Region IV in the Southern Tagalog area has two parts, A and B, each having its identity that makes them unique. For instance, Region IV-A (composed of the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon, or CALABARZON) is a favorite tourist spot for local and international travelers. It’s known for its white beaches, cultural heritage sites dating back to the Spanish era, marine sanctuary, majestic mountains, and more. In the meantime, Region IV-B (which consists of the provinces of Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan) is one of the producers of the country’s top export products like rice, banana, coconut, cashew, and papaya.
Yet, despite being separated into two different parts of the same region, CALABARZON and MIMAROPA share in the appreciation of good governance. It’s prevalent in their districts thanks to their representatives in the 19th Congress, who answered the call of public service.
HON. ADRIAN JAY C. ADVINCULA
(Cavite, Third District)
If there’s one thing that the residents in Cavite’s Third District know, it’s the “Alagang Advincula” brand of service from their district representative. Rep. Advincula tirelessly listens to his people to determine how to provide the appropriate services. He uses his knowledge from his interactions with the public to offer new opportunities to his constituents as he leads them to a modern society that embraces change and other prospects.
Due to his dedication to providing the utmost care and service, Rep. Advincula is always active in his district. Some of his efforts include providing millions of pesos worth of financial assistance for medicine, education, and livelihood opportunities. He also spearheaded various infrastructure projects to offer several improvements.
The district representative is also busy in the 19th Congress lobbying for bills advantageous to various communities in the Philippines. He’s the principal author of acts like mandating all Sangguniang Barangays to provide health cards to their appointed barangay nutrition scholars, barangay health workers, and barangay tanods, instituting a National Citizens Service Training Program in all public and private tertiary education institutions, and providing for the development of sustainable cities and communities in the country.
HON. MARIA JAMINA KATHERINE B. AGARAO
(Laguna, Fourth District)
“I grew up helping my dad (who was a former congressman) uplift many lives through his “makamasa” and “progresibo” brand of leadership. I want to continue helping others—to create opportunities so they can support their dreams, to fight for their rights, and to ensure that they have access to basic services they need especially if it concerns their health and education.
As a member of the 19th Congress, I am fortunate to be part of house committees that reflect my advocacies: women and gender equality, health, trade and industry, labor and employment, and education. I vow to continue supporting legislations that address concerns on education and health and nutrition. I sincerely believe that a strong education sector and a robust health system increase access of each individual to various opportunities and boosts the resilience of our country in general. We can only achieve prosperity and sustainability by having healthy and knowleageble citizens.”
Rep. Agarao, who also goes by the name Jam in her district, will never stop doing what’s honorable for her people. As her motto as a district representative goes, #AgaraoNeverStops. She’s also known as the “Trabahador Natin Sa Kongreso” because she’s ever-present in giving her constituents a significant voice in the House of Representatives. She shows how she rightfully established herself as a credible and efficient district representative.
She has several initiatives accomplished in the office, including providing communities with infrastructure and equipment to increase their chances of leading better lives. Besides offering financial assistance for primary benefits like education and getting medical care, Rep. Agarao also works closely with the local government units in her district to determine how to deliver quality public service.
Her contributions to the 19th Congress as a principal author of various bills include providing a nursing scholarship program to deserving students, regulating the practice of microbiology in the Philippines, and establishing evacuation centers in every city and municipality.
HON. JOSE C. ALVAREZ
(Palawan, Second District)
“Before I even decided to leave the private sector and join politics, I observed how the Province of Palawan was reeling from a case of bad governance and missing out on opportunities for growth and a better quality of life for its people. Palawan in the past had always been underrated in terms of its growth performance, despite its inherent potentials on account of its vast natural resources. I want to uplift the lives of the Palaweños and transform Palawan under a program loaded with high impact projects targeting transportation, communications, education, health, livelihood, and social services.”
