In my many years of public service, I have carried with me the values and vision I learned while serving in Davao City under the leadership of then-Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte. I never imagined that I would one day become a senator of the country. Yet here I am today, entrusted with a greater responsibility to serve our fellow Filipinos.
That is why I value my job deeply. Every visit, every assistance given, and every initiative is close to my heart. I remain committed to genuine public service with integrity, working to the best of my ability so that government programs and services may reach those who need them most. I continue to push for inclusive legislation that delivers real and meaningful benefits to every Filipino.
On 18 February, we hailed the approval on third and final reading of Senate Bill 155, which we co-authored. This measure seeks to simplify the documentary requirements for Filipinos applying for government financial assistance. As vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, I believe that financial assistance should not be buried under layers of paperwork and must be felt when it is most needed. Assistance must be accessible, efficient, and felt immediately, especially by those in crisis.
I am also a co-author of Senate Bill 1629, or the proposed Multi-Faith Prayer and Quiet Rooms Act, a bill that stresses the need to institutionalize inclusive spaces for prayer and reflection in public settings. The approval of this measure on third and final reading in the Senate comes at an opportune time for the Ramadan season of our Muslim brothers and sisters. Establishing these spaces reflects our deep respect for diversity and our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all faiths.
The previous week, we also filed Senate Bill 1849, a measure seeking to abolish the travel tax imposed on Filipinos leaving the country and on nationals of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states traveling to other ASEAN destinations. As a member of the Senate Committee on Tourism, I believe that maintaining such a tax runs counter to the Philippines’ commitments under the ASEAN Tourism Agreement of 2002, which encourages the progressive removal of travel-related barriers to promote tourism, mobility, and regional integration among ASEAN nations.
Meanwhile, on 20 February, we personally visited the 177 fire victims in Malabon City. First, we visited and provided assistance to those affected by the fire in Barangay Maysilo. This was followed by our visit to Barangay Tañong, where we went to the actual site of the fire incident and personally distributed immediate assistance to affected residents amid the challenges they are facing. During my visit, I was joined by Mayor Jeanie Sandoval, Vice Mayor Edward Nolasco, Councilor Payapa Ona, Councilor Maricar Torres, several barangay officials of Barangay Maysilo, Barangay Tañong Captain Alma Buenaventura, and former Vice Mayor Ninong dela Cruz.
On 21 February, we were invited to the Chibog Chow ribbon-cutting and opening ceremony at Robinsons Place Manila. The event was organized by former Senator Nikki Coseteng. It brought together a vibrant showcase of Filipino and Chinese cuisine, culture and entertainment, celebrating community, creativity, and the shared joy of food through lively performances and a festive atmosphere.
I remain steadfast in my commitment to serve with humility, integrity, and dedication. No malicious accusations nor attempts to discredit my work will ever diminish my love for public service, because service is my passion, and I believe that service to the people is service to God.
The previous week, the team also went to grassroots communities and aided various kababayans in need, providing assistance to fire victims in Pasig City, Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, Barangay 37-D in Davao City, and Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
Additionally, victims of typhoon “Basyang” from the municipalities of Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Hinatuan and Barobo, as well as the city of Bislig in Surigao del Sur, were also aided by the team. Landslide victims in Mati City likewise received assistance.
Furthermore, our team also provided aid and educational assistance to students in need in Baguio City.
As a public servant, I ensure to take care of your trust and will continue to serve with utmost respect and diligence, especially in finding more ways to improve the lives of my fellow Filipinos dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo din sa Diyos.