"Here's to being the best version of ourselves."
2018 was a historic and eventful year for the House of Representatives. Congress was able to make notable accomplishments in terms of relevant legislative investigations and passage of bills. The 2019 budget appears on a standstill, but I am hopeful that this will be passed by next month.
As we welcome 2019, I am positive that the last six months in Congress will be more fruitful.
1 – Increase in Employment. In 2018, I expressed my concern on the rising poverty and unemployment of many Filipinos. The PCSO has thankfully responded to our call by providing employment through its Small Town Lottery program to those who have difficulty in getting jobs due to age and lack of education. This 2019, one of my wishes is to expand and increase opportunities for employment that will provide Filipinos with reasonable sources of income. In the long run, it is hoped that there will be less hunger and more joy to the people as they rise above poverty—that they will be able to send children to school, afford quality healthcare, and maintain decent living.
2- Fair, honest and violence-free elections. I wish for nothing more.
3 – Peace and Order. I pray that we all work together to curb corruption and maintain peace and order in the country. Let us continue praying for peace in the country especially in Mindanao. I call on all concerned government agencies to hasten the rehabilitation of the affected areas in the Marawi siege and help the people recover from the damages in their livelihood.
As Minority Leader, I commit myself to another year of service to the nation for the betterment of our country. I invite my fellow legislators and other public officials to join me in welcoming 2019 by fulfilling a wish list that is dedicated to the benefit and welfare of the Filipino people. As individuals, let us commit to becoming the best versions of ourselves. A good way to start, as Ellen de Generes always advises in her show, be kind. Let’s be kinder to ourselves, our families, our loved ones, our country and the world we live in.”‹ “‹
