Lanao del Sur’s second district, a region nestled in the heart of Mindanao, is a treasure trove of rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and complex political dynamics. Its breathtaking landscapes are a sight to behold, but it’s the diverse ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions and historical significance, that truly captivate the imagination.
This diversity is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Filipino people, and a source of pride for all who call this region home.
Meanwhile, the political landscape of Lanao del Sur’s second district, as intricate as its cultural heritage, is also a story of resilience and progress. Despite a history of conflict and political unrest, the district has made significant strides in recent years, improving security and promoting development. This progress offers a beacon of hope, signaling a brighter future on the horizon.
The leaders of the second district play a crucial role in safeguarding its integrity and ensuring a brighter future. Through effective governance, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, they strive to address the region’s pressing issues, such as poverty, education, and healthcare. These leaders are working to create a more prosperous and equitable future for the district by promoting peace, fostering economic growth, and empowering local communities. In the 19th Congress, that responsibility falls on the shoulders of Rep. Yasser Alonto Balindong, who also serves as the House of Representatives’ Deputy Speaker since November 2023.
Rep. Balindong assumed the position of district representative in 2019. Before that, he was an assemblyman for the Regional Legislative Assembly for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) from 2005 to 2016. The district representative also draws some of his inspiration for being a deputy speaker and public leader from his father, Atty. Pangalian Balindong, who served as the Former House Deputy Speaker and current Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliament Speaker.
Since assuming office in the House of Representatives, Rep. Balindong has made notable contributions through programs and projects in Lanao del Sur’s second district. Rep. Balindong spearheaded the distribution of Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), a kind of social safety net or emergency plan designed to help people and families recover from unforeseen crises like illness or the death of a family member, medical and financial assistance, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Scholarships, and various Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) training.
Meanwhile, the district representative’s projects focused on building infrastructure to promote economic growth, agricultural security, and connectivity throughout Lanao del Sur’s second district. Some of his projects include the construction of national roads, including the Marawi-Malabang and Ganassi Roads, local roads, multipurpose buildings, water systems, irrigations, and flood control structures. These projects left an undeniable impact in the area, thereby improving the constituents’ lives.
In the 19th Congress, Rep. Balindong is the principal author of 92 bills and co-authored 19 others. His legislations span different focuses, from human rights to health and more.
Some of his key legislations include Republic Act No. 11696 or the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022, House Bill No. 10261 or an act providing for the condonation of unpaid interests, penalties, surcharges, and unremitted universal charges on the overdue obligations of the Lanao del Sur Electric Cooperative, Inc., and gave the privilege speech on the utilization of public funds for the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos’ coordination and management of the Hajj Pilgrimage and ensuring compliance with mandated standards.
Other bills that Rep. Balindong authored are Republic Act Nos. 11884, 11870, and 11885, all of which aim to increase the bed capacity of the Balindong District Hospital in Wato-Balindong, Serapio B. Montaner Jr. Memorial Hospital in Malabang, and the Unayan Municipal Hospital in Binidayan, respectively.
Besides being the Deputy Speaker, Rep. Balindong is also the Vice Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation and Victims Compensation and the Committee on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity.
When he became the Deputy Speaker of the 19th Congress, Rep. Balindong promised the House of Representatives that, despite the leadership change, he would protect the chamber’s honor and integrity.
As he continues to hold an office in the House of Representatives and serve as the voice of Lanao del Sur’s second district, Rep. Balindong maintains integrity in everything he does while ensuring that he puts his constituents first, no matter the circumstances.
Lanao del Sur’s second district, a region rich in cultural heritage and political complexity, is poised for a brighter future. Rep. Yasser Alonto Balindong, Deputy Speaker and district representative is at the forefront of this transformation. Under his leadership, the district has witnessed significant strides in infrastructure development, social welfare programs, and legislative initiatives. As the region continues to navigate its challenges, Rep. Balindong’s commitment to serve his constituents and promote progress remains a beacon of hope for Lanao del Sur’s second district as it continues toward a brighter and more modern future.
