30/06/2025
Valedictory Speech :
Today marks the end of a meaningful chapter of my life as I step down from my role as Vice Mayor of Mandaue City. It is with deep gratitude and humility that I stand before you to reflect on a journey that has been both challenging and rewarding.
I returned to public service on 2019, embarking on a different journey from what I had experienced before. To serve effectively as a City Councilor, especially during the height of the pandemic, I knew I had to make significant adjustments. As a medical doctor, I felt a strong sense of responsibility to step up and contribute to addressing the global health crisis through proactive measures in our City.
It was also during the pandemic that I became actively involved in the fight against illegal drugs. Through MCSAPO, created pursuant to Ordinance No. 15-2022-123, which I principally authored, I was able to create programs for the drug warriors. As part of these efforts, 500,000 pesos were granted as financial assistance to drug-cleared barangay to help augment the needs of the drug warriors.
I am proud to share that under my leadership as the Focal of the City Anti-Drug Council (CADAC), we successfully declared eleven (11) barangays as drug-cleared, a milestone made possible through collective dedication and unwavering commitment.
During both terms, I was given the opportunity to be the Chairperson of the Committee on Health, among others. It was an honor to work alongside with the City Health Office, the City Hospital, and various organizations dedicated to the health and well-being of the Mandauehanons. This role also provided opportunities for me to support not only public health initiatives but also the Barangay Health and Nutrition Workers, who tirelessly serve the most vulnerable members of our City. It was through Ordinance No. 16-2024-1872 that we acknowledge BHNWS’ hard work by providing them better benefits and incentives.
I am proud to share that, as President of the Lady Local Legislators’ League (Four-L) Cebu Island Chapter, we have made significant strides in empowering women in public service. Four-L is a national organization of women local legislators, established to provide support, camaraderie, and capacity-building among lady legislators.
Our chapter is the only one in the Philippines to successfully organize an award-giving body that recognizes the outstanding legislative work of women in local governance. Our flagship project, the first Outstanding Lady Local Legislators’ Award (OLLLA), held in partnership with DILG-Sugbo, was a landmark event graced by the presence and support of Governor Gwen Garcia.
I am truly proud of our accomplishments, as well as the continued growth and active engagement of the Four-L Cebu Island Chapter.
Lastly, as City Councilors, one of our major responsibilities is crafting local legislations that aim to address the current and future needs of the city. This work was only possible with the collaborative efforts of the Sangguniang Panlungsod members. I am especially grateful to Ms. Frie, Ms. Karen, and the rest of the staff of the SP Office. You were the backbone of our legislative work- your dedication kept the council running through all seasons.
This journey was not an easy path. It took a lot of turns and detours, especially when political challenges threatened to overshadow our true purpose of public service. But through it all, I know that we have learned, we have grown, and we have persevered – not only as public servants but as individuals committed to make a meaningful change.
As I enter into this new chapter of our lives, I remain committed to serving our people in my own capacity, with the same heart and purpose that guided me throughout this journey. As we move forward, I sincerely hope that those who have been elected will continue to honor the promises they have made to the Mandauehanons. And despite our political differences, may we support the initiatives of the new administration, especially those that is aimed towards the progress and betterment of our City.
