It is my distinct and singular honor to be elected as the new President of the League of Provinces. I assume this post as the representative of all local government officials who champion local autonomy as the strategy for national development.
The League has become a powerful instrument in the formulation of policies that directly contribute to our people’s growth. We shall not waver in our commitment to serve as an effective tool for the promotion of our people’s rights and welfare.
Having been in the public service for more than twenty years, I bring with me a vision that will make the League a necessary partner of the national government in the struggle to free our people from fear and want. We shall exploit every opportunity that will bring us closer to our people’s aspiration of a progressive nation.
I therefore invite all our Governors to continue supporting the League, and participate in all our activities that seek to make it a more relevant and responsive institution of advocacy and service. Your enduring and indispensable support will provide the greater impetus towards realizing our twin goals of genuine local autonomy and national development.
I also invite all sectors of society to help us work for the greater allocation of resources, powers and authorities to local governments. These are the means by which efficient delivery of basic services to our people are guaranteed and provide them equal opportunities for growth.
I take the task at hand both as a challenge, and a chance to build upon the gains of the past, and to break new grounds for the future. With your support, this leadership will prove equal to this test for our own good and for the good of all.
Maraming Salamat at Mabuhay Po Kayong Lahat!