PDP-Laban President Congressman Jose “Pepito” Chaves Alvarez is the representative of the 2nd District of Palawan in the 19th Congress. He previously served as the Governor of the Province of Palawan from 2013 to 2022. He holds the Vice Chairmanships for the Committee on Agriculture and Food, Committee on Appropriations, Committee on East Asean Growth Area, Committee on Ecology, Committee on Natural Resources, Committee on Public Works, Committee on Tourism, and Committee on Trade and Industry. He is likewise an active member of the Committee on Cooperatives Development, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Committee on Government Reorganization, Committee on Legislative Franchises, Committee on National Defense and Security, Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, Committee on Transportation, and Committee on Ways and Means. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan. He has an extensive experience in entrepreneurship, politics, and public service. He is the founding Chairman, President, Member of the Board of Directors of several companies primarily engaged in the business of automotive manufacturing, assembly, and distribution, heavy equipment, real estate, bulk water supply, aviation, maritime, land transport, as well as private charitable foundations. He is the former Chairman of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI). At present, he is the President of Forbes Park Association, Inc. and Member of the Board of Directors of the Manila Golf and Country Club. His priorities are to provide infrastructure facilities, accessible healthcare, improve the quality of education, provide livelihood projects, and protection of the environment, for the betterment of the lives of the Palaweños.
HON. LORETO S. AMANTE
(Laguna, Third District)
“I started my career in public service as an executive assistant and later becoming the city administrator under the then mayorship of my father now incumbent San Pablo City Mayor: Vicente B. Amante. From there, I felt this is my calling – to be of service to the people.
Upon the end of my father’s 3rd term, I ran and got elected as city mayor for 3 consecutive terms.
Having the experience in local governance, I saw the need of Local Government Units for support in view of their expanded responsibilities in light of the implementation of the Mandanas Ruling. I’m pushing for equity in the development of small municipalities having meager funds to push poverty alleviation projects and infrastructure.
Among other initiatives, establishing satellite offices (aside from my main district office in San Pablo City) is worth noting. The one in Nagcarlan Laguna is now serving thousands of my constituents monthly. Another such office will soon, rise in Calauan. This has the positive effect of bringing the services of the national government-in general and the congress in particular closer to the people.
From the many bills I authored, I’m prioritizing the passage of House Bill 00300 – An act to amend Republic Act no. 10868 otherwise known as the ‘Centenarians Act of 2016 and for other purposes.’ This bill aims to provide the elderly with benefits much earlier in their life in order for them to truly enjoy its benefits.”
Rep. Amante, or Amben as his district knows him, is an ever-present figure in his regions. Although he takes his role as a public servant seriously, he doesn’t let it keep him from making meaningful connections with his constituents. As a man of action, Rep. Amante proves that he’s ever-reliable in office to advocate for the needs of the Filipinos and come into his own as he discovers new prospects to improve their lives.
The district representative had already accomplished much on his agenda within his first few months as a district representative. He oversees various projects and programs in his region, including doling out medical and financial assistance to those who require attention. Rep. Amante also raises the initiatives of rehabilitating roads in his district to promote accessibility.
He’s also the principal author of some bills in the 19th Congress, including establishing centers for individuals with special needs in the country, instituting the Magna Carta of Filipino seafarers, and designating evacuation centers in every city and municipality.
HON. REYNANTE U. ARROGANCIA
(Quezon Province, Third District)
“I grew up amidst challenging conditions in Bondoc Peninsula and through perseverance and hard work, I have managed to build a successful business. I have seen the struggles and challenges of the residents of the Bondoc Peninsula. Armed with the lessons I have learned on providing consistent, efficient, and responsive service, these are the principles I have carried with me when I decided to venture into politics. I am humbled that the residents of the 3rd District of Quezon placed their faith in me and for the principles I adhere to as I seek to carry the challenges.”
Congressman Reynante Arrogancia’s unparalleled service and dedication to the constituents of the Third District of Quezon is anchored on the principle of “Responsableng Aruga”, ensuring the welfare and effective deliverance of services to the people of Bondoc Peninsula.
