Royal Houses of Bug and Masiu.INHERITANCE OF GOOD SEEDS: THE PROFILE OFDR. BAE OKILE MANGONDATO SHARIEF, ALHADJAAwarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year - Excellence in Peace and Nation Building178
She is the granddaughter of the rered military Major General of the ARMED Forces of the Philippines, the late Diamongan K. Mangondato and wife Hajja Sie Mariam Somanggibo Tomabilang Mangondato who has been enthroned with two royal tles, Potre Maamor sa Poona Masiu and Bai a Labi sa Poona Masiu, a cultural master due to her ability in Oral Tradion. She has ve siblings, all professionals and successful in their chosen career. First, Dr. Noralin Mangondato Sharief-Ador, is her elder sister, a medical doctor and the founder of Mindanao Instute for Healthcare Professionals Inc. (MIHP). Second, Late Datu Agakhan Mangondato Sharief who is popularly known as Binladen sa Ranao, a former municipal councilor and a former vice mayor of the Municipality of Masiu, Lanao del Sur, and the former president of Philippine Muslim Teachers’ College (PMTC) and Khadija Mohammad Islamic Academy (KMIA). May ALLAH SWT Grant him Jannatul Firdaus Allahumma Ameen. Third, Hajji Omar Ali Mangondato Sharief, a Juris Doctor, 9th Placer, 2016 Shari’ah Bar Examinaons, Supreme Court of the Philippines, Civil Service Professional Eligible, Licensed Professional Teacher and the founder of Al- Bangsamoro Shari’ah and Professional Educaon College (ABSPEC). Fourth, Hajji Abdul Jabbar M. Sharief, a graduate from the MSU College of Social Sciences and Humanies specically the degree Bachelor of Arts in English and a LET Passer. He is also the Management Senior Consultant of the Philippine Muslim Teachers’ College. And h, Haji Muhammad Sultan Lucky Mangondato Sharief, a graduate of Computer System Design and Programming at AMA Computer College in Iligan City. With this wife they founded the PMTC Laboratory School or known as Prophet Mohammad SAW Knowledge Center (PMKC) oering Elementary and Secondary Educaon programs. Lanao Central College, Inc. is one of the instuons established in Marawi City founded on 2012 and began with a small populaon oering BEED, BSCrim, and AB-SHARIAH. Today, aside from pioneer courses in Educaon, Criminology, and an AB program in Shariah, the school now oers Bachelors in Social Work, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Accountancy, and even graduate studies in Educaon and Public Administraon were oered in 2018. The following years CPRT or MAGNACARTA were also oered, and it begun in 2020. This is one of the main reasons why Dr. Bae Okile Mangondato Sharief, chairman and founder of LCCI, toiled hard to make her vision of providing her people quality educaon, a reality. Known for helping people, Dr. Sharief always dreamed of bringing a posive impact to her community. As a Maranao, adversies and challenges are not new to her while growing up. What set her apart, though, is her enthusiasm to learn, only matched by her eagerness to share her knowledge. Dr. Sharief recognizes that to achieve lasng peace, the root of society’s problems must be addressed. LCCI has been known as the “home of free tuion fee” in the city, ever since its establishment in 2012. Through this, even families with less resources and opportunies are given the chance to send their children to a reputable school and change not just their family’s lives, but also their community’s future, for the beer.EDUCATION IS THE ANSWER FOR PEACE, INCLUSIVITY AND NATION BUILDING LANAO CENTRAL COLLEGES AS THE BEACON OFHOPE THROUGH EDUCATIONAwarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year - Excellence in Peace and Nation Building179
In her life dedicated to philanthropy, Dr. Sharief has garnered numerous awards throughout the years; she has earned numerous distinctions from different organizations and established her reputation as a proud daughter of the city. But the most illustrious among her accolades remains to be her gift of education to the people of Marawi City, and beyond – the Lanao Central College. Dr. Sharief recognizes that to achieve lasng peace, the root of society’s problems must be addressed. LCCI has been known as the “home of free tuion fee” in the city, ever since its establishment in 2012. Through this, even families with less resources and opportunies are given the chance to send their children to a reputable school and change not just their family’s lives, but also their community’s future, for the beer.In 2018, in order to reach more survivors of conicts and calamies, the LCCI established its own Department of Social Work. The program aims to insll to students the oen-overlooked importance of professional social workers in molding the future of the naon – with knowledge, values, and skills.LCCI’s helping hand goes beyond the borders of Marawi City. Community outreach programs are extended to the disadvantaged communies of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur. They also help in assessing and addressing social issues and concerns of these people.Through LCCI, people even from far-ung barrios are heard, their lives are changed for the beer and their communies earn the aenon and regard they badly need. By listening to their concerns, conicts are avoided, and peace is given a chance.Peace is achieved when basic human rights is respected – the right to a decent life, right to educaon, and right to a sustainable livelihood – and LCCI has been instrumental in bringing these to communies.Awarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year - Excellence in Peace and Nation Building180
NATION BUILDERSAs an internally displaced person (IDP) himself, Bangsamoro Member of Parliament Khalid Ma-amor Hadji Abdullah fullled one of his lifelong dreams to share his utmost love and care to the Bangsamoro community when he was called to formally serve the Bangsamoro Region. Known by many as MP Kyle, is a bureaucrat, leader, ally, and a loving parent to everyone including the stray fur babies of the streets of all the places he passes by. The MP Kyle who was humbled by all kinds of experiences in life, down to the lowest point situaon a normal person can never imagine, up to the successful person he is now. His journey to the public service started from the boom as he served as Execuve Assistant in the oce of then Lanao del Sur 1st District Representave Faysah RPM Dumarpa. With this experience, he nally grasped the truest situaon of his fellow countrymen and dreamt of a realisc change for his Bangsamoro brethren to which he will be able to achieve even in a short span of me. He carried this dream even aer his engagement in the oces of Lone District Representaves of the City of San Jose del Monte, Arturo Robes and Florida P. Robes, a blessed engagement which played a big role in slowly lending a hand to anyone who needs a helping hand. Having started from the lowest among the professional structures of the government, MP Hadji Abdullah, through hard work and dedicaon, honorably earned the trust and condence of the great leaders which paved his way to the Bangsamoro Parliament which in turn became his vehicle to expand his iniaves for the people, and achieve his goals on becoming an all-around advocate he was always dreaming of.AWARDED HONORARYPUBLIC SERVANTOF THE YEARHON. KHALID “MP KYLE” M. HADJI ABDULLAHMEMBER OF PARLIAMENT, BANGSAMORO TRANSITION AUTHORITY181
As an all-around advocate MP Kyle is determined to become, he tries to extend his services to almost all types of issues which he thinks needs a prompt and eecve redress. The following are the highlighted services he managed to render in his rst year of public service as a Member of Parliament: • 3RD RANAW YOUTH PEACE AND LEADERSHIP SUMMIT (PEACE AND ORDER PROGRAM);• LAPIS, HINDI BALA, PROGRAM FOR THE MADRASAHS IN THE PROVINCE OF LANAO DEL SUR;• FREE EYE CATARACT OPERATION PROGRAM: OPLAN PANGALAWANG PANINGIN;• MEDICAL MISSION TO THE INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS SITUATED IN BRGY. ROROGAGUS, MARAWI CITY;• SERIES OF OGOP KO FIRE VICTIMS PROGRAM;• SERIES OF DISTRIBUTION OF FINANCIAL, MEDICAL, EDUCATIONAL, TRANSPORTATION, CASH AND FOOD ASSISTANCE;• CASH, RICE AND BREAD ASSISTANCE TO TYPHOON PAENG VICTIMS IN THE PROVINCE OF MAGUINDANAO;• OUTREACH PROGRAM FOR VULNERABLE SCHOOLS IN THE PROVINCE OF LANAO DEL SUR;• SERIES OF OGOP KO MGA TORIL PROGRAM (ASSISTANCE TO ORPHANAGES);• SERIES OF YOUTH, PEACE, AND COMMUNITY SYMPOSIUM;• OGOP KO MGA MASJID PROGRAM (ASSISTANCE TO MASJIDS);• DISTRIBUTION OF 150 RECHARGEABLE SPEAKERS TO MASJIDS IN THE PROVINCE OF LANAO DEL SUR;• RELIEF OPERATION TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE DUMPSITE AREA OF MARAWI CITY; • CASH ASSISTANCE TO SOCIO-CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS FOR A CAUSE;• RAMADAN IFTAR PROGRAM TO MASJIDS IN THE PROVINCE OF LANAO DEL SUR AND IN MANILA;• DISTRIBUTION OF RICE AND GROCERY ASSISTANCE TO THE VULNERABLE RESIDENTS OF THE PROVINCE OF LANAO DEL SUR; AND• RICE ASSISTANCE TO THE INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS OF MARAWI CITY.Awarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year - Excellence in Government Service182
And among the above-menoned services, it is the “Free Eye Cataract Operaon Program: Oplan Pangalawang Paningin” he is most proud of as his oce was able to help a total of two hundred (200) residents of the Province of Lanao del Sur who had eye cataract problem who cannot aord quality cataract treatment. Studies shows that cataract remains to be one of the most signicant causes of treatable visual impairment that accounts for more than half of the total incidence of blindness among Filipinos, and for MP Kyle’s muslim-lipino brethren, eyesight is very important to religiously read the holy Qur-an, an obligatory act for Muslims, and also to enjoy the sight of their loved ones. The distribuon of a total of one hundred y (150) rechargeable speakers to several masjids in the province of Lanao del Sur is also one of the favorite iniaves of MP Kyle since blackouts are very common in his province. With the provision of quality rechargeable speakers to several masjids of Lanao del Sur, blackout will not be an issue anymore as the Bilal can call to prayer (to perform adhan), and the Imam can condently proceed with the sermon and lead the prayer, even without electricity. Likewise, MP Kyle was also able to author and co-author a total of one hundred forty-one (141) Resoluons. It was highlighted in his rst ever resoluon commending Mindanao State University – Main campus, Marawi City that “A time will come wherein majority, if not all, of the Bangsamoro community will be abounded by humble professionals and great leaders.” With all his le and right social services, his duty as a member of the Bangsamoro Parliament is simultaneously being discharged with imparality, strong convicon, and a rm stand. In his one (1) year of service as a legislator he was already able to author and co-author one hundred four (104) Bangsamoro Transion Authority Bills, and among these bills, four (4) of which were already signed into law such as:1. BTA PARLIAMENT BILL No. 29 otherwise known as the Bangsamoro Electoral Code;2. BTA BILL No. 43 or An Act Establishing the Administrave Capital of the Bangsamoro Government in the Municipality of Parang, Province of Maguindanao, Appropriang Funds Therefor, and for other Purposes;3. BANGSAMORO AUTONOMY ACT. No. 34 or An Act Extending the 2020 and 2021 Special Development Fund; and4. BTA PARLIAMENT BILL No. 128 An Act Extending the General Appropriaons Act of the Bangsamoro unl December 31, 2023, Except Personnel Services, Amending for the Purpose Secon 48 of the General Provisions of the 2022 General Appropriaons Act of the Bangsamoro.Awarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year - Excellence in Government Service183
MP Kyle always believed in the potenal of his fellow Bangsamoro, as well as to the bright future his beloved Bangsamoro Region awaits, with the right guidance, funconal innovaons, and a goal-oriented leader. As earlier menoned, MP Kyle is also among the IDPs of Marawi City. The home where he grew up in Marawi City was destroyed by the 2017 Marawi Siege incident. As much as he wants to help in rebuilding the heart of Marawi, and sasfy his fellow IDPs in re-claiming everything they lost during the frighul siege, his authority, power, and resources does not allow him to do so. But the good MP Kyle assures that for as long as he is living and well, he will try his utmost best to give his fellow IDPs the help and assistance they truly deserve. MP Kyle’s love for his province, especially Marawi City, is undeniable. Indubitably, he would overdeliver just to ensure the welfare of his fellow Bangsamoro. For him, serving his people with love and passion is not just a duty, but a dream fullled.Awarded Honorary Public Servant of the Year - Excellence in Government Service184
NATION BUILDERSAt a very young age, he was already fascinated with technology. During elementary school, he frequented the student library to create websites. Believe it or not, the domain for his blog, www.mjernandez.com was acquired when he was sll in his 3rd Grade in Elementary. Mark spent his high school years at a public school. During high school, he connued to pursue his love for computer programming. He frequented internet cafes to talk to college students studying computer programming and asked for ps on being a good computer programmer. His parents disagreed with him pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Informaon Technology and was advised to take a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. But, since his parents were farmers in Negros Oriental, he decided to work as Student Assistant for four years at the Silliman University Main Library. His years of hard work at the library paved the way for him to be awarded Library Student Assistant of the Year. During his college days, he was an acve student leader. He became President of various student organizaons. One of them was the Silliman University Student Assistants Associaon (SUSAA), the ocial organizaon of all working students in Silliman University. It was there that he realized the need for good government policies. He then took the Civil Service Commission Exam in college and was recognized as the top 1 in Region VII.AWARDED HONORARYBUSINESS INNOVATORAND EXECUTIVEOF THE YEARMR. MARK JOSEPH T. FERNANDEZ, CPA, RFC, AFA, CWP, CEPPCHAIRMAN, FINANCEPH GROUP OF COMPANIES185
“I dream of a Philippines without poverty, and I believe this can be done through financial literacy and technological innovations.” This is the dream of Mark Joseph T. Fernandez, for the Philippines to prosper and improve the standard of living of Filipinos. He believes that the way to do this is to teach nancial literacy and use technology to help people and improve processes. Currently, Mark is the Chairman of the FinancePH Group of Companies It was also in college that Mark faced his darkest moment in life when he was diagnosed with a severe Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), causing him psychosomac asthma and extreme headaches. During this me, he developed his love for philosophy, life, and spirituality. It was also in these trying moments that he saw the need for Jesus. He became a Chrisan and let go of his atheism. As a working student, Mark saw the dierences between a successful student assistant aer college and one who is not. Those who became successful aer college connued to study and self-learn. In these realizaons, he realized the need for literacy even aer college. This led him to connue to study dierent biographies of successful people. He also realized the need for nancial literacy among the Filipino populaon.Awarded Honorary Business Innovator & Executive of the Year186
Awarded Honorary Business Innovator & Executive of the Year187 During his visit to Maka, he accidentally applied as an insurance sales agent. He was supposed to apply as an accountant but was redirected through a sudden twist of fate. Eventually, he passed the licensure exam to be an accredited insurance and investment agent. A few weeks later, Sycip, Gorres, and Velayo (SGV & Co) knew he passed the CPA Board Exam. He received a call from SGV and was invited to apply as an IT Auditor for the company. He accepted the oer and worked in SGV. But, realizing that his talents and gis were not suited for a desk job, he went full-me in his career in insurance and investment sales. At 22, he became one of the youngest MDRT members in the Philippines. Million Dollar Round Table Member (MDRT) is a presgious associaon of the top 5% of nancial advisors worldwide. In his 10th year with MDRT, he gained the Top of the Table status, making him one of the top professionals in the internaonal nancial services industry. Mark connually upskilled himself and got the tles: registered nancial consultant (RFC), cered wealth planner (CWP), cered estate planner (CEPP), accredited nancial analyst (AFA), and cered public accountant (CPA). He was one of the few nancial advisors who pioneered technology in nancial planning. Over the years, he has achieved numerous awards as a nancial advisor, such as Top of the Table (TOT) and Life & Qualifying MDRT Member (MDRT). He then founded what would now be the FinancePH Group of Companies, composed of ve businesses in nance, technology, consultancy, stock market invesng, and transportaon. The transport business was Mark’s rst dip in an ocial business. Mark started with a few units of taxi and grab, which grew year aer year. Mark’s vision at that me was to help taxi and grab drivers get to know Jesus and improve their lives through the transport business. Realizing that the transport business was not his core strength, he appointed a Transpo General Manager to focus on his passion - nancial literacy and technology. It was then that FinancePH Seminars was created to educate Filipinos on areas such as - Taxaon, Accounng, Entrepreneurship, Stock Market, Estate Planning, Business Management, and Strategy. The business was successful, and the community grew to more than 130,000 followers on Facebook. Due to his connued passion for nancial literacy, he happily accepts requests for interviews and talks. Several TV and radio staons started contacng him. He was then featured on several TV staons such as ABS-CBN, ANC, GMA, and CNN. All these exposures and his level of competence elevated him to become a frequent resource speaker during Senate hearings, for example, The TRAIN 1 Law and the Estate Tax Amnesty Law. Several companies, government instuons, and college and graduate school students, have also invited him to give talks.
