Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013 by SMIPHL

OUTSTANDING LOCAL LEGISLATOR AWARD

2013

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

CREDITS

CHAIRMAN Superbrand Marketing International Inc. Karl McLean PRESIDENT & CEO Superbrand Marketing International Inc. Harry Tambuatco MARKETING DIRECTOR Superbrand Marketing International Inc. Larry Brouhard LEGAL COUNSEL Atty. Sara Jane Suguitan SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER Kenneth Rocete GRAPHIC DESIGNER Richelle Lim MARKETING STAFF Corazon Villanueva FINANCE Nelia Villarete SMI offices are located at the Makati Central Business District with address: 1908 – 88 Corporate Center Building 141 Sedeño Street corner Valero, Salcedo Village Makati City Tel. 728-8880 Fax. 7581220 www.superbrands.com.ph The logo is subject to copyright of Superbrand Marketing International Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or any other storage or retrieval system relating too all or part of the text, photographs, or logo types without written permission of the publishers.

S FOREWORD

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

MI has been prompted to take recognizant of our Local Legislators all over the country who may be in the back room but regulate in their respective areas and communities legislating relevant laws and ordinances that keep civil society humming if not for commerce, the freedoms enshrined in our constitution. We pay homage to our Local Legislators who have to deal with the sensitive balancing acts between business and public service. While there are obviously some conflict issues with regards to our freedoms, the national patrimony does not necessarily take precedence above all liberties. Local legislation keeps the forces at bay to serve their communities first above all. The Outstanding Local Legislators Award is not about good, better or best. It is not a contest to determine Outstanding as to being number one or being First. It is all about the brand, or the consistent delivery of the brand promise generating integrity making them the brand. While many are already “Outstanding” in their own right having received the mandate from the people thru the power of the vote – to receive the nomination and to participate in this Outstanding Local Legislators Award is the true testament towards services rendered to the people highlighted not by government alone but by an independent award giving body; Superbrands Marketing International Inc. Superbrands awards products and services worldwide. The Outstanding project is a commitment by SMI to uphold and recognize key government positions and professionals who are involved with nation building. We congratulate the nominees and participants of the Outstanding Local Legislator who in 2103 have made the mark and the commitment to serve their constituents. Public Service is not necessarily what many perceive it to be other than the derogatory statements irresponsible critiques generate without proof or veracity. To generate the commitment required of the people towards their leaders is proof of satisfaction given their chosen vote. Public Service most often is misconstrued towards a charity aimlessly accepted by the people; it is about vision, it is about commitment, it is about a competence to lead the people towards prosperity and independence. SMI celebrates the Outstanding Local Legislator Awards with the competence and sustaining projects and advocacies that are compiled in this publication. The nature of Local Legislators; 1 Metropolitan Government; 1 Autonomous Regional Government; 1 Special Administrative Region; 78 Provinces; 67 Cities; 1,600 Municipalities; and 42,000 Barangays Local governments in the Philippines have their roots in the colonial administration of Spain, which lasted in the Philippines for some 327 years. The last 50 years of the present century saw several developments towards decentralization. The Local Autonomy Act of 1959, the passage of the Barrio Charter and the Decentralization Act of 1967 were all incremental national legislations in response to the clamor for a self-rule concept. The Philippine Constitutions of 1972 and 1987 also significantly influenced the movement for political devolution. The Local Government Code is a most comprehensive document on local government touching on structures, functions and powers, including taxation and intergovernmental relations. Local governments have four major categories of functions: Efficient service delivery; Management of the environment; Economic development; and Poverty alleviation. The Local Government Code Section 447 (Municipal Governments), section 458 (City Governments) and section 468 (Provincial Governments) define the functions and powers of the different local authorities. The provisions are standard and descriptive of the functions and powers of local government and are similar to the provisions of Section 468 for Provinces. They stipulate that: “The Sangguniang Panlalawigan”, as the legislative body of the province, shall enact ordinances, approve resolutions and appropriate funds for the general welfare of the province and its inhabitants pursuant to Section 16 of this code and in proper exercise of the corporate powers of the province as provided for under Section 22 of this code. Public-private partnership at the local levels is very much alive and well. The Constitution and the Local Government Code have provisions on the concept of the three P’s (Public Private Partnership). The 1987 Constitution has a separate provision on the roles and rights of People’s Organizations (POs) in public affairs and in local governance. It states that the State shall respect the role of independent POs to enable the people to pursue and protect, within the democratic framework, their legitimate and collective interests and aspirations through peaceful and lawful means. Civil societies are represented in various local development councils. Several administrative orders of the central government implementing the constitutional provision and the intention of the Local Government Code regarding public participation in general, require that all local councils in all levels should be represented by various NGOs and POs such as farmer cooperatives, fishermen’s associations etc. Several sectors of society like youth; women, farmers and other special groups have voices in the process of public decision making. A mandatory provision insofar as membership of POs and NGOs in development councils in all levels states is concerned is that they should represent 25 per cent of the total membership of these councils. Local legislative councils do not act local laws like tax ordinances with finality unless public hearings are conducted first. The idea of consulting people first before any taxes is adopted by the local legislative bodies is to operationalise the concept of representation by the constituencies through public hearings and consultation before the imposition of proposed local taxes. NGOs and POs are likewise very active in local development activities. These institutions work very closely with local authorities in attaining mutual community interests. Some 16,000 NGOs and POs undergo a process of accreditation that determines the types and classes of NGOs existing in all regions. The process includes the determination of the subjects and ideas NGOs advocate, such as environmental protection, legal issues and rights to development including lobbying efforts to protect/promote specific sectoral interests. There is no doubt there is a complexity rather than simplicity towards the responsibilities of our Local Legislators that requires recognition from the people in a bureaucracy than sustains Nation Building efforts we at times take for granted. Kudos to the 2013 Outstanding Local Legislators!