Bondoc Peninsula has witnessed a milestone as they welcomed their new Representative who conscientiously delivers responsive legislations and the utilization of institutional programs that can be of benefit to the constituents of the district such as infrastructures, social services, and other programs of the government.
As a legislator, Rep. Arrogancia remains faithful to his principle of “Responsableng Aruga” by advocating the passage of bills that adhere to environmental protection, tourism development, enhancement of agricultural services, and social protection of vulnerable sectors, among others.
HON. ERIC R. BUHAIN, OLY
(Batangas, First District)
“As an Olympian who served the government in various capacity, I hope to continue serving my fellow Filipinos. In terms of policies and initiatives, tourism promotion in my District is foremost as it creates jobs that stimulates the economy. Second, promotion of programs for the development of our agriculture and aquaculture industry to help in the government’s efforts towards food security. Lastly. to champion initiatives that will make sports more accessible and inclusive for our youth.”
District representatives have many roles and responsibilities on the job. Among all the titles they can assume, Rep. Buhain took on the position of the champion of his district. There’s no nitpicking for the legislator, as he pays close attention to every sector and how he can understand his constituents and address their problems. He also encourages his public to participate in events, whether for leisure or business, to make the most of them.
Some examples of his efforts in his district are organizing vaccination drives for children, providing new opportunities to boost the tourism sector, and amplifying the vibrant culture of Batangas. He also provides medical and financial assistance for an inclusive service to his district.
As for his efforts in the House of Representatives, he’s the principal author of bills like granting health care, retirement, and other privileges to retired Filipino Olympians, strengthening the Games and Amusement Board, and promoting entrepreneurship by establishing a sustainable financing program for micro and small enterprises through the Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-Asenso Program.
HON. JOSE ARTURO S. GARCIA JR.
(Rizal, Third District)
One of the things that Filipinos in Rizal’s Third District can expect from Rep. Garcia is his guarantee of service with a heart. As a public servant, he keeps a close relationship with the people to ensure he’s up-to-date with their needs and wants, even though he anticipates their demands for development. He also watches his projects closely to ensure it gets done on time.
Rep. Garcia embraces the prospects of technology in bringing improvements to his district but also considers how it impacts the environment. He implemented solar lights along several roads and road rehabilitation projects in his jurisdiction. Rep. Garcia distributes financial assistance for various daily needs, like education, medicine, and livelihood.
His contributions to the 19th Congress include declaring the City of Cagayan de Oro a mining-free zone and providing penalties, granting tax exemptions and subsidies for the local film and music industries, and providing for the automatic income classification of provinces, cities, and municipalities.
HON. EDWARD S. HAGEDORN
(Palawan, First District)
“I re-emerged in the political arena to bring holistic development in the Third District of Palawan, advocating environmental protection and preservation, and promotion of sustainable tourism. To this end, I filed bills in Congress seeking for the declaration of the West Philippine Sea as a marine protected area and reclassification of lands, among others.”
Rep. Hagedorn established his credibility with his constituents as the mayor of Puerto Princesa. He is recognized as a champion of the environment, tourism, agriculture, and peace and order throughout his years of public service making him known as the “pambansang mayor.” His tenure highlighted the award-winning Puerto Princesa Underground River as the New Seven Wonders of Nature after working for its inclusion in UNESCO’s world heritage list, and because of his sterling leadership, he was given the United Nations Global 500 Roll of Honour Award in 1997.
His experience as a long-time local executive gave him the cognizance to come into his own in the House of Representatives. In the Congress today, Rep. Hagedorn is advocating for the protection and preservation of the West Philippine Sea, reclassification of alienable and disposable lands in certain barangays of Aborlan, conversion of the Salvacion-Sabang Road that leads to the Underground River in Puerto Princesa into a national road, establishment of the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority, and the declaration of March 30 as a special non-working holiday in Puerto Princesa City in commemoration of its pronouncement as the “City of the Living God.”
