Pres. Bongbong Marcos Speaks on Call for Local Leaders in these Challenging Times
BONGBONG MARCOS – The President said the Philippines needs leaders “to step forward and to lead the change” in these challenging times.
Severe tropical storm Kristine lashed out in the Philippines most especially in Luzon. Several areas in the country were left flooded after the typhoon brought heavy rains and strong winds. The Bicol region is one of those areas that were severly hit by the storm.
In Naga City, a shopping mall was left flooded due to severe tropical storm Kristine. Countless people lost their houses and livelihoods to the calamity and many went through life-threatening situations in the pursuit of survival from the storm.
Amid the Philippines grappling with the effects of tropical storm Kristine, Pres. Bongbong Marcos called on the local chief executives to step up and lead the change. Based on a report on GMA News, the Chief Executive stressed that it will help create a more resilient future.
”And in these challenging times, our country needs leaders, innovators, and true public servants to step forward and to lead the change — change that we will help us create a more resilient and better future for our children,” the President said during the 2024 Galing Pook Awards.
Based on the report, Marcos Jr. also emphasized the importance of recognizing the different programs initiated by the local leaders which he described to be “very innovative” and show “out of the box thinking”. According to him, he is proud of what the local leaders have accomplished.
“You did not wait for solutions to come from the national level; you took the initiative and handled it effectively,” the President said.
Galing Pook awarded 10 local programs at the Ceremonial Hall in Malacañang Palace. Based on the report, here are the 10 programs recognized at the event:
- Project Teaching Opportunities Prioritizing Illiteracy (Cabagan, Isabela): An education program aimed at eradicating illiteracy through tailored learning interventions, with a focus on marginalized and disadvantaged populations;
- Pag-asa sa Bagong Bahay (Pandi, Bulacan): A housing program that not only provides shelter but also fosters a sense of community and empowerment among its beneficiaries;
- Ating Dibdibin Program (Taguig City): A health initiative offering comprehensive breast cancer screening and care, ensuring that women receive the support and treatment they need in a timely manner;
- Balanga Community-based Ecotourism Zone (Balanga City, Bataan): A model for sustainable ecotourism, combining environmental conservation with local economic development;
- Saving Kan: A Love Story In Ormoc Bay (Marine Mammal and Reptile Rehabilitation Center) (Ormoc City): An innovative rehabilitation center that protects and restores marine biodiversity, emphasizing the importance of marine life in sustaining coastal ecosystems;
- Safe Spaces and Safeguarding Children: Strengthening LGU-led Community-Based Child Protection in Valenzuela City (Valenzuela City): A comprehensive child protection program that addresses child abuse, exploitation, and violence, promoting a culture of safeguarding the most vulnerable;
- Breathing Life into the Ayta Magbukun: A Collaborative Initiative for Language Restoration in Bataan (Bataan Province): A cultural preservation initiative that restores and revitalizes the Ayta Magbukun language, strengthening indigenous identity and heritage;
- Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences and Technology: The First Local College in Davao Region (Kapalong, Davao del Norte): Pioneering access to higher education in agriculture and sciences for underserved communities, bridging education and economic opportunity in rural areas;
- Puerto Galera Waste Water Management (Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro): A comprehensive approach to addressing wastewater management challenges in a tourist-heavy destination, safeguarding both public health and environmental sustainability; and
- Quezon City Birth Registration Online (QC BRO) (Quezon City): A groundbreaking digital solution providing efficient, accessible, and secure birth registration services to ensure that every child’s right to identity is fulfilled;