Mr. Fernandez eventually gained prominence in the eld of Finance, which eventually led to the creaon of his insurance agency corporaon - Aetos Financial. Through the help of his now wife, they have grown the agency to have advisors in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The Insurance Agency has an exclusivity contract with Manulife Philippines and partnerships with various non-life and health insurance companies. Aetos Financial aims to be a one-stop shop for all kinds of insurance and investment needs for individuals (B2C) and businesses (B2B). Name an insurance or investment, and Aetos Financial can provide it. He reignited his interest in soware and technology by leading his agency through digitalizaon, making Aetos one of the Philippines’ most signicant and most digitally equipped insurance agencies. This also led to the creaon of a new company called Etouso (which means Easy To Use Soware). Currently, most of the soware at Etouso is aimed at helping companies with most of their employees working from home. Recently, he was selected by eToro, a popular stock broker, to become a Popular Investor. Mark can be copied by aspiring investors who do not know how to invest in the stock market. In eToro’s Copy Trading feature, all stock acons by the Popular Investor being copied will automacally be reected as a purchase/sell by the copying investor. Mark’s good stock market investment returns made him one of the most copied Popular Investors in the Philippines specializing in dividend stocks. He has also frequently been invited to give a talk at an internaonal event for investors called “Trader’s Fair,” which is held every year at Shangri-la to promote diversicaon of investments. Literacy is something that resonates with Mark. Schools are the beacons of literacy, and they must be given support. He loves to do philanthropic acts in the far-ung areas of the Philippines. One notable good deed that he has extended, even in his early career years, was to reach a very hard-to-access elementary school. Mr. Fernandez was able to provide material donaons to the school’s facilies and also to the happy children in the said locality. Aside from his successful career in insurance and investment, Mr. Fernandez acvely serves non-prot organizaons. In 2020, he became the President of the Rotary Club of Maka North with the theme “Rotary Opens Opportunies.” MJTF believes that educang more professionals on nancial literacy is the only way for the Philippines to progress. He dreams of upliing the quality of lives of individuals and entrepreneurs. In fact, the tagline of the FinancePH Group of Companies is “Your Prosperity, Our Advocacy.” Aside from work, he believes in the saying, “A happy wife is a happy life.” He’s happily married Mica Fernandez and has two kids - Samantha and Marco. During his term in the Rotary, Mr. Fernandez spearheaded projects that hoped to upli the lives of the marginalized in the Philippines. Together with the RCMN members, they iniated and conducted health awareness campaigns such as Joint End Polio Awareness, Covid Free Environment Projects, and Joint Cyberbullying and Prevenon webinar. These iniaves even extended up to conducng a Vocaon Service Project for Teachers. As one of the youngest presidents in Rotary, he ended his Presidenal term by receiving a 6 Star, the highest disncon for Rotary Presidents. Due to Mark’s inspiring life story, he has been frequently featured in newspapers, magazines, and books. Now, he is also compleng his rst book on invesng in dividend stocks, which will be out soon. He is also compleng his Master’s at the Asian Instute of Management. In 2022, he was part of the Golden Globe Annual Awards as an Outstanding Filipino Achiever in Entrepreneurship. He believes that our dreams and goals must be sustainable, which prompted him to create business processes, projects, and advocacies that help ght climate change and protect the environment. He proudly supports work-from-home programs and encourages entrepreneurs to adopt a hybrid or complete work-from-home system. His seminar business has been conducng regular seminars to help encourage fellow entrepreneurs to adopt sustainable and environmentally healthy pracces.Awarded Honorary Business Innovator & Executive of the Year188
NATION BUILDERSDiether Ocampo is a mul-awarded Filipino actor, Rotarian, Coast Guard Auxiliary ocer, and philanthropist. His journey from ’90s icon, acng legend, and household name to his present humanitarian and diplomac advocacies has been an inspiring one. Let’s take a look at where he started and how he got to where he is now. Diether Pascual Ocampo was born on the 19th of July, 1973 in Bacoor, Cavite. He is of both German and Chinese descent. He undertook his primary and secondary school educaon in Cavite, then proceeded to De La Salle University, Dasmarinas, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administraon (majoring in Entrepreneurial Studies). During a talent search that ran between 1995 and 1996, ABS-CBN idened him as a potenal candidate for an actor’s role. A year later, he joined the Star Circle Batch II. During the same period, he was the vocalist of a pop-rock band called Blow, where he was known as Captain. In 1997, he made his inial appearance in acng in a movie called Calvento Files: The Movie. He holds a record for featuring in 13 television series. Some of his most famous roles were in Wherever You Are (2005), Apoy sa Dagat (2013), and La Vida Rosa (2001). He appeared in several commercials and also starred in an an-zoo ad for the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. AUX CAPTAIN DIETHER P. OCAMPOPHILIPPINE COAST GUARD (PCG) PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD HEADQUARTERS189AWARDED HONORARYICON AND INNOVATOROF THE YEAR
Diether has also tried his hand at producon. He was the execuve producer of the album Hello Pain, from a band named The Pin-Ups, which was signed under an American label. He is also an execuve producer of Tandem Entertainment. In 2019, Diether joined the ranks of famous personalies who have entered the volunteer organizaon of the Philippine Coast Guard. He is now a naval reservist and Captain of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, belonging to the Coast Guard Auxiliary District of the Naonal Capital Region– Central Luzon (PCGA CGAD NCR-CL). He currently serves as the Deputy Director for External and Internaonal Aairs of the PCGA Naonal Auxiliary Main Oce (PCGA NAMO) and concurrent Deputy Chief of Sta for Marime Community Relaons (COMREL) – CGAD NCR-CL. Diether completed his marime training in 2019 at the Philippine Center for Advanced Marime Simulaon and Training (PHILCAMSAT) through the Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc. (PTC) From 2014 to present, Diether has served as special sta and Aide-de-Camp to foreign diplomats, including but not limited to the Ambassadors of Germany, Israel, Mexico, Singapore, Spain, and the United States of America.Awarded Honorary Icon and Innovator of the Year190
Diether is an honorary member of the Naval Special Operaons Command (NAVSOCOM) Class of ‘85 and the Coast Guard Special Operaon Force (CGSOF). He acvely parcipates in Defense Cooperaon Iniave Programs with Foreign Aachés and has also gained an honorary tle from the Foreign Armed Forces Aachés.“Nakilala ko lalo kung sino ako. Nakilala ko ang mga Pilipino, nakilala ko kung gaano kayaman ang Pilipinas pagdating sa tao. Kaya nagdesisyon ako na mas mabuti pa siguro na pasukin ko ang mundo ng seafarer”- Ocampo said.Awarded Honorary Icon and Innovator of the Year191
Awarded Honorary Icon and Innovator of the Year192It’s specic dues are the following:• Assist the PCG in search and rescue operaons and in responding to ship emergency situaons.• Assist the PCG in promong the safe operaon of vessels and the conservaon of the country’s marine resources through informaon disseminaon and training, and in responding to emergencies at sea that involve containment of marine polluon and the protecon of marine resources.• Assist the PCG in the maintenance and development of aids to navigaon and in the promoon of its signicance.• Promote youth development to enhance their concern for sea safety and the protecon of marine environment.• Promote goodwill and fellowship in the PCGA and with related local and internaonal organizaons.• Assist the PCG in carrying out its plans and programs. A PCGA member is not compensated for his services. He is expected to submit himself to the group’s responsibilies as he simultaneously performs other funcons in his own professional career. Diether was also the former Investment Promoons Ambassador of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), an Ambassador of Goodwill of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and a HERO Foundaon Ambassador.Diether is a man with a big heart, whose involvement in helping the less fortunate is far-reaching. He is a charter member and co-founder of the Rotary Club of Maka Circle of Friends (RCMCoF), and currently serves as Project Chair for numerous programs such as the Iron Circle Bloodleng Program, and the Tunay na Iskolar ng Bayan Program—a program that seeks to provide 1,000 scholarship grants to orphans of fallen soldiers and dependents of eligible AFP, PCG, and PNP personnel. He is also the co-founder of a non-prot, non-polical organizaon called Kabataang Inyong Dapat Suportahan (KIDS) Foundaon, established in 2008, which delivers medical and academic support to less-privileged children in far-ung and conict-stricken areas of the Philippines. The mul-faceted Diether is also a private pilot, compeve polo player, cered diver, and spearshing pesca-sub diver. His primary advocacy is to upli and improve the enre marine ecosystem, especially the quality of life of sherfolk communies.WHAT IS THE PCGA AND CAPTAIN OCAMPOS ROLE?
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable District2ND DISTRICT OF CAVITEHON. LANI MERCADO-REVILLAREPRESENTATIVECongresswoman Lani Mercado-Revilla stands as a ne example of a servant leader who is commied to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through her disnct approach to governance. Her leadership style, known as ALAGANG ATE LANI, encapsulates her steadfast dedicaon to sustainable objecves. During her tenure as Bacoor City’s Local Chief Execuve, from July 2016 - June 2022, she envisioned the City of Bacoor as a dynamic center of commerce, trade, leisure, and culture. Despite various obstacles, especially those posed by the pandemic, she was persistent in her vision and adopted an inclusive all-of-Bacoor approach, rallying the community through a collaborave sama-sama, tulong-tulong campaign. This approach yielded remarkable results. Her administraon not only laid the groundwork but also successfully executed several projects that are now delivering tangible benets to Bacooreños. It was not surprising then that the City of Bacoor has consistently been awarded the Seal of Good Local Governance or SGLG by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) during her term. That the district has experienced remarkable growth and progress is not surprising because of the combined eorts of Cong. Lani, Mayor Strike Revilla, and Sen. Bong Revilla, Jr. And now, she connues her advocacy in the great halls of Congress as the representave of the Second District of Cavite, craing legislaon for the progress and advancement of the City of Bacoor and the rest of the naon. Consistent with the Philippine Development Plan of the Marcos Jr. administraon, she is working to enhance employment opportunies, ensure food security, promote nutrional well-being, facilitate access to high-quality educaon, and improve the overall health of Filipino families.193
Cong. Lani is dedicated to enhancing healthcare access for economic growth in her district. She has expanded and professionalized healthcare services through the Southern Tagalog Regional Hospital (STRH), from the 10-bed Bacoor District Hospital to its current 100-bed operang capacity. The recently inaugurated Building Five at STRH, named aer the late Senator Ramon Revilla, Sr., adds 45 beds for indigent paents, serving not only Bacoor but the enre Calabarzon region. Cong. Lani led House Bill 2534 to further expand STRH to 300 bed-capacity and elevate it to a terary hospital. She is likewise co-author to House Bill 6557, which provides for the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers and House Bill 6452, which establishes the Virology and Vaccine Instute of the Philippines.GOOD HEALTH FOR ECONOMIC GROWTHCertified Most Sustainable and Liveable District194
Through Cong. Lani’s oce, an impressive sum of P98 million in medical aid, medicaon, and burial assistance has been disbursed to Bacooreños through the Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situaons or AICS program. She has also facilitated medical assistance, amounng to P17 million for indigent paents through the Medical Assistance to Indigent Paents (MAIP) program of the Department of Health. Her oce has also spearheaded projects addressing the health needs of various sectors including providing HPV vaccine for teachers and Pap Smear tests for women, as well as giving wheelchairs, walkers and crutches to PWDs. Cong. Lani stood behind a number of bills empowering entrepreneurship and employment. The One Town, One Product Law, OTOP, also known as Republic Act 11960, represents a signicant smulus for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers not only advocates the development of world-class seafarers but also their full protecon. Addionally, House Bill 8008 supports indigent job seekers through discounts or waived fees for pre-employment documents. REVILLA Center, in partnership with the Technical Educaon and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), plays a pivotal role in providing vocaonal training to Bacooreños seeking employment or pursuing entrepreneurship. It was during her term as chief execuve that the center experienced remarkable growth as its facilies were upgraded, providing quality technical-vocaonal educaon in the city. At present, Cong. Lani has granted some P13 million worth of TESDA scholarships to Bacooreños. Cong. Lani’s brand of leadership underscores her commitment to building strong and sustainable cies and communies through House Bill 6715, which has been approved in the House and transmied to the Senate. The SIM Card Registraon Law or Republic Act 11934 aims to safeguard consumers’ right to privacy and provides safety. House Bill 004 is another piece of legislaon that Cong. Lani is advocang for. Its objecve is to create the Electronic Commerce Bureau to protect consumers and merchants engaged in internet transacons. Throughout the pandemic, then Mayor Lani exhibited innovave approaches to safeguard public health, introduce digital soluons, and enhance the eciency of public services. Her iniaves, such as the development of the Stay Safe app and the digitalizaon of the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS), played pivotal roles in responding to crises and bolstering economic resilience. In 2018, aligning with her vision of streamlined and prompt public service delivery, Bacoor iniated the Revenue Administraon and Modernizaon Program (RAMP), supported by the Department of Finance. Cong. Lani pushed for the establishment of the One Town, One Product Hub at Main Square Mall in the City of Bacoor, giving a boost to small and medium scale enterprises. The OTOP Hub features products made in Bacoor as well as other towns and cies in Cavite and nearby provinces. Addionally, P47 million in nancial assistance has been extended to Bacooreños in dire need through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ang Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers or TUPAD program. These eorts mirror her steadfast commitment to the well-being of Bacooreño families.INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, INFRASTRUCTURECertified Most Sustainable and Liveable District195
This iniave paved the way for the digital transformaon of Bacoor’s BOSS, which transioned to an online plaorm in November 2019. This innovaon proved invaluable, especially during prolonged community quarannes. In October 2021, Bacoor’s “BILIS SERBISYO, ALAGA KA BACOOR” program earned recognion in the Best in Government Internal Operaons Category as part of the Digital Governance Awards of the Department of Informaon and Communicaons Technology. Furthermore, Bacoor introduced BEGIN, the Barangay E-Governance Informaon Network system, in March 2021. The barangays embraced this system to automate their records, enhancing the implementaon of essenal social programs by both the city and the naonal government. BEGIN proved instrumental in the ecient distribuon of aid, facilitang vaccine registraon, and managing vaccinaon schedules. She successfully reinstated Alert 161 within the City of Bacoor, leading to the city’s recognion at the Gawad Kalasag Awards. The 1st district of Cavite has adopted the system through a memorandum of agreement. The establishment of the Alert 161 Center in Talaba 4 exemplied the integraon of the Bureau of Fire Protecon (BFP), Philippine Naonal Police (PNP), and City Disaster Risk Reducon and Management (CDRRM) teams, playing a crucial role in its eecve implementaon. In response to the increasing eects of climate change, she took further measures to enhance the city’s emergency response capabilies by overseeing the construcon and compleon of the Bacoor City Resiliency Building. Recognizing the nancial burden of burials on less fortunate cizens, her administraon addressed this issue by construcng a crematorium, mortuary, and chapel at St. Michael Cemetery. At present, Cong. Lani is focused on nishing the Sentrong Pangkultura at Museo ng Lungsod ng Bacoor which is established in House Bill 9087. This has been connected to the Roads Leveraging Linkages of Industry and Trade Program of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which provides an accessible boardwalk linking Museo to the agri-shery tourism zone in Bacoor Bay. Cong. Lani helped establish the Land Transportaon Oces of Imus and Bacoor at Revilla Business Park for easier access to Bacooreños and cizens from nearby municipalies and cies. She is also facilitang the construcon of addional covered courts and mulpurpose halls in our barangays to strengthen the sense of community among Bacooreños. These iniaves reect a holisc approach to governance, ensuring that various aspects of the community’s welfare are addressed. Less than a year in Congress, Republic Act 11946 was approved, principally authored by Cong. Lani for the establishment of the Mariano Gomes Naonal High School. The bills for the establishment of Progressive Senior High School and Progressive Elementary School have also been approved in the House and transmied to the Senate. Signicant iniaves are underway, including the One Tablet, One Student program and instuonalizing the Expanded Terary Educaon Equivalency and Accreditaon Program. Concurrently, the proposal for the establishment of the Public Schools of the Future in Technology has also been approved in the House and transmied to the Senate. A breakthrough in providing high quality secondary educaon for qualied Bacooreño students is the establishment of the Bacoor Naonal Science High School through House Bill 6220, as well as the establishment of a regular campus of the Cavite State University (CVSU) in the City of Bacoor. Cong. Lani worked at the signing of the Deed of Usufruct with the Industrial Technology Development Instute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for their properes in Molino 3. This is another example of her sama-sama, tulong-tulong approach as it is a convergence of various agencies including the Department of Educaon, DOST, CVSU, and the City Government of Bacoor. Students who excelled in basic educaon need not go to Metro Manila and be separated from their families to acquire high standard secondary and terary educaon as they could study in their own city. These legislave eorts are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal for Quality Educaon and underpin Cong. Lani’s unwavering commitment to fostering jusce and good governance. Cong. Lani remains steadfast in her belief that the youth represents the beacon of hope for the naon. In pursuit of this vision, mobile tablets were distributed to public school students in grades 8 through 12, while laptops were provided to teachers and school administrators during her term as chief city execuve. Under the “Go Konek Tayo Bacoor Program,” eorts were made to ensure access to a stable internet connecon, facilitang seamless online learning experiences. One of Cong. Lani’s milestone achievements has been the successful relocaon of almost 5,000 Informal Seler Families (ISFs) residing in perilous areas along the coastal easement of Bacoor Bay. These families have been reseled in Naonal Housing Authority (NHA) project sites located in Naic, Cavite, eecvely migang the risks they previously faced. Another 1,440 Bacooreño families have been reseled in Ciudad De Strike Phase 1 in Molino I, an in-city pilot vercal Community Mortgage Program (CMP) project of the Socialized Housing and Finance Corporaon (SHFC). Furthermore, DPWH has iniated the construcon of the Bacoor Diversion Road along the Bacoor shorelines, enhancing safety and accessibility for local residents. Among other notable projects is the Ciudad Kaunlaran Phase 1 reselement project, which is poised to provide 1,860 housing units for ISF beneciaries; 540 units will be turned over this year to families of shermen aected by the Bacoor Reclamaon and Development Project. Addionally, the creaon of Ciudad Malasakit, a temporary shelter project featuring around 200 units for crisis evacuaon purposes, underlines the commitment to ensuring the welfare and safety of the community during challenging mes. During her term as chief execuve, it served as a relocaon site for ood and re vicms and later on as a COVID facility. It is currently used as a CSWD facility for minors who violate curfew hours in the City. The Alagang Ate Lani caravan serves as a vehicle for delivering a wide range of welfare services directly to the barangays, with a special focus on senior cizens through the Kalinga sa Matatanda program. Cong. Lani’s journey as a servant leader reects her dedicaon to fostering sustainable economic growth, promong quality educaon, reducing inequalies, and strengthening instuons. Truly, ALAGANG ATE LANI has made an impact in the hearts and homes of countless Bacooreños.QUALITY EDUCATIONREDUCED INEQUALITIESCertified Most Sustainable and Liveable District196
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable PartylistPARTYLIST - BHHON. BERNADETTE“BH” HERRERAREPRESENTATIVE197In the realm of Philippine polics, few gures shine as brightly as Congresswoman Bernadee Herrera. Her journey through public service is a testament to her unwavering dedicaon to her community, her constuents, and our naon. From her early days as a passionate advocate to her current role as a respected legislator, Congresswoman Herrera has consistently championed causes close to her heart. She embarked on her educaonal journey at the University of the Philippines - Diliman, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science Degre e in Business Economics. While juggling the rigors of university life, she remained rmly dedicated to contribung to her community. In fact, it was during her formave years at UP Diliman that Congresswoman Herrera’s commitment to public service truly blossomed. She volunteered as a teacher, oering her me and experse to educate impoverished students. Her dedicaon to helping those in need was further fueled by the encouragement and endorsement of the late President Corazon Aquino, a tribute to her potenal as a force for change. Eventually, she graduated with honors and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business economics. She then went on to obtain her Master of Finance in the year 2000 in the same university. From its incepon, BH and BHFI have achieved remarkable success by establishing computer learning centers that oer complimentary computer training services throughout Quezon City. In 2004, they introduced the pioneering Computer School-on-Wheels (COWs) program in the Philippines, which reached various barangays and public schools in Quezon City. Its value was so evident that the Quezon City government embraced the iniave by launching the e-School-on-Board program, with BH playing a pivotal role. The impact of COWs extended beyond Quezon City, as Navotas City and the provinces of Pangasinan and Laguna also embraced the program.