Besides those legislations, the lawmaker is currently maximizing technology to promote awareness among the Palaweños about his ongoing and upcoming endeavors leading the Third District of Palawan to greater heights.
HON. CHARISSE ANNE C. HERNANDEZ-ALCANTARA
(Calamba City, Lone District)
“I have been well immersed with people from all walks of life. Knowing their stories pushes me to be more compassionate, humble, and active in advocating my brand of politics. My values and aspirations promote measures that have immediate significance to the lives of my constituents – health, education, and livelihood.”
Although district representatives need to maintain an air of respect, Rep. Hernandez-Alcantara branded herself as the “Ate” or elder sister among her constituents. More than that, she also took the mantle as their champion who ensures that residents of Calamba will be aptly represented in the 19th Congress and ensures they feel the benefits from the district’s budget. Her youth brings a fresh perspective to a historically significant city in the Philippines.
Rep. Hernandez-Alcantara advocates numerous movements and empowers every community in her district. She provides materials and equipment to the youth so they can enjoy what they love doing, whether sports or arts related. Since her goal is to ensure everyone experiences the benefits from the government’s budget, she is always present to distribute assistance to the residents of Calamba.
She is also the principal author of bills in the 19th Congress, including creating policies for the protection and welfare of caregivers, instituting guidelines for the protection and promotion of the workers’s welfare or independent contractors in the film, television, and radio entertainment industry, and expanding the coverage of the mandatory basic immunization program and providing a system in the determination of other types of vaccine-preventable diseases.
HON. GERVILLE “JINKY BITRICS” R. LUISTRO
(Batangas, Second District)
Rep. Luistro, also known as “Jinky Bitrics” in her district, embodies the sunshine to her constituents by inspiring them to seize the day and consider it a blessing. She’s known for her service with a smile as she works energetically with the national government and local government units to provide the advantages Filipinos deserve as the country moves toward modernization and becoming globally competitive in various sectors or industries.
Besides distributing financial assistance from government agencies and hosting several programs to encourage communities to embrace their passions, Rep. Luistro also focuses on infrastructure and road rehabilitation initiatives in Batangas’s Second District to improve accessibility and boost the local economy and tourism as other advantages.
On the other hand, she principally authored bills in the 19th Congress, such as promoting open access in data transmission and providing additional powers to the National Telecommunications Commission, expanding the prohibited acts of discrimination against women on account of sex, providing for universal educational assistance to all senior high school, technical-vocational, and college students.
HON. MA. RENE ANN LOURDES G. MATIBAG
(Laguna, First District)
“As a LaguNanay, I aim to protect the welfare of every child. Through the ratification of HB 1486, I aspire to provide equal opportunity for children to take exams despite financial obligations. I firmly believe that education will pave the way towards my dream of a bright future for our children.”
Congresswoman Ann Matibag is a champion of women empowerment and social responsibility. As the “LaguNanay on the Go,” she has proven that being a mother who nurtures and cares for her constituents and family is what her district needs. She tirelessly puts people first and advocates for the welfare of women, mothers, and children. Her programs, under the moniker “Ang Magandang Bukas,” give everyone better opportunities and access to government services to improve their quality of life and a brighter future.
Rep. Matibag’s policies advocate on behalf of all members of various communities and continues her efforts towards the actualization of her ABAKADA platform – Ayuda, BAkuna, KAbuhayan at Direksyon – through her financial, medical and burial assistances, free vaccinations for women, children, and elders, monthly medical mission for seniors, scholarship programs for the youth, livelihood opportunities to myriad sectors, including LGBT groups, and various infrastructure projects.
Rep. Matibag stays true to her role as the LaguNanay of San Pedro. She is the principal author of HB 1486 or the “Anti-No Permit, No Exam Act” which aims to protect financially disadvantaged children from discrimination and unfair treatment at school. Through this, Rep. Matibag aims to secure the bright future of our youth through education.