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

CONTENTS

HON. EARL JAMES C. AQUINO Vice Mayor - City of Alaminos, Pangasinan...............................7 JOSEPH M. DE GUZMAN City Councilor - City of San Fernando, La Union......................13 GARY JASON B. EJERCITO Board Member - Quezon Province.............................................19 JOSE ANTONIO “MARC” LEVISTE II Vice Governor - Province of Batangas.......................................25 VICENTE HOMER BAJAR REVIL Vice Governor - Masbate Province.............................................31 JOSE “BONG” JOSON-TEVES JR. Vice Governor - Provice of Catanduanes...................................37

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Hon. Earl James C. Aquino Vice Mayor - City of Alaminos, Pangasinan

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

HON. EARL JAMES C. AQUINO Aktibo sa Serbisyo!

2013 (to 2016): Vice Mayor, City of Alaminos, Pangasinan 2010 to 2013: City Councilor Sangguniang Panlungsod, City of Alaminos Committee Chairman Rules and Laws Agriculture and Aquatic Resources Member Alaminos City Personnel Selection Board SP Representative Public Law Enforcement Board Vice-President 1st District National Movement of Young Legislators Pangasinan Chapter 2007 to 2010: City Councilor Sangguniang Panlungsod, City of Alaminos Committee Chairman Agriculture and Aquatic Resources Board of Director National Movement of Young Legislators / Pangasinan Chapter

he Honorable Earl James Aquino is a cut above the rest. Believing in the old maxim that “governments do not solve problems, leaders do,” he set aside his personal ambition to become a successful businessman and started his political career at the young age of 23. His youth was never an issue; in fact, he capitalized on his idealism as a member of the youth sector to advocate for the well-being of young “Alaminians”. He strongly believes that hard work, competence, and dedication are the values that public servants need to have to genuinely uphold the common good. He became a politician not only because public service runs in his family and he is well loved by his city mates. Earl followed the footsteps of his mother, former three-term City Councilor Myrna Cabrito Aquino, and her late grandmother, Doña Josefa Dela Cruz Aquino, the first lady councilor of then municipality of Alaminos. Vice Earl, as he is now fondly called, has firm advocacies: the city government has to provide better opportunities for its constituents, especially in fighting poverty and addressing environmental degradation. In 2007, he served as chairman of the Sangguniang Panlungsod’s Committee on Agriculture and Aquatic Resources. Neophyte as he was then, he accepted the chairmanship. His diplomacy and discipline earned him the respect of his fellow councilors that in 2010, he retained his chairmanship and another committee was added to his able leadership—the Committee on Rules and Laws.