In response to increasing demand, BH expanded its eet of COWs to include various regions, such as Bulacan and Aklan, and accommodated other areas upon request. True to the spirit of Bagong Henerasyon, Congresswoman Herrera connuously introduces innovave programs that bring services directly to the doorsteps of her constuents. Following the success of COWs, she introduced iniaves like Skills-on-Wheels, Mobile Clinics, Teen Mobile Centers, Kindergarten-on-Wheels, and welding-on-Wheels, all aimed at addressing the evolving needs of her community.BAGONG HENERASYONPARTYLIST - BHCertified Most Sustainable and Liveable Partylist198
Throughout her three-term, nine-year tenure in local public service, Congresswoman Herrera focused on iniaves aimed at strengthening good governance and sound scal management in Quezon City. Her eorts were widely recognized, earning her mulple presgious awards. She was awarded as the Most Promising Councilor of 2001, and was also awarded the Most Outstanding Councilor from 2002 to 2004. Accordingly, she was inducted into the Hall of Fame for being the Most Outstanding Councilor for three consecuve years. She likewise received three disnguished awards from the Quezon City Press Associaon, namely the “Most Promising Councilor,” the “Outstanding Councilor,” and the presgious “Hall of Fame Award.” These accolades reect her consistent dedicaon to excellence in public service. Her achievements even go beyond local recognion, as Congresswoman Herrera’s commitment to legislaon and public service has been acknowledged with various naonal awards. Some of these include the “Huwarang Pilipino Award in Legislaon,” recognion by the “City Councils Premyo Konseho,” the esteemed “Consumer’s Choice Award,” and the presgious “Dangal ng Pilipinas” award. In addion to these honors, Congresswoman Herrera’s reless eorts in public service have been recognized by naonal agencies. She has received the “CSC Lingkod Bayan Award” from the Civil Service Commission, the “TESDA Naonal Kabalikat Award” from the Technical Educaon and Skills Development Authority, and the esteemed “Huwarang Batas Award.” These awards underscore her signicant impact on various aspects of governance and community development, and arm her exemplary contribuons to improving the lives of her constuents and the broader community. Her journey in Congress began in 2010, and right o the bat, she iniated a courageous invesgaon into the water concessions in Metro Manila. Undaunted by powerful interests, she stood up to the giants and, aer a decade-long bale, achieved a signicant victory. Her eorts led to the reclassicaon of these concessionaires as public ulity companies, subject to auding by the Commission on Audit (COA) and constrained by a 12% Return on Investment (ROI) cap. This landmark decision brought transparency and accountability to a crucial sector of public services.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Partylist199
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Partylist200 Thereaer, in 2016, she assumed the role of Assistant Majority Leader while also chairing the Commiee on Public Informaon. Her leadership in these capacies laid the foundaon for her subsequent ascent in the polical arena. Notably, Congresswoman Herrera’s advocacy extends to scal responsibility and government accountability. Her reputaon for excellence in budget scruny was established in 2016, highlighng her keen understanding of nancial maers and her dedicaon to maximizing the use of earmarked revenues and o-budget accounts. Her work in this area underscores her commitment to ensuring that public funds are ulized eciently and eecvely for the benet of the Filipino people. Addionally, Congresswoman Herrera’s advocacy for tax reform demonstrated her dedicaon to equitable taxaon. Her eorts resulted in the implementaon of a tax reform law that aimed to create a fairer and more sustainable tax system, ensuring that the burden of taxaon was distributed more equitably among cizens. Through her roles as Deputy Speaker of the House and Deputy Majority Leader, Congresswoman Bernadee Herrera has proven me and again that her commitment to serving the people and advancing the naon’s interests is unwavering. Her leadership, coupled with her reless pursuit of beer governance and legislaon, connues to have a profound impact on the Philippines, driving it towards a future aligned with global standards of excellence and progress. Behind the capvang charm and remarkable modesty of our disnguished guest, hides a erce acvist. She stands out for her combaveness, her reless convicons and especially her eloquence, which she put to good use at the House of Representaves, where she is serving her fourth term as the representave of Bagong Henerasyon Party-List. Among her more signicant achievements as a legislator are the passing of the Universal Health Care Law, the Universal Access to Quality Terary Educaon Act, the 100 Day Maternity Leave, the “Tulong Trabaho Act,” and of course, the Prohibion of Child Marriage Law. For her outstanding performance and contribuons, she was awarded “Congressman of the Year” in 2022 by Mosliv, and She was even recognized as a beacon of style and substance when she was presented as one of the “Best Dressed Style Icon of 2022” by People Asia. Recently, she also broke into the Top 6 of the latest RP-Mission and Development Foundaon Inc. (RPMD) survey on the country’s top performing party-list lawmakers, proof of her exceponal performance as a party-list legislator. Currently, she is championing a cause that transcends polical aliaons and geographic boundaries – the cause of ensuring a water-secure future for our beloved country. By being one of the main authors of the bill on the Naonal Water Act, she has denitely shown her unwavering dedicaon to the cause, her reless eorts in championing sustainable water management, and her vision for a water-secure country, and this has earned her a well-deserved place at the forefront of this naonal issue. Furthermore, Congresswoman Herrera is ardently advocang for the swi and spirited implementaon of the Expanded Solo Parents Act, coupled with an extensive outreach campaign to disseminate informaon about it. In sum, Congresswoman Herrera has cast a giant polical shadow that has touched, if not changed, the lives of many in the country for more than twenty years. But perhaps her more enduring achievements are in those she has helped, people whose lives were turned for the beer by her generosity and kindness. In addion to her nancial acumen, Congresswoman Herrera has also championed the cause of water regulaon reform. Her eorts have resulted in the establishment of a more independent MWSS Regulatory Oce, distancing it from undue inuence from concessionaires. This move has facilitated the government’s direct provision of salaries to MWSS employees, a crucial step towards beer governance in the water sector. Moreover, her iniaves have paved the way for important developments in water and wastewater management. In 2019, she connued to serve as Deputy Majority Leader, and her dedicaon and competence led her to the presgious posion of Deputy Speaker. During this period, she chaired the Commiee on Public Informaon and later assumed leadership of the Commiee on Women and Gender Equality. Her reless eorts in these roles contributed to her reputaon as a commied advocate for gender equality and transparency in government. Building on her successes, Congresswoman Herrera played a pivotal role in advancing key legislaon aimed at aligning Philippine laws with global standards. Her unwavering commitment to pushing for meaningful change resulted in the passage of signicant laws such as the “Ease of Doing Business Act” and the recent tax reform law. The “Ease of Doing Business Act” was a transformave piece of legislaon that aimed to streamline bureaucrac processes and make it easier for businesses to thrive in the Philippines. This law not only bolstered economic growth but also improved the overall business environment, fostering job creaon and investment.
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable PartylistACT-CIS PARTYLISTWidely known as the “kakampi ng mga inaapi,” the An-Crime and Terrorism Community Involvement and Support (ACT-CIS) Partylist has been the recourse of many Filipinos who experienced discriminaon, exploitaon, marginalizaon, and oppression in the society. During the 2022 Naonal and Local Elecons, ACT-CIS Partylist garnered the highest number of votes - 2,111,091. This echoed the trust of the Filipino People to the Partylist to represent them in the august chamber. The ACT-CIS Partylist connues to represent the face of the common Filipinos—spanning across the country’s mulple sectors, most especially the oppressed and underprivileged. As a consistent advocate of inclusivity, ACT-CIS believes that such must be both mul-dimensional and all-encompassing in order to exhibit a genuine and responsive representaon of a diverse society. The Partylist remains to forward the interests of the marginalized, the most vulnerable, and the underrepresented. Such advocacy is apparent in the legislave measures that the Partylist unceasingly puts forward in the Philippine Congress. Being trusted by the major electorate, ACT-CIS Partylist has garnered three (3) seats for two (2) consecuve terms. At present, ACT-CIS is represented by Congressman Erwin Tulfo, Congressman Edvic Yap, and Congresswoman Jocelyn Tulfo in Congress. The ACT-CIS Representaves have forwarded a signicant number of legislaons for mulple issues that are pernent to the country’s persisng problems and iniaves towards progress. All of these measures are geared towards the pursuit that no sector or concern must be le behind—may it be in terms of policymaking or invesgaon in aid of legislaon.201
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable District202KAKAMPI NG MGA MANGGAGAWA The ACT-CIS Partylist stands with the rights of laborers—may they be formal or informal workers. ACT-CIS outrightly condemns labor exploitaon which includes lack of security of tenure, just compensaon and benets, welfare services and social protecon as well as repeve drudgery and risky working condions. It is in this regard that the ACT-CIS rallied for a variety of legislaons for laborers, parcularly the Magna Carta for Barangay Healthcare Workers, Security Guards, and Social Workers; Protecon of Caregivers, Media Workers, and Freelance Workers; Increase in the Grants and Benets to Teachers, Filipino Athletes, Farmers, Public Ulity Vehicle (PUV) Drivers, and Overseas Filipino Workers, to name a few. ACT-CIS believes that the codicaon of the rights of these laborers, primarily through legislaon, will strengthen their labor rights and compel employers to never disregard nor violate these rights.
KAKAMPI NG MGA OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERSKAKAMPI NG MGA SENIOR CITIZENSKAKAMPI NG MGA PERSONSWITH DISABILITIESKAKAMPI NG MGA KABABAIHAN Apart from being known as the protector of the repatriated, distressed, and abused Overseas Filipino Workers, ACT-CIS is also at the forefront in pushing for the OFW rights and privileges in the legislave branch. Among the Partylist’s priority legislave agenda is ensuring the safety and welfare of our OFWs against dubious and risky working condions, illegal recruitment, insucient medical care, among others. As the genuine ally of the OFWs, ACT-CIS is among the principal authors of the proposed House Bill Protecng the OFW Remiances, Establishing of the OFW Hospital, Granng Benets and Privileges to Indigent OFWs, Amending the Migrant Workers Act to Establish a More Stringent Denion for Illegal Syndicate, and other House Resoluons direcng invesgaon of various employment agencies for illegal recruitment and deployment. ACT-CIS Partylist recognizes the invaluable contribuon of the elderly in naon-building and societal development throughout history. However, appreciaon alone would not hamper the increasing poverty incidence in the aging populaon. Not only certain dole outs and increased pension are ought to be granted to the Senior Cizens, as the ACT-CIS arms. Addionally, the Partylist believes that the State shall also be able to instuonalize a wide array of opportunies that will allow the elderly to unleash their hard work and passion such as mandang public agencies and compensang private enes to employ qualied Senior Cizens. True to its agenda of protecng and ghng for the oppressed, ACT-CIS Partylist no less than opposes the numerous and repeve cases of gender-based violence, parcularly on women. It is no denying that violence is not only dened as physical torture but extends to the emoonal, sexual, and nancial abuse to women. Worse, most cases of domesc violence results to the children being the collateral damage while most cases remain unreported due to imminent fear of baered wives and children. Among the noteworthy measures spearheaded by ACT-CIS for our Lolos and Lolas (Grandfathers and Grandmothers) are the House Bills that (a) Grant Addional Benets to Filipino Centenarians, Octogenarians, and Nonagenarians, (b) Increase the Monthly Senior Cizens’ Pension, (c) Criminalize Elderly Abuse, (d) Establish the Lifeme Validity of Senior Cizen Passports, (e) Organize the Naonal Eye Service Program for the Elderly, and most especially, (f) Instuonalize the Employment of Qualied Senior Cizens Both in the Public and Private Sectors. ACT-CIS Partylist aests that despite a number of iniaves and measures in pursuit of the development of the Persons with Disabilies (PWDs), PWDs are sll at the disadvantage in the several facets of society. Indeed, the Partylist arms that numerous provisions of assistance will not migate, if not eliminate, the social barriers that PWDs face in their day-to-day living condions. Being the Partylist that serves as the voice to the voiceless, ACT-CIS accentuates the primordial importance of empowering the PWDs such as providing a conducive and inclusive working environment on their behalf. Emboldened with the purpose of a lasng inclusivity and growth of the PWDs, ACT-CIS became the principal sponsor of several legislaons for the said purpose such as House Bills that (a) Grant Monthly Subsidy to Indigent PWDs, (b) Establish the Naonal Care Plan for Ausm, and most importantly, (c) Instuonalize the Expansion of PWD Employment in Both the Public and Private Sectors. Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable District203
Apart from being the rst resort in rescuing and assisng abused women and children, ACT-CIS Partylist raises the voice of women in the halls of Congress. Part of its legislave agenda is the establishment of Halfway Houses or Safe Haven for Abused Women and Children Naonwide. The Partylist ascertains that similar facilies under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) shall not only be found in one locaon but rolled out across provinces in the country. Aer all, there are abused women and children in every corner of the country and the immediacy of the relief they needed nonetheless persists. ACT-CIS also puts regard on the prevalence of nancial abuse as a form of violence against women and children. While such act is already punishable under Republic Act 9262 or the An-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004, violaons of the Penal Law connues, if not increasing. Strengthening the said Penal Law includes the establishment of more stringent penales, which the Partylist instantly made in its recently led House measure. Inclusivity is not only about reaping the benets or advantages of a united agenda, it is also tantamount to being seated in the table, being given a plaorm to voice out each grievances and consensus, and being able to become a decision maker. The Partylist is among the primary proponents of the Community-Driven Development Bill which empowers every barangay or community of targeted municipalies through parcipatory planning, budgeng, and decision-making in consideraon of various geographical and socio-economic condions of these communies. The gist of the said legislaon is a gradual shi in the dynamics of leadership as it embodies a boom-up approach, one in which policies are directed towards enhancing parcipatory governance pracces, tapping community organizaons parcularly the basic sectors, and responding rst-hand to community needs. The aforemenoned legislaons are only few of the many measures that ACT-CIS have led to realize the vision showing that the interest of every Filipino becomes the state’s utmost priority. The number of bills that the ACT-CIS has authored sll do not measure up to the overall legislave agenda of the Partylist itself. Inside or outside the halls of Congress, with or without mandate, ACT-CIS Partylist will remain to be the ally of every Filipino, most especially, the voice to the unheard, unrepresented, and underprivileged. Poverty remains as the main index of development, and thus, its alleviaon, if not eradicaon, connues to be one of the priority naonal thrusts of the state. ACT-CIS Partylist takes cognizance of the harsh reality that it is not enough that Filipino families should be able to eat three (3) mes a day. Every Filipino deserves to exercise his or her basic rights in order to fully ulize all the opportunies before him or her. With this in mind, ACT-CIS Partylist connues to become steadfast in craing legislaons that are for the benet of the poor. Proper funeral, although not expressly provided in law, shall also be considered as a basic right of every human being. However, prices of funeral and burial services remain exorbitant, which results to poor families disregarding the commemoraon of death as it comes with a hey price. ACT-CIS Partylist hears and comprehends all the grievances of every Filipino, resulng to the Partylist’s proposal of a House Bill Granng Fiy (50%) of Funeral Services to Poor Families and Free Funeral Services for Extremely Poor Families. On the other hand, ACT-CIS Partylist highly considers employment and livelihood as one of the primary modes in alleviang property. However, if the inial step in nding a job only becomes a barrier to indigent Filipinos, then their full potenal is not ulized—such wasted potenal that will enable every Filipino to fend for the basic necessies of his/her family. Realizing that dole outs and assistance are not only the means to exculpate poverty, ACT-CIS Partylist emphasizes the power of policymaking in geng rid of the barrier in the inial step of employment. ACT-CIS is among the rst to le the Pre-Employment Assistance Bill which seeks to grant discounts on pre-employment cercaons and clearances from various government agencies—providing a head start for indigent job seekers and fresh graduates. KAKAMPI NG MGA MAHIHIRAPKAKAMPI SA PAGBABAGO CREATING MORE ALLIES FORWARDCertified Most Sustainable and Liveable District204
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable ProvincePROVINCE OF ILOCOS NORTEHON. MATTHEW JOSEPH MARCOS MANOTOCGOVERNORIlocos Norte has become a prominent gure of sustainability in the country. The province’s commitment to harnessing wind, solar, and hydro energies is reected in its monicker, the “Renewable Energy Capital of Southeast Asia.” It goes beyond this by also being deeply commied to establishing “green” infrastructure and promong eco-friendly pracces. This dedicaon of the province is not just about preserving the quality of its environment but also about acknowledging the importance of sustainability as it strives for greater developments. Over the years, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), under the leadership of Governor Mahew Marcos Manotoc, has developed and implemented programs and projects that aim to transform and streamline Ilocos Norte’s energy ulizaon landscape. PGIN’s dedicaon to renewable energy is not limited to power generaon; it encompasses agriculture, health, tourism, and infrastructure development iniaves. Ilocos Norte is widely known for its abundant agriculture – the economic powerhouse and the lifeblood of the province, as farming, shing, and livestock raising are the primary livelihoods of Ilokanos. The provincial government has sustained its commitment to providing stable and reliable energy access for irrigaon and other farming operaons by establishing sustainable agricultural infrastructure projects to increase farm producvity and ensure food security.205
At present, Ilocos Norte has completed 83 farm-to-market road projects, constructed 153 units of small farm reservoirs, and established 13 solar-powered irrigaon systems, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, such as diesel generators, for irrigaon. This iniave of the provincial government helps cut greenhouse gas emissions and migates climate change, aligning with global eorts to reduce carbon footprints in agriculture. Adding support to the irrigaon systems, PGIN has also established 20 mul-purpose drying pavements in various towns of the province to provide local farmers with a designated and reliable space for drying crops, improving the post-harvest process, reducing crop spoilage, and increasing the overall quality of produce. To further improve the healthcare system of the province, Ilocos Norte has already completed the new outpaent department building at Governor Roque B. Ablan Sr. Memorial Hospital (GRBASMH), the expansion of the dialysis building at Ilocos Norte’s agship hospital is nearing compleon, and PGIN has reported its inial plans for the Solar Photovoltaic Installaon, a project that is expected to scale up the ulizaon of “clean” energy. The provincial government also intends to install solar panels and baery storage at GRBASMH, Bangui, Dingras, and Marcos district hospitals with the aim of decreasing electricity consumpon by medical instuons.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Province206
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Province207 Since the province’s hospitals require a constant and reliable energy supply, this iniave of the provincial government would ensure a stable power source, parcularly during calamity crises or natural disasters while lowering operaonal expenses and making a posive impact on the environment and the health of the Ilokano community. Addionally, Ilocos Norte is home to the largest wind farm in the Philippines, making it a pioneer in the naon’s wind energy sector. The province also has the rst wind project nominated for the Philippine government’s Feed-in-Tarif incenve scheme, a policy supporng renewable power generaon development. The Bangui Windmills and the Burgos and Pagudpud Wind Farms can produce up to a maximum total generang capacity of 351 MW. The provincial government connues to strengthen its eorts in increasing investments in renewable energy for a more sustainable province by partnering with various renewable energy corporaons, including AC Energy-Bayog Wind Project, the Nuevo Solar Energy Corporaon, the Keeners Group, and Aboiz Power. Meanwhile, the province’s terrain and coastal areas are perfect for eco-adventure and recreaonal acvies, including cable park or treetop adventure, camping, glamping, diving, kitesurng, and surng, among others.In 2022, the Department of Tourism, in partnership with PGIN, established a pioneering tourist rest area in Pagudpud, improved the trail and facilies at Tanap Avis Falls, and added new art installaons in the Ilocos Norte Paoay Sand Dunes, namely the “Reecon of Rebirth” and a solar-powered cairn to boost the tourism industry of the province, enrich the life of Ilokanos, and improve the quality of the environment.Ilocos Norte has also started the construcon of the Ilocos Norte Sports Instute and Research, signifying its dedicaon to fostering a sports community, and the construcon of the Ilocos Norte Central Terminal Hub and Parking Building will streamline mobility in the province.