Her initiatives in the 19th Congress through principally authored bills also include encouraging social responsibility, prohibiting any form of discrimination based on ethnicity, race, religion, age, sex, gender, orientation, language, disability, educational attainment, economic status, health, and other standards.
HON. ARNAN C. PANALIGAN
(Oriental Mindoro, First District)
There’s more to Rep. Panaligan than being the Representative of the First District of Oriental Mindoro. He has the distinction of being the first City Mayor and one of the founders of Calapan City when it was converted from a municipality on March 21, 1998. He served as mayor of Calapan for two nine-year terms or a total of 18 years. His years as mayor were characterized by the rapid development of Calapan earning for him the title of The City Builder. In between his terms as city mayor, Rep. Panaligan served as Governor of Oriental Mindoro. During his term as governor, he constructed the new Oriental Mindoro Provincial Hospital. His passion for public service and dedication to the people that he serves have earned for him their trust as evidenced in the successive mandates that they have given to him as city mayor, governor and now as congressman.
Rep. Panaligan’s desire to make a difference in the lives of the people and to contribute to nation building motivated him to enter politics and seek public office. He believes that occupying an elective position is one way to make or influence policy making that can impact on the life of the nation.
That is the reason why in Congress, Rep. Panaligan has authored various bills that encompass a wide range of topics such as agriculture, economics, industry, entrepreneurship, health, education, environmental conservation, local governance, national defense and security and other vital sectors.
Although a freshman legislator, Rep. Panaligan was entrusted by the leadership of the House of Representatives headed by Speaker Martin Romualdez with a big responsibility as member of eleven vital committees and as one of the Assistant House Majority Leaders.
HON. CRISPIN DIEGO “PING” REMULLA
(Cavite, Seventh District)
Following in his father’s footsteps, the younger Rep. Remulla wasted no time proving that he was beyond capable of assuming and maintaining the role of a district representative. His mission in the office is to continue the developments made before him, but with his personal touch of service that recognizes every Filipino’s relevance as a catalyst of change. He’s also a dependable father figure and efficient district representative to his constituents.
Besides establishing a connection with his constituents from frequent interactions, Rep. Remulla stays on top of what goes around his district. He spearheads collaborations and efforts like doling out burial, medical, and cash assistance to those who require it, among other things.
One of his principally authored bills in the House of Representatives focuses on providing better compensation in his region and its neighboring areas, namely, a resolution urging the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to review and revise to increase the daily minimum wage rates per wage order in the CALABARZON region.
HON. RAMON “JOLO” B. REVILLA III
(Cavite, First District)
“Inclusive growth; I seek to uplift the lives of those in the significant sectors of society such as our barangay officials, health workers, teachers, laborers, and seafarers; uphold the rights of every individual, especially those in the LGBT community; and, help our youth with their education via a scholarship program while imbuing with them a vision of success coupled with service to fellow Filipinos.”
Even though some Filipinos know Rep. Revilla as an actor, to the residents of Cavite’s First District, he is their ever-reliable district representative. He brought his creativity and efficiency to the office to provide his constituents with new experiences that present opportunities to improve Filipinos’ lives.
Coming from a political family, Rep. Revilla draws inspiration and wisdom from the accomplishments of those who came before him, but didn’t shy away from making a name for himself. He is also the proponent of numerous programs available throughout Cavite’s First District, including distributing business packages to budding entrepreneurs, educational scholarships, and medical assistance. Rep. Revilla is a hands-on representative as he takes time to interact with his constituents during the distribution of various assistance so he can listen to their concerns, especially during the aftermath of Typhoon Paeng last November 2022, and the fire incident in Cavite City last April 2023 which affected more than 600 families.
He is also active in the House of Representatives as a principal author of various bills such as providing a P150 daily across-the-board wage increase in the employees and workers of the private sector, and granting sanitary leave of one day a month with 100 percent remuneration to all female employees.
