Women in positions of power are proving to be transformative change. As they ascend to leadership roles, they bring a unique perspective and a deep-rooted commitment to addressing the challenges women and marginalized communities face.
These women are not merely occupying seats of authority; they are actively shaping policies, allocating resources, and implementing programs that empower women economically, socially, and politically.
Their influence extends beyond gender equality, as their leadership often translates to improved healthcare, education, and infrastructure, benefiting entire communities. These trailblazing women are redefining the government, demonstrating that inclusive leadership is essential for building a more equitable and prosperous society.
One such example is Ilocos Sur Second District Representative Kristine Singson, now in her second term as a legislator and Deputy Speaker, who remains steadfast in her commitment to serve the Ilocano people with dedication and compassion, both in her constituency and in the halls of Congress.
As a dedicated advocate for women’s rights, Rep. Singson started the Puso ti Kababaihan, an organization that empowers women from the 23 towns of the 2nd District of Ilocos Sur. This initiative helps them become partners in community building through skills and livelihood training opportunities.
Rep. Singson envisions a future for her district where women are empowered and free to realize their full potential. Even during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, she supported households and frontline workers through the women’s organization by distributing and repacking food assistance.
As a testament to her dedication in the lower house of Congress, Deputy Speaker Kristine Singson’s legislative milestones reflect an array of interests and priorities that aim to address critical issues in the country. As of date, she has filed 195 principally authored and 94 co-authored house bills. Among her notable authored bills in the 19th Congress that have become law are Republic Act 11904 (the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act), Republic Act 11976 (the Internet Transaction Act of 2023), and Republic Act 1201 (the Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act).
The esteemed district representative also believed that healthcare should be accessible to all. During the 18th Congress, Rep Singson filed House Bill No. 7146, establishing the Ilocos Sur Medical Center to provide comprehensive healthcare services across the province through the Universal Healthcare Act. She understood that her constituents travel two to three hours to access a complete healthcare facility. The Ilocos Sur Medical Center bill became law in April 2022.
She has also significantly boosted the local economy and ensured the long-term growth of Candon City by leading the development and construction of the Candon City Airport, funded through the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2022 and 2024, with a total budget of 470 million pesos.
Besides her contributions to the House of Representatives, the Second District of Ilocos Sur also feels her leadership.
As a mother of four, she believes the youth are catalysts for a better tomorrow. Rep. Singson continuously provides educational through scholarships and allowances, offering opportunities through programs such as the Tulong Dunong Program (TDP), the College Educational Assistance Program (CEAP), and the Congressman Eric D. Singson Scholarship Grant (CEDSSG).
In partnership with DOLE, Rep. Singson supports young professionals in gaining work experience in public service through the Government Internship Program (GIP). This program aids local government units (LGUs) by supplementing their workforce with individuals contributing to various initiatives and projects.
Under the leadership of her son, Zachary Singson, and with her guidance, they spearheaded the youth organization Puso ti Agtutubo, which aims to empower young people to become servant leaders, community entrepreneurs, and catalysts for change. Rep. Singson advocates to keep the youth active and engaged, fostering their potential as future world changers.
Through collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), she supports Ilocanos in gaining employment and livelihood opportunities via the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP), enhancing their employability and chances to start their livelihoods.
She also partnered with TESDA, Candon LGU, the Candon City Culinary Arts Academy (CCCAA), and the Center for Culinary Arts Manila to conduct an intensive 6-month culinary training with professional chefs through its Special Training for Employment Program.
Additionally, through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) Program, in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment, displaced or disadvantaged workers in Ilocos Sur can secure emergency work for at least 10 days.
Through the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Grant, she also helped members of the Puso ti Mannalon, a district-wide organization founded by Rep. Singson that streamlines programs and assistance to farmers and fisherfolks and other associations in the district with existing livelihood programs.
Rep. Singson also helps calamity and disaster victims through financial assistance in partnership with DSWD’s Livelihood Settlement Grant, such as farmers whose livelihoods were affected by typhoons.
Seeing the significance of agriculture as one of the drivers of the local economy in her district, Rep. Singson consistently supports tobacco, rice, and corn farmers by providing necessary resources such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides annually. Farmers also receive equipment and machinery funded by the district’s share of excise taxes from tobacco products, as mandated by RA 7171 and RA 8240.
Moreover, the district representative has initiated livelihood programs for farmers, including the Goat Farming Program and the Gulayan sa Barangay Program, which aim to enhance food security and provide additional income for her farmer constituents and their families.
With Rep. Singson at the helm, Ilocos’s Second District is working towards an inclusive future that champions diversity within all sectors. She is undoubtedly proving that women legislators are making relevant changes in office for the good of all Filipinos.