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Province208 On the other hand, Ilocos Norte is nearing its compleon of the “Big 3” projects, namely the renovaon of the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium, the expansion of the Provincial Capitol Building, and the construcon of the Dap-ayan Commercial Building. In line with the commitment of Ilocos Norte to renewable energy, the provincial government also plans to install solar power and baery storage in these building projects, which signies a transformave shi towards cleaner, more sustainable energy soluons beneng both the present and future generaons. Ilocos Norte’s relentless commitment to sustainability across various sectors is an inspiring example for regions seeking to address environmental challenges and foster responsible pracces. The province’s holisc approach, which comprises renewable energy, environmental conservaon, community engagement, and educaonal outreach, underscores its dedicaon to building a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. Ilocos Norte’s journey toward sustainability is a testament to the power of collecve acon. The province has demonstrated that environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand with economic progress through proacve government, involved cizens, and thriving partnerships.
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable MunicipalityMUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF SANTA MARIA, ISABELAHON. HILARIO G. PAGAUITANMUNICIPAL MAYOR209Color, power, bravery, inspiraon, the journey of humble beginnings and connuing development, the chapter of beauty, resilience and history. Grounded on the ideals of honest and transparent governance, the municipality under the leadership of the Honorable Mayor Hilario G. Pagauitan was able to further its dynamic progress and sustainability through the support of its people and strong linkages both from the local and naonal government and various private stakeholders. Capitalizing on its people and proper ulizaon of resources, in a short span of years, the Municipality slowly recovered the trust of its people, realigned expenditure priories, encouraged producvity-enhancing investments, facilitated economic growth, extended educaonal assistance, enhanced the healthcare system, strengthened resiliency amid adversaries, increased agricultural and tourism possibilies and advocated for every Marian most especially the vulnerable and marginalized ones.ON POVERTY ALLEVIATION By protecng the interests of local stakeholders and implemenng administrave governance principles of accountability, responsibility, eciency, and coherence, the Municipality of Santa Maria achieved a sustainable breakthrough on an-poverty iniaves such as Cash for Work Program, addional job orders, strict adherence to the provision of aids to the 23 barangays of Santa Maria, community-based program such as TUPAD and Balik Probinsiya Program intended for those who are considered displaced workers , underemployed and seasonal workers who are experiencing economic hardships. Installaon of network cooperaves was turned into channels for capital and credit to small- and medium-scale enterprises such as Santa Maria Green Ladies Organizaon where local products such as muscovado from sugarcane, white corn coee, sugarcane vinegar and chili oil are being sold for livelihood. The Santa Maria’s Poery Associaon has also made its name not just in the province but around the globe. Aside from banga and other earthenware, one of the products that the century old local poery community invented was the Ceramic Water Filter.
In partnership with the Department of Science and Technology, the large non-metallic clay deposit of Santa Maria is now used as a potent material in water ltering which is considered benecial during disasters like oods where potable water is crucial. In Santa Maria, like in most of the country, agrarian reform is a sustainable poverty-reducon approach based on asset reform, or giving to the poor the ability to manage the resources required to become producve. The Local Government Unit in partnership with the Department of Agriculture also managed to provide assorted vegetable seeds and seedlings to the 23 barangays and marginal farmers. The schools both the elementary and secondary levels were recipients of seeds and seedlings to support their Gulayan sa Paaralan Program which aims to promote proper nutrion and migate hunger among learners. Recently, the Local Government Unit of Santa Maria was awarded by the DSWD Regional Oce 2 as one of the best implemenng municipality of Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan - Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS). Eecve implementaon of the said program is one of the balecry of the municipality in alleviang poverty towards sustainable development. It uses the community-driven development (CDD) approach in helping barangays or communies of targeted municipalies become empowered to achieve improved access to services and to parcipate in more inclusive local planning, budgeng, and implementaon.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality210
ON INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS One aspect that has a signicant impact on a municipality’s success is its accessibility. Roads provide regular access to the outside world and bring isolated locaons under the control of the state and other networks. Through intensive planning and consultaons, various infrastructural projects in the Municipality of Santa Maria have been materialized such as opening and concreng of barangay roads, repair and maintenance of local access roads, construcon of farm to market road, construcon of Mul-Purpose buildings and covered courts in every barangays, construcon of evacuaon centers phase 1 and phase 2, construcon of drainage canals, installaon of quaranne and isolaon facilies, improvement of Santa Maria water system, rehabilitaon of gymnasium , rehabilitaon of the old municipal hall turned into local museum , installaon of municipal building, construcon of river and ood control. In Santa Maria, there is also an investment of 500 kilowa Solar Power Plant. This pilot plant may provide power not just to the people of Santa Maria but also to the 80 percent province of enre Isabela (Cagayan Valley). Through the support of the naonal government, the under construcon of 720-lineal meters landmark bridge is seen to spur socio-economic development and increase producvity in the areas to alleviate the living condions of the populace as well as improve and provide direct access to and between outlying barangays, municipalies, and cies. It will also signicantly reduce travel me to Cordillera Administrave Region beneng about 2,751 motorists per day. Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality211
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality212 The municipality has been working towards consistent provision of reasonable, quality and aordable health care and social services to everyone regardless of age and status. Accomplishments in the following areas are evident such as regular vaccines across all ages, COVID vaccine mapping, family planning services, supplemental immunizaon acvies, oral health acvies, environmental sanitaon acvies, nutrion acvies such as distribuon of RUTF, RUSF, mulvitamins and food supplements and, trainings and seminar for healthcare personnel. Last December 2022, the municipality was awarded by the IPHO- Field Health Services for achieving 78.31% coverage of the vaccinaon target populaon. In addion, the DOH Regional Oce also acknowledged the municipality for its iniave program tled Project DREAM- H (Disaster Risk Reducon Management for Health). This department-iniated program aims to provide cung-edge trainings to everyone pertaining to emergency pracces and trauma response.ON HEALTHCARE SUPPORT SERVICES
ON SUSTAINABLE TOURISM Santa Maria has a bursng charm that aracts many travelers. Situated in the interior northwestern part of the province of Isabela, the place has a magnicent visual feast of culture, history, majesc tradions and products. But there is so much more about the travel, adventure and the relaxaon it provides. More than just a source of livelihood, banga is now exhibited as the municipality’s unique material culture, depicted through the vibrantly rich Mabbanga Fesval that is celebrated yearly every month of December, and that proudly showcases the transcendental progress of poery making into fully becoming the municipality’s cultural identy. Santa Maria takes pride for it has the one of the oldest church bell and the biggest and one of the best Convenon retreat house in region2 – The Sanctuario De San Jose. Meanwhile, the 720-lineal meters landmark bridge, with its aesthec design is seen to help boost the tourism in the province as it will be the rst of its kind in the country.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality213ON MAINTAINING PEACE AND ORDER Posive peace is linked to many other social traits that are viewed as desirable in addion to the absence of violence, such as greater economic outcomes, more resilience, beer well-being indicators, higher levels of inclusivity, and more sustainable environmental performance. The following were the iniaves of Santa Maria spearheaded by the Philippine Naonal police in upholding the peace and order within the community. Project I-POSTE (Police Outpost in the Streets for Trac Direcon and Emergencies) aims to increase police visibility, Project Booklat MULAT works on the provision of books to learners and out of school youth, feeding programs for malnourished and severely wasted children, symposium and awareness advocacies on the following issues such as an-bullying, cyber-crime, drug-related issues, violence against women and children and the like. Santa Maria Police Staon was awarded for its exemplary performance shown in the series of Simultaneous An-Criminality and Law Enforcement Operaon (SACLEO)and Unit Performance Evaluaon Rang having the highest combined rang for Class C municipality last February 2022. It is also worthy to note that currently, the 23 barangays of the municipality were declared as drug-free by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality214ON EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVESON DISASTER RESILIENCY The Municipality believed in what the old adage says “It takes a village to raise a child”. The municipality has been taking proacve steps in assisng school operaons .Such involvement is not only vital in helping learners reach their full potenals but also in assisng schools when talking about resources gaps and essenal support needed in achieving the schools mission, vision and goals. In support to this endeavor, various educaonal iniaves were in place such as provision of educaonal assistance, summer jobs, maximized and eecve distribuon of the Special Educaon Fund. Aside from this, the Local Government Unit was consistent partners of schools during Work Immersion Program. Another support extended by the LGU is the provision of transportaon for learners. To furtherly movate learners, the LGU also value also the importance of students’ achievement, in connecon to this Project HGP (Honoring Great People) was materialized, wherein the primary aim is to acknowledge the contribuons and achievements of every Marian learner. Disaster risk reducon preparedness is extremely signicant in order to escape or reduce the risk driven by any disasters. The LGU through the Municipal Disaster R i s k Reducon Council takes proacve role in migang disaster risks. Phase 1 and Phase 2 Evacuaon centers are now in place, regular conduct of symposium and earthquake and re drills in partnership with the BFP, conduct hands-only CPR training together with Rural Health Unit, respond to emergencies and procurement of 2 emergency boats . Aer disasters, the community aected have access on essenal services like food, clean water, ulies, transportaon and healthcare. The Local Government Unit of Santa Maria always sees to it that it will help in restoring the living condion of the people by rebuilding their livelihood and damaged infrastructures. Indeed, color, power, bravey, inspiraon, the journey of humble beginnings and connuing development, the chapter of beauty, resilience, and history, are all coming together, synergizing in one form – One Santa Maria towards sustainable development.
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable MunicipalityMUNICIPALITY OF CABIAO, NUEVA ECIJAENGR. RAMIL B. RIVERAMUNICIPAL MAYOR215Ramil B. Rivera grew in a modest family by his father Enrique P. Rivera Jr. and Myrna Bustamante in their house in San Fernando Sur, Cabiao, Nueva Ecija. His father has tried to send him to school however due to his recurring illness he convinced his father Enrique Rivera Sr. to support his son to take care of his studies unl he graduated as Civil Engineer in NEUST. He was employed as Project in Charge/Project Engineer in several engineering companies however due to his sheer aggressiveness and in search of beer opportunies he then established his own construcon rm though small company that have grown to its present stature as a Triple A Construcon rm. As a private cizen, he had display an utmost concerned in extending his helping hand to the disadvantage farmers and marginalized member of society by providing the needed farm support and lend his equipment if needed. During his childhood he always dreamt of, to lead his community to prosperity and progress. And in his desire to fulll his aspiraon, he embarked on entering the polical arena and run for highest posion in the municipality as mayor. His main polical plaorm is to upli the living condion of his constuency and lead the municipality to an environmentally sound and progressive community. As mayor he lay down his program of governance in the aspect of infrastructure, Financial Management, Environmental Programs, Social Welfare and Health Programs, Peace and Order & Public Safety as well on how to upli the living condion of his constuency through Employment and Livelihood Program. He also adheres to support the naonal government to curb the Drug related menace that besieges the municipality through rehabilitaon programs and intelligence gathering. He directly sponsors several scholarships to deserving students whose parents have no capacity to send them to college.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON INFRASTRUCTURE Aer his rst term (6 years) of his oce he constructed Three (4) Evacuaon Centers at Brgy. Sta. Isabel, Brgy. Bagong Sikat, Brgy. Bagong Silang and Brgy. San Fernando Sur which been recognized by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as one of the Best Evacuaon centers in the Philippines. He also constructed houses for informal selers along the river banks of Brgy. Entablado and houses for the people residing along Nabao lake, their houses were built at Brgy. Sta. Rita. NABAO LAKE FLOATING MARKET And the construcon of the NABAO LAKE FLOATING MARKET is one of his projects under his term that serves as both for livelihood and recreaonal place for his constuents.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality216
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality217CONSTRUCTION OF SENIOR CITIZENS PARKAND SENIOR CITIZENS’ HALLCONSTRUCTION OF DIALYSIS CENTERCONSTRUCTION OF MATERIAL RECOVERY (MRF)CONSTRUCTION OF TWO (2)PUBLIC MARKET BUILDINGS• Farm to market roads in various barangays• Renovaon of Slaughterhouse• Renovaon of RHU Birthing Facility• Construcon of Teacher’s Hall• Construcon of ICT Hub• Installaon of LED Street Lights (from Brgy. San Vicente to Brgy. San Fernando Norte) • Construcon of Municipal Motorpool
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality218 He saw also need the reinvigorate the nancial management to prop up and support the nancial requirements of the municipality on infrastructure, capability building, livelihood and health program, environmental protecon, rice farming, animal and poultry producon and sh producon programs as well as programs on peace and order and security. In this aspect of the mayor instuted radical reforms to increase collecon on permits, fees and licenses by reviewing all exisng polies and procedure that would enhance and facilitate the said collecon. He instuted ways to improve Real Property Taxaon by the digizaon of the Tax map and the subsequent introducon of computerizaon of Assesor’s Oce and Business Permit and Licensing Oce. In addion the municipality has addional investors like Jollibee, that will be a great help in the increase of tax revenues as well as Mang Inasal and Puregold Supermarket. Mayor Rivera sustains the program of the Social Welfare Development and one of these is the child Welfare which is a connuum of services designed to ensure that children are safe, this includes Day Care. He also strengthened the parcipaon of women in livelihood programs through the legislave funding support and augmentaon of previous budget of the Municipal Social Welfare Development funded out LCE’s budget including the informaon Educaon Communicaon campaign of Violence Against Women Program and the protecon of Children Program. Mayor Ramil B. Rivera ha an enormous respect for the elders which movate him to organize the Senior Cizen’s Welfare. He has come up with programs like gi giving every year end acvity and monetary benets that increases annually. He also constructed Senior Cizens’ Park & Senior Cizens’ Hall for their recreaonal use. He also lend his arms to Persons with Disability, through his eort, wheelchairs, quad canes and walkers where granted and distributed to qualied PWD’s. One the main focus of Mayor Rivera is to provide assistance to people in terms of securing necessies of life through the livelihood program and employment as such, he set a condion to all new business and employs at least 40% of its workers and employees must come from the locality of Cabiao. The Municipality of Cabiao under the PESO and through the iniave Mayor Rivera, funded skills training, & livelihood program and employment assistance through its PESO department. Agricultural Support Services such as distribuon of seeds under Crop Producon Service were also supported by Mayor Rivera in cooperaon with the Department of Agriculture, total 510 farmers from the Municipality of Cabiao beneted from this Agricultural Service. He also allocated funds for Agricultural skills trainings and seminars to improve the producvity of farmers living in Cabiao, this will increase the producon of crops which is one of the primary livelihood of the majority of the residents living in Cabiao which has a majority of Agricultural areas. He also purchases farm tractors to help farmers lessen their expenses in terms of machinery needs. The municipality let farmers use farm tractors for free.Purchased Twe nty Four (24) New Ambulance for all the barangays in the municipality.Purchased Dump Trucks and Heavy Equipments In line with the naonal government program on environmental protecon, the mayor through Sangguniang Bayan have acquired property and construct a Central Municipal Recovery Facility (MRF) and mandated all the Barangay to provide their own Material Recovery Facility to enhance collecon. In an eort to follow the said mandate of RA 9003, Mayor Ramil has negoated with the Metro Clark Corporaon for the dumping of our residual waste in their area in Clark.FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM SOCIAL WELFARE AND HEALTH PROGRAMECONOMIC PROGRAMOTHER PROJECTSENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable MunicipalityGOVERNMENT OF GENERAL EMILIO AGUINALDO, CAVITEHON. DENNIS M. GLEANMUNICIPAL MAYOR219Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo (GEA), formerly known as Bailen, under the eighth legislave district of Cavite is a h class Municipality located in the upland town of Cavite province. The town is an Agri Eco-Tourism place, located at 66 km south of Metro Manila. Covering a total land area of 4,259.70 hectares, encompassed of 14 dynamic barangays and 24,000 patrioc Baileños. The Municipality of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo is also the home of the famous Tala River and Malibic-libic Falls and other river and streams which has been the source of aracon and unique experience in this Municipality, oering spectacular natural sengs, recreaonal opportunies and amazing waterfront landscapes. Bailen reminds us of modern-day Pandora (haven place at Avatar movie) of Cavite. A town that seeks radical changes without compromising the beauty and opmum of the nature. The Municipality caters a sustainable and livable room for every Baileños, showing no record of squaer occupying the said promise land and labeled as a Drug-Free municipality in the highly urbanized province of Cavite. Bailen is a haven of tranquility to everyone who seeks peace and calmness in this fast paced and changing mes. The Municipality caters a sustainable and livable room for every Baileños, showing no record of squaer occupying the said promise land and labeled as a Drug-Free municipality in the highly urbanized province of Cavite. Bailen is a haven of tranquility to everyone who seeks peace and calmness in this fast paced and changing mes.