HON. EDGARDO L. SALVAME
(Palawan, First District)
“Northern Palawan—the District I represent—is the ‘World’s Best Island Destination.’ It is home to the majestic islands and beautiful beaches of Coron, El Nido, Cuyo (Amanpulo), San Vicente (Long Beach), Roxas (Banua Private Resort), Taytay (Apulit), and Cagayancillo (Tubattaha), thus, our infrastructure and quality of life should also improve, and be at par with its brand, i.e. ‘world-class infrastructure and quality of life.’ I thought I can help develop it further with my previous background and expertise in the private sector, and at the same time, give special attention to the needs of our residents from the far-flung islands and sitios myself being a local who grew up in an island (Casian, Taytay) who used to fish and trade fish as my main source of livelihood during my earlier years.
My top legislative and development agenda revolves around:
Local economic recovery and development through “land reclassification”; implementation of sustainable livelihood programs; and attraction of investments that will create sustainable industries, long-term jobs, and decent income for our people, among others; Provision of funding and support to infrastructure that will boost our recovering tourism industry in the District, such as a reliable power supply and distribution, well-equipped hospitals, and accessible healthcare system (conversion of two local hospitals into tourism medical centers), sewerage treatment plants and drainage systems, and better roads that lead to tourism destinations and local industries, including farmlands; I’d like to see our government working for the best interest of our people, thus, I am always in full support of proposed legislations that will bring our government closer and “felt” by our people.”
Among the values, a district representative should have as a public official is a genuine compassion for the region they represent. It allows them to see what needs to be done according to the dwellers’ perspective. Being the district representative for Palawan’s First District, Rep. Salvame is creating a Palawan for those with a deep admiration and sense of patriotism for the region. Not only does he empower the Filipinos residing in the region, but he also preserves the area’s natural elements.
Rep. Salvame spearheads various rehabilitation projects in his jurisdiction, like a water system project in several barangays to provide potable water to its residents. He’s also prioritizing infrastructure initiatives in far-flung islands and provinces to offer accessibility to Filipinos. The lawmaker also doles out cash assistance to farmers and other members of different communities.
Meanwhile, his efforts in the 19th Congress include regulating the use of treatment technology for municipal and hazardous wastes, providing the enabling environment to foster the growth of public-private partnerships for infrastructure and other development projects, and providing additional guidelines in the acquisition of right-of-way sites, or location for national government infrastructure projects.
HON. KEITH MICAH “ATTY. MIKE”D.L. TAN
(Quezon Province, Fourth District)
“I want to sustain and build on the HEALING (Health, Education, Agriculture, Livelihood, Infrastructure, Nature and Environment/Tourism, and Good Governance) Agenda and advocacies of my parents. As a neophyte lawmaker, I hope to champion youth empowerment, legal assistance for the poor, and entrepreneurship.”
Besides having a passion for serving Filipinos, Rep. Tan is also a lawyer with a commendable knowledge of the statutes governing the country. He uses his expertise in the subject to establish his credibility in the House of Representatives and prove that he has the brains and heart to lead Filipinos toward a brighter tomorrow. Rep. Tan describes his service as authentic and natural because of his genuine devotion to his country and fellowmen.
Rep. Tan’s programs and projects in his district have one goal: to benefit his constituents in the region. Aside from focusing on infrastructure efforts to expand opportunities, Rep. Tan also leads initiatives like assisting farmers and indigenous communities and encouraging the youth to embrace education and modern developments.
On the other hand, Rep. Tan focuses on medical endeavors in the House Representatives, having principally authored bills like providing for the modernization of the public health emergency preparedness and response capabilities, providing for the stockpiling of strategic and critical drugs and medicines, vaccines, devices, and materials for public health emergencies, and authorizing the Department of Health (DOH) to set and approve the bed capacities of all its hospitals.
HON. EMIGDIO P. TANJUATCO III
(Rizal, Second District)
“The body work exemplified by my father, former Cong. Ding Tanjuatco, served as my inspiration to pursue a career in public service. After 12 years of service as a Provincial Board Member for the second district of the Province of Rizal, my current position allows me to continue to develop industry, education, and livelihood programs for the betterment of my constituents.”