Despite our best local products and beauful desnaons, The Baileños, our people is our most valuable asset. It runs in our genes and tradions to be welcoming and accommodang. It is easy to befriend a local, learn their culture, integrate with the community. Aside from being a safe refuge, Bailen is also well-known to be a home of unsung heroes: Home town of Excellent Uniform personnel’s BGEN. VINCENT B. INCOGNITO Appointed: 710th SPOW WING COMMANDER, PAF Home of Achievers: 26TH World Championships of Performing Arts1. MOIRA BEATRICE MALIMBAN (Senior Modeling Category) Award: Gold (Grand Finalist)2. NAYLA FRANCESCA LOUISE MALIMBAN(Vocals & Senior Modeling Category)Award: Lan Song Category (Division Champion of the World)Miss Filipina Teen Internaonal 20221. Ms. Ceeja Minell De LumenAward: Miss Teen Filipina Internaonal TitleHome of Inspiring Leaders 1. Camp Soularia, Sito Cubao, Brgy. KabulusanHome of Mav’s Phenomenal BasketballCertified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality220
WHAT HAD BEEN ACHIEVED: The exemplar leadership of Hon. Dennis Mojica Glean spearheaded the call of changes. Mayor Glean xed the focus of the municipality as he became the Local Chief Execuve. He strives for an eecve and ecient leadership that jump-start the growth of the economy. -Top in dynamism). He goes all-out and builds bridges instead of barriers to meet the dreamt progress for his constuents. -Trapiche Bridge He sets eminence in standards of his leadership to meet the opmum output of a leader. Mayor Glean became the catalyst of change that bid for a more compeve and more holisc service to every Baileños . -SGLG / Heath Awards.He seeks programs oered by the Naonal Agencies by causing allocaons to fast-track the services that the municipality can oer to his beloved people. DEVELOPMENT OF BASIC FACILITIES (AICS, Public Markets, Public Terminals Elementary Schools and hospital Ground Breaking, Landbank)Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality221 Hon. Dennis M. Glean was also awarded as one of the Honorary Local Chief Execuve of the Year during the Naon Builders and MOSILV Awards in 2022.“A leader is a dealer in hope”- Napoleon Bonaperte
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Municipality222- The town is set to become the Pepper Corn “Paminta” Capital of the Philippines.- DEVELOPMENT OF FAMOUS MALIBIC-LIBIC FALLS- DEVELOPMENT OF EAST WEST ROAD (THE GAME CHANGER TO THE ECONOMY OF THE TOWN)“GEN. EMILIO AGUINALDO-BAILEN, a peaceful and growing agri-ecotourism municipality in the Province of Cavite with progressive economy, balanced environment, self-reliant community, disciplined, healthy and God-fearing citizenry governed by pro-active leaders.”“Govern the citizens with integrity, unity and humility guided by the Almighty God towards living in a habitable community.”WHAT’S NEW FOR BAGONG BAILEN:VISION STATEMENTMISSION STATEMENT
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable BarangayBARANGAY PANAY, GOVERNMENT OF SANTA MARCELA, APAYAOHON. RIZZA TESALONA GUIANGPUNONG BARANGAYStepping out of the shadows of her husband, Ms. Rizza Tesalona-Guiang carved her own path, leading her humble barangay into a model other LGUs can follow. A simple housewife before she entered polics, she learned the ropes of public service from her husband who became the leader of their barangay, before taking up a bigger role in a higher government posion. What she lacked in experience, she made up with her big heart for public service as she competently and resourcefully fullled her role as Punong Batangay and LnB President of Barangay Panay in the relavely quiet corner of Apayao province, the town of Sta. Marcela. Slowly but surely Rising to the posion via the overwhelming support of her barangay in 2018, when she was elected as Punong Barangay unopposed, Ms. Tesalona-Guiang admits that she had to take things slow as she acclimazes to her new role. She discovered that leading a community and raising a family have many similaries than what one would think. As a mother, she knows what her people needs and how to grant them. Ms. Tesalona-Guiang started with the foundaons. To be able to eciently serve her barangay, she focused rst on improving her oce’s managerial strategies. With emphasis on “Good Governance,” this paved the way to more projects even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. 223
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay224 Inclusion and collaboraon Adming her limited experience in public service, she did not shy away from learning from others. She did not let her being a newcomer make her an outsider. She sought advice and guidance from higher government agencies, especially from the Department of Interior and Local Government or DILG. She then slowly made her way up, giving her humble barangay the representaon it needs in the municipal level, to the provinicial government, and even to the naonal line agencies. Her perseverance to learn more and to etch her own fate paid o as she secured developmental projects. The neophyte polician that she is, she understood that her mission is to rst establish her oce’s reputaon and produce eecve and honest leaders. With emphasis on inclusion and collaboraon, she started with formalizing the regular conduct of regular and special sessions so that she can hear the voice of the ordinary people. She also set meengs and consultaons with stakeholders from other sectors and strengthened the foundaons of her oce with the Women’s Welfare Organizaon (WWO), the Farmer’s Organizaon, the Youth Organizaon, and the Indigenous People (IP). Transparent leadership above all To win the condence of her constuency and the respect of her colleagues, she has made it her personal crusade to lead with honesty. From making the nancial status of her barangay transparent to honestly disclosing the fund allocaon and accomplishments, she quickly became known as a leader with a pure heart of service for her kababayans. Despite being a relavely newcomer in the scene, she earned the respect and trust of her counterparts and was elected as President of the Liga ng mga Barangay. There, she made it a point to have an honest and organized Bids and Awards Commiee to be able to provide the social services her barangay needs.
Standing up to the Challenges The municipality of Sta. Marcela is situated at the northeastern-most edge of the province, and Barangay Panay is even more remote – one of the most far-ung barangays in their town as a maer of fact – with no roads and bridges to connect most communies. With scarce funding and virtually non-existent infrastructure, leading a barangay like Panay is no easy task. Despite this, Ms. Tesalona-Guiang is unfazed. “God is above all things and He controls everything,” the lady Punong Barangay would hold on to. As she has now established her reputaon as a competent, trust-worthy, and ecient public servant, she has earned the support of Governor Eleanor Bulut-Begtang and Rep Elias Bulut, Jr. Their support bore fruits such as infrastructure projects. Among these projects are the construcon of a concrete bridge crossing Lawigan creek, the improvement of the mul-purpose gymnasium, the construcon of quaranne checkpoint with restrooms and water supply, the installaon of street lights along barangay roads, the construcon of road wall protecon at Purok 1, and improvement of barangay roads which are now gravel roads between Puroks 3 and 4. In such a short span of me as a public servant, she has proven that honest and ecient public service can be translated to the actual improvement to the lives of her kababayans.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay225
Her term also saw the beacaon and regreening of barangay roads with sustainability in mind, the construcon of Child Development Center, Gymnasium (Evacuaon Center), New Bridges and improvement of various community parks, and implementaon of signicant programs that led to the barangay’s peace and order. They successfully bagged the “Lupon Tagapamayapa Incenve Award” Nominee for three (3) consecuve years from 2021 to 2023 and Cered Zero Defacaon (Grade 1 Status) in 2022. Barangay Panay’s collecve eorts was also recognized as they were awarded as the Cleanest and Greenest Barangay, Best Implementer on Solid Waste Management, Best Implementer in Peace and Order Programs as Peaceful Barangay, Best in Sanitaon and Best in Barangay Rabies Program Implementer among all the barangays in Sta. Marcela for four consecuve years from 2020 to 2023. To top it all, Barangay Panay earned the Naonal Level recognion of Seal of Good Local Governance in the Barangay Level in 2021 and the latest LGU “TARNAW”Awards 2023. But more than the awards and recognions, Ms. Tesalona-Guiang’s most fullling achievement is to bring beerment to the people of her barangay. She is the rst Punong Barangay to enact a barangay ordinance to mandate all households to construct sanitary toilets, distribung toilet bowls with the help of the municipal government. They also formulated an ecient solid waste management plan and made advancements in prevenng dengue through “Oplan Taob/Yugyug.” To address unemployment, she has been in coordinaon with dierent government agencies and in the middle of the pandemic, the Barangay was able to distribute relief goods and food packs to every family during the lockdowns, despite their meager funds. She has also put a premium in educaon, throwing support to schools with their programs and projects. Her oce also provided nancial assistance to students for their school supplies and empowered the youth through civic acvies iniated by the Sangguniang Kabataan. Some would dismiss a former housewife when it comes to public service, but Ms. Tesalona-Guiang is a testament that when you have a good heart and a yearning for sincere and honest public service, competency and eciency will follow surely follow.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay226
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable BarangayBARANGAY SAN ANTONIO VILLAGE, MAKATI CITYHON. RESTITUTO E. CAJESBARANGAY CAPTAINA Very Figure from the humble Village of Barangay San Antonio, Maka City, Restuto E. Cajes, known fondly as “Resty” by all his friends, Colleagues, and constuents, had a humble Beginning as if it’s a story from a book, He Had Janitorial Work as a College student to support himself in back in 1988 at the University of Bohol while taking an Accounng Major. He kept persevering unl in 1994, he began his career in Public Service in When hired as a coordinator of Maka Acon Center assigned on the assistance of people concerning the Maka Yellow Cards (Free Health Care). His Natural Friendly Personality greatly Helped him in his work and le a mark on each person he talked with as he was very funny, very sincere and very Caring to the Issues and Concerns of the people he interacted with, This connued even aer he became the coordinator of Barangay San Antonio under Community Development under Kagawad Wilma Ferrera, one of his role models in public Service. Neighborhood Associaons were founded through the eorts of him and his Kagawad, for years, even aer working under a new Kagawad, he organized projects to reach more people, he organized the house numbers and conducted census and House to House proling that later laid a foundaon on the upcoming acvies of the Barangay in the future, all of these interacons, together with his humorous, Kindhearted and very Approachable personality connue leaving a mark to the hearts of people simply just by being a hardworking employee and being sincere to his work. He chats with them and listens to them, and know each household by heart throughout the Barangay. Lile did he know at the me that these small talks will have a very huge impact in the in the upcoming elecon. Because aer working for almost 10 years as an employee, Resty Cajes, with no fortune, no nancer of any sort, and no polical backings, decided to run for Kagawad. Not aiming high, he did things simple and he just laid out plaorms during the campaign, it’s just as if he sll an employee of the Barangay. 227
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay228 But his humility, his sincerity, and the impression that he le from the past years catapulted him to thee rst place Kagawad for 2 terms, with his reputaon, he was assigned on the commiee of Social Services for his rst term and he was able to connue at what he is good at, which is being friendly and being Helpful. The same sincerity helped him when nally decided to run for the Posion of Barangay Chairman, and he won for 2 consecuve terms. As a Barangay Kagawad, under the commiee of Social Services, he made sure that the Barangay Cizen will get the benets they deserve, he took care and assisted people for their Yellow Cards, Phil health Card and Senior Cards, as he informed people on related maers. Although it is a single commiee, it was hard at the me given that technology wasn’t as present as it is now, and given that health benet cards it was fairly new to people at the me. PWD and Senior Cizens need assistance mostly, making them the focus of Resty Cajes, even making the Kagawad reach out to them, going house to house and such. On his second term, under the Livelihood Commiee, he focused on Implementaon of trainings that involves basic livelihood acvies such as Cooking, Baking and planng, Cooking involves the hands-on training with updated database, and very skilled trainers, Baking was heavily sought out by mothers and Grandmothers providing them with recipe and tools. Surprisingly, planng was chosen by men of all ages. some of it were also projects that involved Dancing and other fun acvies.
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay229 As Barangay Chairman, his focus is achieving long term goals and focusing on performance of each commiee of the Barangay, he ulized the Barangay Budget in ways that can help people nancially and help them be producve. stay at home mothers were hired as “Nanay Patrollers” patrolling at Aer school Hours to prevent accidents and other bad things at those few hours. MASA MASID project-based employees are another example where a simple cizen is authorized to report if something goes wrong inside the barangay to keep peace and make trouble makers weary of the barangay’s presence on every corner of the streets. Barangay San Antonio was declared and Cered Drug-Free by PDEA in 2022 under Barangay Chairman Resty Cajes, they focused heavily on intelligence reports before taking acon carefully, Coordinaon and Proper reports dealing with the subject were submied properly in coordinaon with the police department. Was 2nd place in best performing Barangay An-Drug Abuse Council in 2022, as in general, drug related acvies were heavily focused on in terms of preparaon and being persistent. Under BADAC care rehabilitang were given dues and responsibilies for them to be producve and be involved and let them focus on improving themselves as a distracon to illegal drugs and other Vices. Barangay with Most Improved Creek, (Gawad Taga-Ilog 2023) the creek under his term was heavily focused, materials and essenal personnel were provided to start the long-term goal. The creek was monitored and given priority for the year, the improvements all throughout the year was steady and was crowned as the “most improved estero” in the naonal compeon. 2018 and 2019 awarded as best Lupon Tagapamayapa, and was awarded three hundred thousand Pesos PHP. The lupong tagapamayapa, under the direcon of Barangay Chairman Resty Cajes adapted an approach similar to his roots, which is Kind and Caring. Cases were seled with proper procedures and provided with proper reports.
There were also notable worth menoning where Barangay San Antonio aained 3rd Place in 2016 and 4th place in 2016 as the cleanest Barangay. And right now, Barangay are also nominated for 2023 recognion as Clean and Green projects are also heavily supported and encouraged by the Chairman Resty Cajes through the help of Department of Environmental Services (DES). They provide soil and other essenal materials like seeds to help encourage and support greening projects inside Barangay San Antonio Maka - Even with all these awards and recognion received by the Barangay under the Direcon and guidance of Restuto E. Cajes, he does not plan to stop and want to connue to improve the performance of the commiee in the Barangay, Mistakes that were made are corrected, planning are done more carefully as me goes by and he connue to appoint more and more qualied personnel fore the barangay services. There are other commiee that need improvements, and with his remaining me in the Barangay, he will focus on those subject departments. He will try to get reward as presgious as the Drug Clear Recognion cered by the DILG. Resty Cajes with His Humble Roots carried on never changing who he was when was only starng out as a public servant. From being a humble coordinator to becoming a prominent gure of Barangay Chairman, one of the things that never changed in him is his Humility. On some other mes it may not be good that he is not inmidang at all, but most of the me, his very approachable aura helps people more than it doesn’t. as of the moment, right now he is planning to run for his 3rd term. And bring a proper closure to all his plans all throughout his me as the barangay chairman of barangay san Antonio Maka. He will connue to set long term goals where it will worth the eort in the end. The people who supported him since early 2000 will sure sll support him as his good and sincere deed were etched in their hearts and minds already. With all these things, the biggest thing about Barangay Chairman Restuto E. Cajes is his ability to inspire people, he proves that with sheer determinaon and kind and sincere heart, you can become someone that people will follow. You will become someone that people will remember for all their life just by showing them kindness and Sincerity. We don’t know exactly how many people he helped through the free health care cards he assisted them, but from his long years in the public service, we can conclude that these are the same people that brought him to his seat as a number one Kagawad and Barangay Chairman that made history in Barangay San Antonio Maka.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay230
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable BarangayBARANGAY STA. CRUZ, ANTIPOLO CITYHON. CIRILO “BEBOT” A. TENORIOPUNONG BARANGAYThe Barangay focuses on realigning the budget and resources in response to solving immediate issues like the COVID pandemic. The barangay put emphasis on mobilizing the crowd during lockdown, we have provided informaon campaigns about the how’s and what’s of COVID and we have purchased goods and items for the needy, we have provided AYUDA and coordinates connuously with the DOH, PNP and other agencies to properly implement our programs like securing of permits to travel, providing health cercates, face mask, PPE and disinfecon to high risk areas, working with contact tracing up unl the provision of vaccines among our residents including the rst shots of vaccines to providing boosters for all. It was a great and unforeseen challenge that test my rst year of service but with the help of the Barangay Council, we have overcome it. It was a great news that the spread of COVID-19 is decreasing already. At this moment, the barangay started on fullling the projects and programs that was le behind because of the crisis of the pandemic. Some of it was providing streetlights through powered Solar lights. It was a big help to our residents. In resolving concerns on Solid Waste Management, we have ulized three trucks that was used to collect garbage regularly. One of the goals of the barangay is also to have a sustainable community where we encourage our residents to plant produce in their vacant lots and through Programang HAPAG where we have been awarded for the past years now. We have urge and promote the idea of urban planng I houses so they can ulize their vacant lots in plang vegetables or produce. 231
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay232 We are also pung our concerns in the aspect of health, we have doctors, nurses and denst who gives free consultaon and services to our residents. Thousands of our residents beneted from our health services. Yearly, we conduct medical services like Operaon Tuli, Katarata, X-ray providing vaccines for the babies and toddlers and other medical services. The health Center provides services to residents. BHW, BNS and Nurses are going from house to house to vaccinate the children in their respecve houses so that they don’t have to go to the center to get vaccinated.
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay233 Our service is connually improving and doing our best, OUR BDRRMO was also recognized in response to calamity and disaster which is immediate and ecient. Our ambulance is consistent in providing services as well as responding to re incidents. The evacuaon centers are also prepared in case there will be ashoods and landslides. Moreover, in the aspect of Peace and Order, we have pledged our commitment in sustaining the peace and order in our community. The cases of killing and crimes drops. The concern of drug abused decreases and our community was declared DRUG CLEARED. We have connuous programs to stop and ght against drug abused. We have partnered with PNP and PDEA to stop Drug abused and to arrest those who are proven to be “users and pushers” of this harmful substance. We are working our partnerships well to help our residents who are vicms of drug abused to have a normal life again through rehabilitaon programs. The barangay has a livelihood program that helps residents learn dress making or making bayong bags and other things that they can earn and help with their daily needs. The barangay has many programs implemented such as DOLE TUPAD to help residents in need. The barangay has a Cleaning Task Force that cleans the creek sides. This is the Solid Waste Management Program that is included in the programs implemented by the barangay.
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay234 The barangay has provided a venue for people to parcipate in local governance and decision-making. It has also served as a plaorm for community-driven development, with the barangay council working closely with community members to idenfy and address local needs. Our roads are a mechanism to promote the development of our barangay, thus, we kept it clean and free from obstrucon through road clearing operaon with the help our local government. We have greatly valued the educaon of our learners by giving educaonal assistance and providing scholarships to deserving and diligent learners of our barangay. The peace and order of our Barangay is established and this year, 2023, we will have a free and democrac elecon. All those who wanted to serve and be a candidate are welcome to be part of the candidacy without worrying for their security. I am reassuring that the elecon is what the people of this community wants. I am hoping that what I have contributed in the community will sll progress and be sustained in the coming years to come.
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable BarangayBARANGAY EAST REMBO, MAKATI CITYHON. THELMA P. RAMIREZBARANGAY CAPTAINWhen Barangay Captain Thelma Ramirez rst took over the barangay hall of East Rembo in 2018, the humble Barangay, desperately needed to modernize itself to be able to provide adequate services to its constuents. Brgy. Capt. Ramirez is not hesitant to admit that back then, their oces were very cramped and when she served as a kagawad, she was witness to how much change needed to be done. Now, fast forward some years, she’s done with her rst term and East Rembo is no longer the quaint lile barangay it was before. Gone were the trash liering the streets or the pey men loitering the streets. Barangay East Rembo is now a model barangay that should be emulated not just by Maka and Taguig and Metro Manila. Through her example, Brgy. Capt. Ramirez and her reliable team were able to make East Rembo into a barangay that everyone in the Philippines should take noce of.One of the biggest undertakings that Ramirez pursued in oce was seng up an annex building that could house addional facilies and services for the East Rembo residents. Because of their inial humble barangay hall, it was useless to acquire other gadgets and equipment because the facilies would not be able to handle all these things. So the new building was a desperate need that had to be fullled.235STEPPING INTOMODERNIZATION GROWTH
Thankfully, she was able to get help for the construcon of the facility, which was funded by Congressman Luis Campos through DPWH. It stands proudly at the side of the barangay hall, a shining testament to East Rembo’s ascent into a more modern approach towards public service. Aside from the infrastructure, East Rembo also now has CCTV cameras strategically placed all over the barangay which is also part of Brgy. Capt. Ramirez’s connued advocacy towards public safety. And as everyone in town can aest, East Rembo is now safer because of these measures. In fact, in 2019 and 2022, The Barangay Council for The Protecon of Children recognized East Rembo as one of the safest and most child-friendly barangays in the Philippines.In addion, the installaon of the LED billboard in East Rembo has been a vital part of informaon disseminaon. Through this valuable asset, the barangay ocials are able to announce crucial news and informaon that greatly help the residents. And it should be noted, also, that the barangay hall is able to ulize social media properly creang a great venue for interacon between residents.MORE THAN JUST CLEANAside from maintaining order, it can be said that Brgy. Capt. Ramirez’s other key projects for East Rembo revolve around creang a cleaner and more sustainable community for the residents. She recalls a me when she was a child and even the sewage of East Rembo was clean enough for sh to swim in and thrive. And for her, going back to this type of lifestyle should not just be a recollecon that seems fantasc to young people nowadays. Indeed, she has proven her words as validated by the various awards and citaons received by Brgy. East Rembo from 2019 to the present day.No less than the Department of Natural Resources awarded East Rembo as a model barangay in 2019, cing the place as one of the model barangays in the Philippines as well as one of the cleanest and greenest LGUs. If that wasn’t enough, East Rembo is also cited by the Department of Environmental Services as one of the Cleanest and Greenest Barangays, proving without a doubt that East Rembo is serious about keeping its place clean for future generaons. They are so serious, in fact, that during garbage collecon, people from the barangay hall keep watch of the trucks and the residents to make sure that trash has been properly segregated and nothing out-of-the-ordinary is mixed in with the type of trash that is supposed to be collected for that day.Incenves are also given for some segregaon projects which allow residents to receive rice and other goods in exchange for their trash. And so far, this has been quite eecve in reducing the waste in the barangay. The oce of Ramirez has also experimented with using technology to recycle garbage into usable byproducts such as bricks and what have you, though these are sll projects that are in their infancy stage. Once funconal, though, this will prove to be a very big step towards sustainability in East Rembo.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay236
FREE FROM DRUGSIn terms of safety, can residents really feel they are safe if illegal drugs and narcocs are being distributed in their town? For East Rembo residents, though, this is not a big concern because various oces have cited and awarded their barangay as a place that acvely combats and eradicates any and all forms of drugs in their streets. Just recently, in 2022, the Associaon of An-Drug Abuse Coalions In The Philippines awarded East Rembo again for parcipang in training for establishing eecve an-drug pracces. In 2021, the Maka An-Drug Abuse Council, also cited East Rembo for its parcipaon in Drug Abuse Prevenon and Control Week, which is a very big project for the city. And just in 2023, East Rembo received several awards and citaons from the Maka City Police Staon, the Maka An-Drug Abuse Council, and the Maka Police SPPD-NCRPO for Brgy. Capt. Ramirez’ campaigns against illegal drugs. The barangay hall is also very proud of the fact that they have a zero-tolerance policy against drug abusers in their oces. Any employee that has been caught will be subject for terminaon and will go to voluntary rehabilitaon if he or she wishes to get his or her job back.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay237
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Barangay238A FIRST FOR EAST REMBOAnd just as icing on her proverbial career cake, Brgy Capt. Ramirez’ oce received a ZERO Noce of Disallowance in the First and Second Quarter of 2023 from the Commission on Audit (COA) in 2023. No other barangay captain in East Rembo history can claim to have achieved this feat as it is the rst ever for the barangay. Though this may be her rst rodeo as a barangay captain, Kapitana Thelma is proving that she’s serious about public service. It should be noted that she also does not come from a polical clan nor does she have any close relaves in public oce, making her achievements all the more amazing, given how the polical landscape in the Philippines can be at mes.It is clear that Barangay East Rembo is poised for a promising future. But it’s not just because of the foundaon set by Brgy. Capt. Ramirez in the past years. Sure, the next steps towards modernizaon and a greener future are there and will be easier to take than previous years but it’s because of the unreplicable motherly care that Brgy. Capt. Ramirez has that East Rembo is undergoing a revoluon toward becoming a place that any and all Filipino cizens would love to live in.
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable ResortEUREKA RESORTS, INC.GREEN INITIATIVES FORRESPONSIBLE CONSTRUCTION:MS. GEMMALYN CROSBYPRESIDENT, EUREKA RESORTS, INC.In the prisne landscapes of El Nido, the EcoTown El Nido, project by El Nido Beach, developed by Eureka Resorts, emerges as a pioneering iniave, epitomizing the seamless integraon of green iniaves, aesthec brilliance, and innovave service. This narrave meculously outlines the project’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals, underscoring its commitment to fostering a smarter, sustainable, and greener community, resonang with the theme “Ensure, Promote the Integraon and the Principles of Smarter, Sustainable and Greener Community.” El Nido Beach’s commitment to responsible construcon extends beyond its projects’ breathtaking aesthecs. The philosophy of “Design with a Purpose” guides every aspect of the development, ensuring that every decision aligns with sustainability goals. One notable achievement is the innovave use of geocells in land development and road construcon. Geocells, made from recycled materials, have emerged as a game-changer in construcon. They signicantly reduce CO2 emissions by 20% compared to tradional construcon methods. Furthermore, they lower construcon costs by 20%, making the project not only environmentally responsible but also nancially prudent.These geocells are engineered to provide sness and creep resistance, ideal for stabilizing roads on so soils. By prevenng soil erosion and enhancing road stability, they reduce maintenance costs and contribute to the long-term sustainability of EcoTown’s infrastructure. 239
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Resort240 El Nido Beach is commied to minimizing environmental impact throughout the construcon and operaonal phases. Employing strategies such as the use of prefabricated concrete and galvanized steel structures ensures swi assembly with zero erosion or polluon issues, highlighng the project’s dedicaon to environmental preservaon. Our innovave approach further extends to, where waste materials nd new life. Plywood and stone waste are repurposed into mulch and gravel, respecvely, epitomizing the project’s circular economy ethos. This meculous approach to waste management ensures all construcon waste is classied for recycling by third pares, eliminang landll disposal and contribung to a cleaner, greener environment. El Nido Beach recognizes the importance of conserving energy, and to achieve this goal, it has embraced solar energy soluons. As the project is expected to have substanal energy demands, the decision to incorporate a 5MW solar farm is both visionary and environmentally responsible. This solar energy iniave aligns perfectly with the broader goal of combang climate change and promong clean energy. Not only it reduces reliance on non-renewable energy sources but also signicantly contributes to the reducon of greenhouse gas emissions. The properes’ design incorporates 10mm tempered glass, opmizing energy eciency by considering the solar heat gain coecient. This crucial element is essenal for reducing energy consumpon and ensuring the well-being of the local avian populaon. Moreover, the extensive deployment of LED lighng, occupancy sensors in common areas, and low-E glass windows collecvely contribute to substanal energy conservaon, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainable energy use.ENERGY CONSERVATION AND EFFICIENCY:
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Resort241SUPPORTING THE CAMPAIGN ON SINGLE-USE PLASTIC:CHAMPIONING A SUSTAINABLE FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN:ADVOCATING A CIRCULAR ECONOMY:AESTHETICS AND SERVICE INNOVATION: In line with the global movement to reduce single-use plascs, El Nido Beach acvely supports the campaign against single-use plascs. We understand that these seemingly innocuous items have severe environmental consequences. By acvely supporng the campaign against single-use plascs, the development takes a bold step towards environmental responsibility. At El Nido Beach we have made a conscious shi towards biodegradable alternaves, replacing plasc boled water with sustainable opons. This iniave not only reduces the demand for single-use plascs but also sends a clear message about the importance of responsible consumpon. Our commitment to reducing plasc waste contributes to a cleaner environment and healthier oceans, aligning with our broader goals of sustainability and eco-friendliness. El Nido Beach recognizes that sustainability extends beyond infrastructure and energy. We embrace a holisc approach that includes supporng local farmers and building a sustainable food supply chain. Through collaboraon with local farming experts and neighboring landowners, we are acvely converng nearby lands into producve farms. These farms will yield crops to meet the food consumpon needs of the integrated hotels, neighboring establishments, and residents. This iniave not only promotes food security but also provides local farmers with a stable source of income. Addionally, El Nido Beach is construcng food sheds and facilitang contracted farming arrangements. This mulfaceted approach fosters economic growth, ensures food sustainability, and strengthens the bond between the development and the local community. El Nido Beach’s commitment to a circular economy is evident in its collaboraon with local farmers. The iniave to convert neighboring lands into farms represents a signicant step towards a more sustainable and self-sucient community.By providing infrastructure support, such as water resources, and facilitang cooperaon for contracted farming, we ensure that local farmers benet from a steady source of income. This approach not only supports the local economy but also minimizes the environmental impact of transporng food over long distances. The circular economy iniaves are a testament to our commitment to holisc sustainability, where economic, environmental, and community well-being are intricately intertwined. Aesthecs and Service Innovaon at EcoTown El Nido extend well beyond tradional boundaries, encompassing a range of innovave features that set it apart in the realm of sustainable community development.
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Resort242 The project’s design emphasizes superior interior air quality, ulizing natural venlaon, low VOC paints, and low urea-formaldehyde adhesives and sealants. The operaonal phase will see the use of green cleaning products, underscoring its commitment to environmental and human health, ensuring visitors and residents alike bask in a healthy, vibrant environment.Design Excellence: EcoTown El Nido shines as a paragon of design excellence, featuring tree houses, overwater villas, and cliside villas that epitomize aesthec innovaon. The project’s design embraces bioclimac principles, harmonizing with the natural environment. The use of lighter colors on exteriors enhances aesthecs and energy eciency, reducing heat absorpon. These thoughul design choices showcase a profound understanding of the balance between beauty and eco-friendliness.Buery Garden: Within EcoTown El Nido’s heart, a serene buery garden will harmoniously blend nature and design. This capvang enclave will not only enchant the eye but also improve interior air quality. Visitors can nd solace in this habitat that aracts these delicate creatures, symbolizing our commitment to a healthy environment.Sustainable Shopping Center: EcoTown introduces an eco-conscious shopping center, reducing carbon emissions by 70% due to its proximity to our properes. It dramacally slashes greenhouse gas emissions from packaging waste eight-fold. This center redenes shopping with sustainability, seng an industry benchmark.Wildlife Encounters: Explore rich biodiversity at EcoTown El Nido through guided wildlife encounters, fostering a deep connecon with nature. These experiences highlight our dedicaon to preserving El Nido’s beauty.Transportaon and Accessibility: El Nido Beach priorizes eco-friendly transportaon, oering carpooling and green opons from the nearby airport. Bike lanes and EV charging staons minimize the carbon footprint, enhancing accessibility for residents and visitors.Recreaonal Acvies: EcoTown’s sustainable recreaonal oerings align with environmental goals. From the tness center, spa, buery garden to eco-friendly shopping and wildlife encounters, each acvity supports a greener future.Community Engagement and Educaon: Beyond a residenal and recreaonal project, EcoTown fosters community engagement and educaon. Residents and guests collaborate on sustainability goals, while educaon promotes awareness of environmental conservaon, enhancing the project’s social and environmental impact.
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Resort243IMPACT AND FUTURE PLANS: EcoTown El Nido is not just a project; it’s a transformave iniave, creang a ripple of posive impact. The project’s comprehensive sustainable strategies ensure a reducon in water and energy consumpon up to 50%, a signicant decrease in CO2 emissions and recycling of the construcon material waste up to 50%, contribung to the goals of responsible consumpon and producon. The project’s innovave approach is unmatched on the island, serving as a prime example for other communies, inspiring the adopon of sustainable pracces for a greener, more prosperous future. The future holds the connuaon of the construcon phase with minimal environmental impact, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability and environmental preservaon.
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Resort244SUMMARY: EcoTown El Nido is more than a mere project; it is an emblem of the seamless coexistence of opulence, sustainability, and community upliment. It promises a future that gleams with environmental consciousness, advocang not just for luxurious living but also for the promoon of good health, gender equality, and the migaon of inequalies. In sync with the global vision for sustainable communies, it serves as a beacon of hope at the heart of El Nido. Its legacy encompasses not only environmental preservaon but also the ourishing of communies and the perpetuaon of global sustainability, nurturing a world that’s beer for both current and future generaons.