Hailing from a family with a long line of history and connections in politics, Rep. Tanjuatco managed to find a way to stand out himself, and show what he could bring to the table in the House of Representatives. He works consistently and efficiently, often seen on-site across Rizal to share his expertise and lead others with a similar perspective anchored on development and creating new opportunities.
People know that Rep. Tanjuatco focuses on infrastructure projects throughout Rizal, which he frequently visits to ensure efficient, secure, and timely completion. Beyond that, he keeps his office doors open to welcome courtesy calls from organizations and everyday Filipinos who want to share their concerns and call upon his services.
In the meantime, Rep. Tanjuatco keeps busy by maintaining a presence in the House of Representatives as a principal author of bills like mandating the national government to allocate funds for potable water access and the construction of water systems in all barangays, providing a comprehensive renal replacement therapy (RRT) for patients with end-stage renal disease in national, regional, and provincial government hospitals, and institutionalizing the “Pondo Para sa Pagbabago at Pag-Asenso Program” to provide a sustainable socialized microfinancing program for micro-enterprises.
HON. LEODY “ODIE” F. TARRIELA
(Occidental Mindoro, Lone District)
Despite being a neophyte in the 19 th Congress with no political background, Cong. Odie, as he is fondly called, is the congressman of Occidental Mindoro who helped resolve the province’s decades-long electricity crisis. By actively seeking support of various government agencies, he helped transform Occidental Mindoro from being the country’s “brownout capital” into a self-reliant electrification area in less than a year after assuming office. It is also during his first year as congressman that Occidental Mindoro saw a record increase in its share of national budget allocation for infrastructure, health, education, and social services, allowing the province to accelerate its socioeconomic development. He hails from the Island Municipality of Looc. Through his hardwork, he established businesses that provide livelihood for thousands of workers from his home province. He was elected Rotary Governor of R.I. District 3810 for RY 2020-2021. His active work in socio-civic organizations enabled him to further grasp the challenges faced by his people, which also became the reason why he chose to purse public service. After resolving the power crisis, Cong. Odie’s new mission is to advance government support for the agricultural sector. His House Bill 7781 seeks to establish the Cooperative Apex Bank of the Philippines to provide small farmers and fisherfolks broader access to financing pportunities, shielding them from usurious rates of loan sharks. His priority bills also include the promotion of corporate social responsibility, establishment of more government hospitals in his province, and the modernization of the Philippine Coast Guard, among others. With his passion to his work and dedication to improving the lives of his fellow Mindoreños, one can truly say that indeed Ok si Odie Tarriela!
HON. ANIELA BIANCA D. TOLENTINO
(Cavite, Eight District)
“I entered this path to be able to positively touch lives and make lasting changes for future generations. Issues such as healthcare and education will always be essential, but a great deal of my advocacies focus on the environment because we often overlook the essentiality of our natural resources to human survival.”
Beauty and brains are some of the adjectives that could best describe Rep. Tolentino. As a district representative, she shines her presence on her constituents to show that she’s ready to lead them into a brighter future. She extends her compassion and service to every resident of Cavite’s Eight District, making her one of the top-performing lawmakers in the region. Rep. Tolentino’s constituents also know her for her warm smile and endearing personality.
Rep. Tolentino distributes various assistance programs to her district’s residents, whether young, old, or from underserved communities. She doesn’t choose who to serve as her services encompass those under her jurisdiction. The district representative also encourages Filipinos to embrace the changes brought about by technological advancements.
She’s also the principal author of various bills in the House of Representatives like regulating the disposal of electronic equipment at solid waste management facilities and requiring the establishment of recovery and collection facilities, establishing a national scholarship program for studies in nuclear science and nuclear engineering, and allowing the use of waste-to-energy technology in electricity, fuel, and heat generation.