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable CompanyIAM WORLDWIDEIAM Worldwide is a company commied to upgrading the quality of life – it was designed for dedicated, honest, hardworking, and self-movated people who want to build their own businesses as Independent Distributors across the globe. Our porolio oers a diverse and comprehensive range of markeng soluons, specialty products, and services aimed to drive individuals and families to nancial excellence. The company was founded by Mr. Allen Marvin Yu Eder, Ms. Aika Lorraine Uy and Ms. Joanna Mañego who are seasoned network markeng professionals and entrepreneurs. With an impeccable track record for being consistent top earners from several other markeng companies, they have both built unrelenng mul-million sales teams worldwide. Through their passion for helping individuals achieve nancial freedom and personal greatness, they have helped create more than a hundred millionaires over the years. The IAMWORLDWIDE leadershipteam has over 20 combined years of experse in the relaonship markeng industry, that they have only implemented the systems and pracces into IAMWORLDWIDE that are proven to work best.245
OurPledge At IAMWORLDWIDE, we’re not just commied to sales and markeng. We also recognize our obligaon to the world – to provide rst-class quality products to our clients, to insll an environment of connuous learning and mentoring amongst colleagues, to beer the lives of our distributors & the communies we serve, and to inspire others to do the same. This commitment of moving humanity is how we do business every single day. Mission IAMWORLDWIDE’s objecve is to enrich the lives of our customers, independent distributors, employees, and the community by providing them with the best-in-market business opportunies, and to be at the forefront of bringing world-class quality products to whomever and wherever they may be in the world.Vision IAMWORLDWIDE aims to be one of the most admired direct sales companies here and around the globe. Armed with a purpose to bring real change in our people’s total well-being including one’s health, prosperity, and balance. By living for others, we help MOVE them to improved lives whatever the situaon and no maer the circumstance. Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company246
LIVE.INSPIRE. MOVE.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company247
• Integrity First We commit to provide high quality products as zealous as protecng our reputaon. We value trustworthiness by choosing to do what is right even when no one is watching. We envision ourselves in the forefront of naon building by adhering to our government obligaons, being proponents of transparency, and to be advocates of lawful business pracces. • Empowering People As a company, we are constantly redening our objecves, expectaons, and limits. Our people are our lifeblood. We strive to create an atmosphere that appreciates, inspires, and enables everyone to transcend their potenals. And we recognize their value by ensuring them the right compensaon and providing them with the best packages the industry could oer. • Transforming Communies With a business model focused on upliing the lives of our people, we, in turn, use our talents and treasures to make a dierence to those who need it most. We believe we have a responsibility to give back to the community through our IAM HOPE FOUNDATION. Whether via sponsorships, community service, or fundraising events, we shall foster a culture of generosity - for in giving do we receive. • Shaping Spirituality, The IAMWORLDWIDE community seeks to honor God by making an impact on the lives of our independent distributors, employees, and customers. We are but His stewards of this business and that it exists for the purpose of impacng people for eternity, making sure that all we do in and through the business honors Him. • Passion for Excellence Our endeavor entails pursuing what is right, over and over again. A habituaon of demanding more of our ourselves than our customers would. Through our persistence in nding beer ways of doing what we do, and by declaring & aaining ambious goals, we set new standards in our industry even exceeding our own expectaons. We do not rest on our achievements. Rather, we passionately build on them in our personal and professional journey, wherever we may be in the world. We in IAM WORLDWIDE are dedicated to empowering the Filipino. We believe in the consistent delivery of our products and services making us “The Most Sustainable Brand in the Philippines”CORE VALUESCertified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company248
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable CompanySUNSMART SOLAR POWER TECHNOLOGY INC.JENNY LIN G. MAANO - NGAICO-FOUNDER & PRESIDENT249SunSmart Solar Power Technology, Inc. (“SUNSMART”) is well reputed in the renewable power industry’s decentralized energy market and smart green city developments on providing integrated, independent, innite decentralized and scalable i-Smart Solar Hybrid Mini Grids, i-Power Cube Micro-Ulity Power Staons and Smart AIoT Solar Streetlighng Soluons necessary to bridge the gap between unceasing Energy Demand and Environmental Challenges amidst the current economic thrive from the CoVid19 Pandemic and the need to acvely parcipate and prepare to the rising global environmental threat of Climate Change Crisis. The company has dedicated its mission to make “Living O the Grid Possible” serving the current unserved, underserved or namely the G.I.D.A.S. Geographically Isolated Disadvantaged Areas no maer how near or far. Thus, keeping with SunSmart’s E.L.E.M.E.N.T.S. of advocacy: “Elevang Livelihood, Empowering Mankind, Engaging Nature Towards Sustainability.” The company have achieved the many rsts in their industry, including being the rst to introduce integrated solar power energy, being the rst and only Solar Hybrid readily integrated with smart Arcial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) features, and the very rst to viably prove in ASIA through its recent win and esteemed recognion from ACES Asia Corporate Excellence Sustainability award, that to live o the grid is POSSIBLE. SUNSMART provides systems, soluons and services to a broad range of clients, ranging from township residences, resorts / island developments, commercial, industrial, up to parcipang with rural electric cooperaves for solar electricaon development and partnerships with Local Government Units through its parcipaon in providing Own-Use Decentralized and Scalable Solar Power Generaon Plants , EPC Investment and Development, as well as Operaons and Maintenance of its Smart Solar Hybrid Mini Grid Power Generaon and Smart Grid Distribuon Network. ~
SUNSMART posioning in entering partnership with power generaon and/or distribuon is to replace fossil fuel power generaon source such as the use of diesel generators in most islands or rural areas with its cleaner, cheaper and more convenient Solar Power Generaon Staons. As this will substanally reduce global greenhouse gas emissions to limit the global temperature increases, the company provides investment nancing modality to Electric Cooperaves and LGUs to migate climate change, strengthen resilience and enhance abilies to adapt to climate impacts. SUNSMART niche parcipaon as an alternave power generaon source will help meet energy demand surge for the coming months even years. The company marks a dynamic iniave of a shi towards a net zero emission naon. This also pave way to the implementaon of The Paris Agreement essenal to the mely achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The company known for having an extensive background in integrated and intelligent telecommunicaons its tagline “Beyond Solar” combines sustainability with resiliency factor through its Smart Solar Emergency Response and Disaster Preparedness AIoT Streetlighng soluons that can do Live or Pre-Recorded Audio Broadcast + Real Time CCTV Monitoring + Actual Weather Monitor & Forecasng + AP Wi-Fi Connecvity Hotspot + Emergency Push Buon Alarm System with Flash Warning Lights + GPS + USB or Mobile Phone Charging + Wireless Control Command Centre, for safety & security, emergency response & rescue as well as disaster preparedness, operaons & rehabilitaon eorts to be jointly undertaken by the government and the private sector. As a Solar Energy Technology Partner & Smart Green City Developer, SUNSMART believes that sustainability is not enough; rather, resiliency and adaptaon are the primary features to unanimously achieve green energy eciency, power cost reducon and environmental conservaon to future-proof economic investment developments. This will progressively entail enhancements which will lead to Smart City’s modernizaon development.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company250
PeoplePlanetProgress Purpose Through SUNSMART business model and core values, the company connue to gain recognions and accolades. Its inspiring accomplishments is led by no other than its President & Co-Founder, Miss Jenny Lin G. Maaño -Ngai who strengthened the company’s mission with herFour (4) Pillars to success; that is to serve with a heart for People, Planet, Progress and PURPOSE.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company251
• April 10, 2019 Miss Jenny Lin Granados Maaño-Ngai is one of the very rst Filipina in green energy eld who landed in the high prole People Asia Magazine as Faces in the Crowd “Running and Ruling Woman entrepreneur to inspire today”• On April 12, 2020, Miss Jenny was featured by The Manila Times “Keep in View” as WOMAN POWER PLAYER bravely energizing the remote areas determined to bring solar energy to the 16 million Filipinos who remain unserved and underserved. hps://www.manilames.net/2020/04/12/business/sunday-business-i-t/power-player/712658 • On the same year of June 30, 2020, she remarkably received a one in a decade honorary award from Philippines Forbes Business Society as the youngest “Jose Rizal Pamana Awardee” Most Inspiraonal Business Entrepreneur Leader. • In early January of 2021, despite the challenges faced in Covid19 Pandemic, Miss Jenny bearing the ag of the Philippines with her company SUNSMART won the global arena of ACES - Asia Corporate Excellence Sustainability in Malaysia as ACES Most Promising SME and Asia Corporate Excellence Sustainability Business Leader.• On January 14, 2022 Miss Jenny was one of the privileged chosen few key inspiraonal woman speakers from the Philippines for (WHD) World Humanitarian Drive in London, UK combang adversity against the uprising and vast eects of Climate Change. She received and is currently listed by WHD-World Humanitarian Drive Founder, Chairman & CEO Dr. Abdul Basil Syed Frsa as an “INSPIRING MILLIONS AWARDEE” along with prominent names of high prole corporaons, business leaders and renowned personalies all over the world such as James Bond Girl Rachel Grant and famed author and award winning story writer Tony Cranston from UK among all others. https://www.whd.org.uk/inspiring_humanitarian_awards.html• At her own iniave of CSR works and uncondional support of creang livelihood programs during an employment halt from the pandemic to the LGBTQ communies and Filipino Fashion Designers of the Philippines , last July 12, 2022 independence day celebraon, Miss Jenny was named by the reputable organizaons together with Crowne Plaza Galleria as “Philippines PRIDE Most Quintessenal Woman”.• On December 3, 2022, with lengthy humbled accomplishments Miss Jenny have garnered beyond her solar business, Philippine Best Brand Management Commiee composed of media, key inuencers, polical leaders and celebries has awarded Miss Jenny as BEST Magazine FACE OF SUCCESS 2023. Among the awardees also includes Mercedes Benz and The Manila Times.• On August 25, 2023, Jenny was hailed as one of Philippines BEST Outstanding Woman of the Year. Her Company SUNSMART Solar Power Technology Inc., was listed as a noble recipient of Philippines Tourism Circle Awards as BEST BRANDS.• October 13, 2023, Jenny was recognized by APA – Asia’s Pinnacle Award, a presgious award-giving body powered by Asia’s Golden Icons Awards, as Outstanding Business Leader in Green Energy Innovaon and Renewable Power Producon. The organizaon has given tribute on her incredible work values as an individual to serve far ung impoverished areas where many fellow Filipinos are deprived of the basic ulity essenal. Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company252
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable CompanyKAULAYAW COFFEEMS. ALLYN JOY V. CABARLESFOUNDER & CEO253Kaulayaw is a proud Filipino brand that started because of a mission to help our local coee farmers from dierent parts of the Philippines. With the emergence of foreign coee brands and foreign coee distributors, the small market share of our local coee farmers became even smaller and they remain to be unseen and le out. Our primary goal, which we have been acvely doing in the past years, is to ethically source quality local coee beans in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Kaulayaw is a deep Tagalog word that means “inmate companion.” For us, coee is more than just a beverage; coee is our inmate companion. Coee is a comforng and familiar presence in one’s daily life. Whether providing a sense of solace during quiet moments or energizing us for the day ahead, coee becomes a trusted and inmate ritual for many, oering not just a delicious taste but a source of comfort and roune. The company started in 2019 as an online business that sells local coee beans around Rizal and nearby cies. Kaulayaw was founded by Miss AJ Cabarles, an Environmental Consultant and a Professional Events Planner, and Miss Allysa Janine Niño, an Execuve Chef and a Film Director. Both are fueled by their passion for coee and their foundaon is their mission to help local coee farmers.OUR HUMBLE BEGINNINGS The online business was rapidly growing as AJ and Ally reach out directly to local coee farmers in Luzon, parcularly, the Cordilleras. Soon, more and more local coee beans are also coming in from Visayas and Mindanao. They also partnered with cooperaves of local coee farmers and farm owners to further increase their reach. Lile by lile, local coee beans are starng to penetrate the market and Kaulayaw is starng to build its own name in Rizal Province.
In 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic struck the Philippines and it forced a lot of businesses to close down. However, this did not stop AJ and Ally in their mission, instead, it made them even more resilient because they know how vital Kaulayaw’s role is in the lives of the coee farmers that they support. On July of the same year, the two courageously decided to rent a space in a restaurant in Sumulong Highway in Rizal to open a small coee cart. This cart served as the rst physical store of Kaulayaw in the Philippines. A company which started as one small coee cart, has now grown into six branches naonwide. As of today, Kaulayaw has over 30 acve partnerships naonwide. These partnerships are composed of local coee farmer communies and cooperaves. Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company254
OUR VISION AND MISSION Kaulayaw’s vision and mission is simple. It is deep-rooted in our drive to bring the best quality coee beans and coee products to the Filipino people and the world while helping our local coee farmers and partners in the process. As a company, we envision to be the local brand of choice which oers ethically sourced and locally grown coee. Our vision encapsulates a mulfaceted commitment and aspiraon. Firstly, it emphasizes the goal of becoming the preferred brand in the market. This signies a desire to embed the brand into the local culture and fabric, fostering a sense of belonging and loyalty among customers. Secondly, the menon of “ethically sourced” coee underscores a commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. It implies a dedicaon to fair trade pracces, environmental stewardship, and support for coee-producing communies. Addionally, the emphasis on “locally grown” coee reects a dedicaon to supporng local farmers and businesses. It contributes to the regional economy, reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportaon, and ensures fresher, high-quality products. In essence, this vision statement signies a desire to be a responsible, community-centric brand known for its commitment to ethical sourcing and locally grown, delicious coee. Our mission is to equitably source exceponal coee beans from our country and help our market to have an easier access to the best tasng coee our land has to oer. First and foremost, it highlights our promise to equitable sourcing. This mission implies a dedicaon to fair and ethical pracces in coee procurement, beneng local coee farmers. By priorizing equitable relaonships, the brand not only supports the livelihoods of those who culvate these exceponal coees but also contributes to the socio-economic development of the region. Furthermore, the focus on “exceponal coee beans” reects a dedicaon to quality. It suggests a commitment to idenfying, curang, and oering only the nest coee beans that the Philippines can produce. This pursuit of excellence enhances the reputaon of Philippine coee both locally and internaonally. The second part of the statement emphasizes accessibility. Making the “best-tasng coee” more readily available to the market suggests an intenon to bridge the gap between producers and consumers. This may involve innovave distribuon methods, creang more aordable opons, and expanding market reach to ensure that a broader audience can savor the delights of Philippine coee. This mission statement is a testament to the brand’s commitment to equitable sourcing, exceponal quality, and accessibility, all of which collecvely contribute to the growth and appreciaon of the Philippines’ coee industry.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company255
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company256OUR LOCATIONS A company that started as one small coee cart, has now grown into mulple locaons and various businesses naonwide. With one goal in mind which is to help the farmers and local business owners in the community, everybody grew over me. You can now nd Kaulayaw in six locaons all around the Philippines. Our pioneer branch is in Kaulayaw Anpolo in Rizal and other locaons are the following:• Kaulayaw Cuyambay in Tanay, Rizal• Kaulayaw Estancia in Estancia Mall, Pasig City• Kaulayaw BGC in High Street, Bonifacio Global City• Kaulayaw Isabela in Sanago City, Isabela• Kaulayaw Coron in Coron Town Proper, Palawan Kaulayaw is also known as Rizal’s Home of Local Coee and the Home of Reimagined Filipino Cuisine. Over the years, we have also expanded our business in wine producon with our Saniata: A Dragon Fruit Wine handpicked by the Dumagats of Tanay, Rizal. Kaulayaw is also in the business of bouque hotels with our AJ Coee and Bed in Coron, Palawan. This year, we launched Uhaw: An exclusive bar that features expertly craed cocktails and a cozy yet sophiscated lounge enveloped by music from classic vinyl records. In the future, we want to see Kaulayaw, not only in the Philippines but in the whole world. As we rise, we are bringing with us the Philippines, its local coee beans and its proud farmers in our journey. Kaulayaw hold a special place in many communies. We are more than a place to grab a cup of coee; we serve as hubs for connecon and community. In addion to providing a space for social gatherings and caeine lovers, Kaulayaw play a crucial role in supporng both local coee farmers and the communies we serve. One of the most signicant ways in which Kaulayaw benet the community and local coee farmers is through economic empowerment. We oen establish direct relaonships with nearby coee bean farmers. By sourcing our coee locally, we not only ensure the freshest and most unique avors but also inject much-needed revenue into the local economy. Local coee farmers are oen small-scale producers who rely on their coee crops as their primary source of income. Kaulayaw choose to buy beans from these farmers, and we provide a stable and fair market for their produce. This consistent demand allows farmers to support their families, invest in their farms, and sustain generaons-old tradions. In doing so, Kaulayaw becomes a catalyst for economic stability in the community. Kaulayaw also priorize environmentally sustainable pracces through our farmers whether direct or in a collecve group - cooperaves. This approach reduces the carbon footprint associated with the transportaon of coee beans over long distances. Moreover, Kaulayaw works with farmers who employ eco-friendly and responsible farming techniques and by doing so, we promote environmental stewardship. Kaulayaw is more than a caeine dispensary; it is a catalyst for community and sustainability. By sourcing coee beans locally, Kaulayaw empower local farmers, bolster the local economy, promote environmental sustainability, and nurture strong community bonds. The legacy of Kaulayaw is the enduring impact it has on its community and its unwavering support for local coee farmers. It’s a reminder that supporng local businesses and sustainable pracces can create a powerful posive ripple eect that strengthens communies and helps sustain the livelihoods of local farmers. Shade-grown and organic farming methods are oen favored by local coee farmers who understand the importance of preserving the environment. We support these farmers because they contribute to the conservaon of local ecosystems and biodiversity. By making these choices, we establish a legacy of sustainable pracces for the community, encouraging others to follow suit. Kaulayaw lies in the sense of community we create. We encourage residents to gather, connect, and celebrate their shared experiences. In many cases, we host local events, art displays, and live performances, becoming plaorms for local arsts and musicians to showcase their talents. In this way, Kaulayaw is not just your regular place that serve coee but also we become a vital part of the community’s cultural tapestry.OUR COMMUNITYOUR LEGACY
Certied Most Sustainable and Liveable OrganizationMISS GRAND PHILIPPINES ORGANIZATIONMR. ARNOLD VEGAFRIAPRESIDENT & CEO / NATIONAL DIRECTOR257The Miss Grand Philippines Organizaon, under the ALV Pageant Circle Management Inc., is led by Mr. Arnold Vegafria, who serves as the President, CEO, and Naonal Director. Miss Grand Philippines is the newest presgious beauty pageant to be held annually in the Philippines. It showcases the beauty, grace, and intelligence of Filipino women. The pageant aims to promote peace, love, and unity among regions. Contestants from dierent regions of the Philippines compete in various rounds, including swimsuit, evening gown, and queson-and-answer segments. The winner of Miss Grand Philippines represents the country in the internaonal Miss Grand Internaonal pageant. Miss Grand Philippines is known for its world-class producon, creang spectacular shows that capvate audiences. From the stunning stage design to the dazzling performances, every detail is meculously craed to deliver an unforgeable experience.
The organizaon’s commitment to excellence is evident in the seamless execuon of each event, showcasing the beauty, talent, and grace of the contestants. With its dedicaon to producing top-notch producons, Miss Grand Philippines connues to raise the bar and set new standards in the pageant industry. Miss Grand Philippines Organizaon is a strong advocate for the Stop the War and Violence campaign, acvely partnering with the Teach Peace Build Peace Movement. Through this collaboraon, they aim to raise awareness about the impact of violence and promote peace-building iniaves. By using their plaorm, the organizaon encourages individuals to stand up against war and violence, fostering a culture of peace and harmony. The partnership between Miss Grand Philippines and the Teach Peace Build Peace Movement is truly remarkable. By focusing on peace educaon for the youth, they are empowering the future generaon to become advocates for peace and harmony. It’s inspiring to see how beauty pageants can make a posive impact beyond the glitz and glamour. Together, they are working towards a world free from war and violence.Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Organization258
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Organization259 Miss Grand Philippines 2023 candidates made a visit to Maharlika Integrated School to distribute gis to the students and promote peace educaon. It’s heartwarming to see them acvely engaging with the community and spreading the message of peace to the younger generaon. This kind of iniave has a lasng impact on the lives of these students and helps create a more peaceful and harmonious society. The current tleholder is Nikki Advincula de Moura, hailing from Cagayan De Oro City. Alongside her, the court of queens includes Reina Hispanoamericana 2023 Michelle Arceo, Miss Philippines Tourism 2033 Herlene Nicole Budol, Miss Eco Teen Philippines 2023 Francine Reyes, and two runners-up Shanon Tampon and Charie Sergio. Together, they represent the beauty, talent, and grace of the Philippines on the internaonal stage.
Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Organization260 Nikki de Moura, from Cagayan de Oro City, Mindanao, is determined to elevate Mindanao and prove that peace is possible. Despite the challenges and the characterizaon of Mindanao as a war-stricken zone, Nikki’s passion for her hometown and her advocacy for peace is truly inspiring. Through her plaorm in Miss Grand Philippines, she stands as a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience. In her journey towards the Miss Grand Philippines 2023 crown, she carries within her a profound commitment to fostering lasng peace and unity not only in Mindanao but across our beloved naon. She rmly believes that peace is not just the absence of conict, but a state of harmony where hearts and minds ourish, and individuals can thrive to their fullest potenal. Mindanao, despite its tumultuous past, is a land that pulsates with a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, languages, and tradions. It is a place where resilience and the indomitable spirit of its people shine through amidst adversity. Her advocacy for peace transcends borders and stereotypes, aiming to break the chains of misunderstanding and fear. She strives to rewrite the narrave surrounding Mindanao, to shed light on the untold stories of unity, compassion, and progress that are oen overshadowed. By embracing their dierences and celebrang their shared humanity, she believes they can harness the power of diversity as a catalyst for peacebuilding. Her advocacy for peace as a proud Mindanaoan is not just a personal journey but a collecve mission that transcends boundaries. She stands rm in my belief that peace is the most precious inheritance and our greatest legacy to future generaons. The Miss Grand Philippines Organizaon has been instrumental in providing a plaorm for young women to showcase their skills and advocate for important causes. Through their parcipaon in various events and engagements, these queens inspire others and make a posive impact in their communies. The organizaon’s commitment to empowering women and promong social awareness is truly commendable. Their dedicaon to social causes is truly inspiring, making a posive impact in the community and beyond. As the Miss Grand Philippines Organizaon connues to grow and evolve, we can expect to see more remarkable women making their mark and represenng the Philippines with pride.
DIRECTORYCONGRESSMAN OF THE YEARHON. MICHAEL L. ROMERO, Ph.D.Representative, Party List, 1-PACMANRm. SWA-319, House of RepresentativesHON. PAOLO “PULONG” Z. DUTERTERepresentative, Davao City, 1st DistrictRm. MB-2F, House of RepresentativesBatasan Complex, Batasan Hills, Quezon CityCONGRESSWOMAN OF THE YEARHON. EMMARIE “LOLYPOP” M. OUANO-DIZONRepresentative, Mandaue City, Lone DistrictRm. NW-606, House of RepresentativesBatasan Complex, Batasan Hills, Quezon CityHON. LANI MERCADO-REVILLARepresentative, Cavite, 2nd DistrictRm. MB-N 327, House of RepresentativesBatasan Complex, Batasan Hills, Quezon CityHON. BERNADETTE “BH” HERRERARepresentative, Party List - BHRm. NW-213, House of RepresentativesBatasan Complex, Batasan Hills, Quezon CityHON. MA. CYNTHIA “CINDI” KING CHANRepresentative, Lone District of Lapu-Lapu CityRm. NW-517, House of RepresentativesBatasan Complex, Batasan Hills, Quezon CityHON. SITTIE SHAHARA “BAI DIMPLE” I. MASTURARepresentative, Lone District, Maguindanao del Norte with Cotabato CityRm. NW-608, House of RepresentativesBatasan Complex, Batasan Hills, Quezon CityGOVERNOR OF THE YEARHON. MATTHEW JOSEPH MARCOS MANOTOCGOVERNOR, ILOCOS NORTEOffice of the Governor, Provincial Capitol 2900 Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, PhilippinesVICE GOVERNOR OF THE YEARATTY. KATHERINE C. AGAPAYVICE GOVERNOR – LAGUNA Office of the Vice Governor, Provincial Capitol4009 Sta. Cruz, Laguna, PhilippinesBOARD MEMBER OF THE YEARHON. THADEO JOVITO “JONKIE” M. OUANOBOARD MEMBER – CEBUOffice of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Provincial Capitol 6000 Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines HON. JOSE FULGENCIO “PEPE” A. DEL ROSARIOBOARD MEMBER – CAPIZOffice of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Provincial Capitol 5800 Roxas City, Capiz, Philippines LOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE YEARHON. VICTOR MA. REGIS N. SOTTOMAYOR, CITY GOVERNMENT OF PASIGOffice of the Mayor, Pasig City Hall8th Floor Caruncho Avenue, San Nicolas, Pasig City 1600HON. HILARIO G. PAGAUITANMAYOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF SANTA MARIA, ISABELAOffice of the Mayor, Municipal HallPoblacion I, Santa Maria, IsabelaHON. DANTE RIZAL A. ESLABONMAYOR, GOVERNMENT OF SIGMA, CAPIZOffice of the Mayor, Sigma Municipal BuildingPoblacion Norte, Sigma, Capiz, Philippines HON. MARIA CONCEPCION “KHUKU” TAN CASTROMAYOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF DUMALAG, CAPIZOffice of the Mayor Municipal Hall, Poblacion Dumalag, CapizHON. LORENZO B. RELLOSAMAYOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF FAMY, LAGUNAOffice of the Mayor, Famy Municipal Hall,Cajudo St., Barangay Magdalo, Famy, LagunaHON. AVIS GINOO MONLEONMAYOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF CATMON, CEBUOffice of the Mayor, Municipal HallNational Highway Poblacion, Catmon, CebuVICE MAYORHON. BANJO S. ESTRELLAVICE MAYOR, GOVERNMENT OF GUIGUINTO, BULACAN Office of the Vice Mayor, Guiguinto Municipal Hall3015 Guiguinto, Bulacan, PhilippinesCOUNCILOR OF THE YEARHON. ANDREO “ANJONG” OUANO ICALINACOUNCILOR, CITY GOVERNMENT OF MANDAUE, CEBUOffice of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, Mandaue City Hall BuildingBarangay Centro, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines 6014HON. RACHELLE ERICA PINEDACOUNCILOR, CITY GOVERNMENT OF TACLOBAN, LEYTEOffice of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, Tacloban City Hall, Kanhuraw Hill,Magsaysay Blvd, Tacloban City, 6500 PhilippinesHON. RAINIER GLENN “BOSING RIEN“ DE LUNA OLIVEROSCOUNCILOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF GUMACA, QUEZONOffice of the Sangguniang Bayan, Municipal HallM.H. Del Pilar Street, Brgy. Pipisik, Gumaca QuezonHON. EDITHA “WOWEE“ Y. MANGUERRA COUNCILOR, CITY GOVERNMENT OF PASAYOffice of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, Pasay City Hall F.B. Harrison St, Pasay, Metro Manila Tel: (02) 8834.0433; 09178436059HON. AGUSTIN B. CANLASCOUNCILOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF ANGONO, RIZALOffice of the Sangguniang Bayan, Municipal HallBlk 18 lot 1 ML Quezon Ext., Mahabang Parang, Angono, RizalHON. MARIE NIÑA NIKKIE PEREZCOUNCILOR, MUNICIPALITY OF BUSTOS, BULACANOffice of the Sangguniang Bayan,2/F, Municipal Government BuildingBustos, BulacanBARANGAY CAPTAIN OF THE YEARHON. THELMA RAMIREZCAPTAIN, BARANGAY EAST REMBO, MAKATI CITYOffice of the Barangay Captain, Barangay HallBrgy. East Rembo, Makati CityHON. CIRILO “BEBOT” A. TENORIO PUNONG BARANGAY, BARANGAY STA. CRUZ, ANTIPOLO CITY Office of the Barangay Captain, Barangay Hall Sta. Cruz, Antipolo City HON. RESTITUTO E. CAJESCAPTAIN, BARANGAY SAN ANTONIO VILLAGE, MAKATI CITYOffice of the Barangay Captain, Barangay HallMayapis St., San Antonio Village Makati CityHON. RIZZA TESALONA E. GUIANGCAPTAIN, BARANGAY PANAYLNB PRESIDENT, GOVERNMENT OF SANTA MARCELA, APAYAOSangguniang Bayan Office, Santa Marcela Town Hall3811 Santa Marcela, Apayao PhilippinesPUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEARHON. JOHN JESNER PERCE HINORGA PUNSARANPRESIDENT - BARANGAY COUNCILORS LEAGUEOF THE PHILIPPINES ILOILO CITY AND WESTERN VISAYASSANGGUNIANG BARANGAY MEMBERBarangay Nabitasan, Iloilo CityPHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEARMS. YOK TIN TAN SOLIONS CLUB OF MAKATIAYALA AMITY CENTENNIAL LIONS CLUBManguerra So Property LeasingPusong D’barkadz Association2624 Talf Ave. Pasay CityCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE YEARMR. ABDUL RAZZAQ SIDDIQPRESIDENT 2World Traders, Inc.285 El Grande Avenue, BF Homes, Paranaque City, Metro Manila 1700 Philippines MS. ALLYN JOY V. CABARLESFOUNDER & CEOKAULAYAW COFFEE23 Sumulong Highway, Sta. Cruz, Antipolo 1870 RizalMR. RYNOR G. JAMANDREPRESIDENT & CEOQUANTITY SOLUTIONS, INC.Penthouse, Alabang Corporate Center, Km. 25 West Service RoadSouth Superhighway, Alabang, Muntinlupa City, 1770 Philippines
DIRECTORYMR. ALLAN L. CRISOLOGOPRESIDENTGOLDEN TOPPERS GROUP INC. (GTGI)27th Corporate Plaza, High Street, South Street, TaguigMODERN FILIPINO HEROISM OF THE YEARCOL. GREGORIO B. HERNANDEZ, JR. PN(M)(GSC)SUPERINTENDENT,MARINE CORPS FORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER (MCFDC)Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Ft Bonifacio, Taguig CityMOST EMPOWERED WOMAN OF THE YEARMS. LOUE MANUEL BOZHILOVMRS. CONTINENTAL INTERNATIONAL PHILIPPINES 2023FOUNDER, MANAGING DIRECTOR CEBU GRAND REALTY#8 Regency Crest, Paseo Saturnino, Cebu City, 6014 CebuPUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR - EXCELLENCE IN PEACE AND NATION BUILDINGDRA. BAE OKILE MANGONDATO SHARIEF, ALHADJA FOUNDER/CHAIRWOMAN/PRESIDENT Lanao Central College, Inc. – LCCI East Basak, Awar St., Marawi City, Lanao del SurPUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR - EXCELLENCE IN GOVERNMENT SERVICEHON. KHALID “MP KYLE” M. HADJI ABDULLAHMember of Parliament,Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)Bangsamoro Government CenterGov. Gutierrez Avenue, Rosary Heights 7Cotabato CityBUSINESS INNOVATOR AND EXECUTIVE OF THE YEARMR. MARK JOSEPH T. FERNANDEZCHAIRMAN, FINANCEPH GROUP OF COMPANIESPB Com Tower, Ayala Avenue, Makati CityMR. ROBERT SCOTTVICE PRESIDENTHOTEL OPERATIONS, HOTEL ADMINISTRATIONTiger Resort Leisure & Entertainment, Inc. (Okada Manila)New Seaside Drive, Entertainment CityParañaque City 1701, Metro Manila, PhilippinesICON AND INNOVATOR OF THE YEARAUX CAPTAIN DIETHER P. OCAMPO PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD (PCG) Philippine Coast Guard Headquarters # 139 25th St. Port Area ManilaSTRONGEST AND GREATEST BRAND MARKETINGGEMMA DE GUIACEOVEERA CELL INTERNATIONAL MARKETING(OPC)4th Floor Unit LS40, Lemon Square Building Barangay, Katipunan,1199 Edsa Quezon CityCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE ANDLIVEABLE DISTRICTHON. LANI MERCADO-REVILLARepresentative, Cavite, 2nd DistrictRm. MB-N 327, House of RepresentativesBatasan Complex, Batasan Hills, Quezon CityCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE &LIVEABLE PARTY LISTHON. BERNADETTE “BH” HERRERARepresentative, Party List - BHRm. NW-213, House of RepresentativesBatasan Complex, Batasan Hills, Quezon CityHON. EDVIC G. YAPRepresentative, Party List - ACT-CISRm. SW-213, House of RepresentativesBatasan Complex, Batasan Hills, Quezon CityCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE ANDLIVEABLE PROVINCEHON. MATTHEW JOSEPH MARCOS MANOTOCGOVERNOR, ILOCOS NORTEOffice of the Governor, Provincial Capitol 2900 Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, PhilippinesCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE ANDLIVEABLE MUNICIPALITY HON. HILARIO G. PAGAUITANMAYOR, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OF SANTA MARIA, ISABELAOffice of the Mayor, Municipal HallPoblacion I, Santa Maria, IsabelaENGR. RAMIL B. RIVERAMAYOR, GOVERNMENT OF CABIAO, NUEVA ECIJAOffice of the Mayor, Cabiao Municipal Hall3107 Cabiao, Nueva Ecija, Philippines HON. DENNIS M. GLEANMAYOR, GOVERNMENT OF GENERAL EMILIO AGUINALDO, CAVITEOffice of the Mayor, General Emilio Aguinaldo Municipal Hall4124 General Emilio Aguinaldo, CaviteCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE ANDLIVEABLE BARANGAYHON. RIZZA TESALONA GUIANGCAPTAIN, BARANGAY PANAYLNB PRESIDENT, GOVERNMENT OF SANTA MARCELA, APAYAOSangguniang Bayan Office, Santa Marcela Town Hall3811 Santa Marcela, Apayao PhilippinesHON. RESTITUTO E. CAJESCAPTAIN, BARANGAY SAN ANTONIO VILLAGE, MAKATI CITYOffice of the Barangay Captain, Barangay HallMayapis St., San Antonio Village Makati CityHON. CIRILO “BEBOT” A. TENORIO PUNONG BARANGAY, BARANGAY STA. CRUZ, ANTIPOLO CITY Office of the Barangay Captain, Barangay Hall Sta. Cruz, Antipolo City HON. THELMA RAMIREZCAPTAIN, BARANGAY EAST REMBO, MAKATI CITYOffice of the Barangay Captain, Barangay HallBrgy. East Rembo, Makati CityCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE ANDLIVEABLE RESORTMS. GEMMALYN CROSBYEmpire Builder/ Business Leader/Real Estate Developer| Author| Athlete| Wife| Mother|5 Star Luxury Resorts Developer| Sustainable Urban Planning.PRESIDENT, EUREKA RESORTS, INC.Ecotown, National Highway, Brgy. Sibaltan, El Nido PalawanCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE ANDLIVEABLE COMPANYMR. ALLEN MARVIN YU EDERPRESIDENT & FOUNDERIAM WORLDWIDE CORPORATIONUnit 3, CBC (China Banking Corporation) Building# 14 Ortigas Avenue, Greenhills, San Juan City, Metro ManilaJENNY LIN G. MAAÑO - NGAICO-FOUNDER & PRESIDENTSUNSMART Solar Power Technology Inc.20th Floor, Zuellig Building, cor Paseo De Roxas Avenue, Makati CityMS. ALLYN JOY V. CABARLESFOUNDER & CEOKAULAYAW COFFEE23 Sumulong Highway, Sta. Cruz, Antipolo 1870 RizalCERTIFIED MOST SUSTAINABLE ANDLIVEABLE ORGANIZATIONMR. ARNOLD VEGAFRIAPRESIDENT & CEO / NATIONAL DIRECTOR MISS GRAND PHILIPPINES Suites 507, The Taipan Place Ortigas Center, Pasig City 1605
SIR KARL MCLEAN, KSTCHAIRMAN & PUBLISHERSUSTAINABILITY STANDARDS, INC.KENNETH PRIETO ROCETEPRESIDENT & CEOSUSTAINABILITY STANDARDS, INC“We need comprehensive and up-to-date educational materials to supplement the reduction of organizations carbon emissions based on measurements, offset usage and within the environmental limits as we need to bring sustainable development benefits to Communities, Cities, Municipalities, Province and Districts, such as improved air and water quality, improved income, reduced energy consumption, eradicate poverty and hunger, guaranteeing a healthy life. Universalize access to basic services such as water, sanitation and sustainable energy. Support the generation of development opportunities through inclusive education and decent work”.Karl McLean is a professional CEO having run many large corporations around the world including Digital Equipment Asia Pacific, Polaroid Asia Pacific, Hitachi Data Systems. At 26 he was made Managing Director of Hamilton Rentals a large Canadian company responsible for computer rentals in Germany and Holland and was also responsible for many start up Marketing and IT companies and company turnarounds. He was educated in Europe and qualified as an accountant. He has spent the past 37 years in Asia and Pacific. He is affluent in seven international language and can write in English, Dutch, German, French, Spanish, Mandarin and Danish.Entrepreneur, Rotary Club President, UN SDGs Advocate for Climate Change Action, PR Strategist and an indefatigable civic leader.He graduated from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines with a Bachelor of Science degree in Entrepreneurial Management in 2003.He earned Units (Undergraduate) in Master’s in Cooperative Finance and Public Administration at the Southern LuzonUniversity in 2005. He is currently taking up Master’s Degree in Crisis Management at the Philippine Christian University.He is the author and publisher of the “Nation Builders” and “Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Communities” with copyright and exclusive distribution in the Philippines.He was able to secure five Copyrights and Forty (40) IPO Registrations together with the Nation Builders and MOSLIV Awards as its flagship project in the Philippines, with an estimated bi-annual attendance of 1,200 VVIP’s, making the NBMA Awards Gala as the Number 1 Sustainability Awards Festival in Asia.