In 2009, he contributed to the passage of the Alaminos City Fisheries Code, ensuring better coastal resource management and adherence to fishery laws. City Ordinance 2009-04 provides for the regulation, utilization, protection, conservation, sustainable management and development of the fisheries, aquatic and coastal resources of the City in accordance with DA Administrative Order No. 3, series of 1998, otherwise known as the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998. With the passage of the Alaminos City Fisheries Code, the marine environment is protected, along with the small fishers. This, he believes, is important—that the bountiful marine life can be used equitably and sustained for the succeeding generations. With former Mayor Hernani A. Braganza as his leader and mentor, he learned to bring together various sectors and lead them toward the right path of governance and service in order to create positive results. Of his campaign platforms, his strongest advocacy was to strengthen the agricultural sector. He said food security is the answer to fighting poverty and hunger; hence, as the Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture, he influenced his fellow councilors in putting in place appropriate legislative support and providing an enabling environment for the city’s agriculture program to prosper. This benefits the agricultural community, which is 80% of the city’s population.

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Day of Forest at City’s Tree Park

Distribution of certified seeds to farmers Launching of Bright Child Program with DepEd Sec. Luistro

Granting of Scholarship to intelligent Alaminians

Enacting timely legislations

Awarding of cash incentives to top athletes

“Sako Mo Kabuhayan Ko” project implementation

Ground-breaking of Hundred Islands e-Kawayan Project

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013 He fully supported the city’s Agri-volution Program to address low farming yields. The program aimed to tackle food security concerns of the city’s rapidly growing population and, furthermore, develop the city of Alaminos into a net exporter and a major trading center of agricultural commodities in Western Pangasinan. The program’s several components include certified rice seed subsidy and rice seed production projects, organic agriculture program and others. Irrigation development and post-harvest facilities and farm mechanization were made available to farmers, helping reduce production cost and minimizing losses. Barangay food terminals were also established which he, himself, lobbied for in the Sangguniang Panlungsod, helping farmers / crop producers bring their products closer to the consumers.

Other noteworthy pieces of legislation he authored were Ordinance 2009-05 or the Zero Waste Ordinance and Ordinance 2011-08, the Anti-Littering Ordinance. These gave credence to the city government’s environmental protection initiative as it embarked on implementing Zero Waste Alaminos, a localization of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. Initiated in 2009 through a partnership with the Global AntiIncinerator Alliance, the city’s zero waste program established comprehensive strategies in battling solid waste, including backyard and barangay-level composting, source separation programs, and small-scale sorting facilities. The city’s Zero Waste City Ordinance details how collection of solid waste will be implemented and its conduct of public informationeducation-communication campaign, among other things.

To complete the city’s food self-sufficiency programs, sustainable agriculture as a climate change adaptation initiative through organic farming was launched. Hon. Aquino authored Ordinance 2011-01, which establishes the Organic Agriculture Support Fund in the City, allocating P1 million pesos, which proved to be a major contribution in broadening the support for organic farming. The city government’s interventions included training packages on organic agriculture, technical assistance and market linkage. There has been a decrease in production cost by up to 38%, alongside an increase in the number of farmers engaged in organic/natural farming. There is also a reduction of agricultural waste through recycling and composting.

To date, the city government owns/operates a centralized materials recovery facility (MRF) and has put in place programs for production of organic fertilizer, vermin-composting, seedling nursery, organic garden, trash bin production/recycling of discarded tires and a regular garbage collection service. Alongside these, 23 of the 39 barangays have their own MRF to date.

Hon. Aquino worked closely with the City Agriculture Office and has brought his advocacy down to the farmers. He dialogued with them and gave his full support to projects, like the Season-Long Organic Rice Production program under the Organikong Palayan Project. Through his able leadership, he obtained support and assistance from the city government and the private sector for the Sako Mo, Kabuhayan Ko Project, a backyard organic gardening program whose aim to is to promote additional livelihood/income generating project in the barangays that is also environment-friendly. The young legislator is also a passionate environmental advocate. For him, the key to encouraging more young people to be environmentally-conscious is not by mere lip service, but by implementing concrete plans and actions. He brought people to the heart of the environment for them to see its current condition and contribute in the efforts to conserve and protect it. Aside from actively promoting the Hundred Islands National Park, he led initiatives on rehabilitating mangrove areas, encouraging the continued protection and conservation of mangroves to ensure that this marine habitat continues to be a haven for fishes and other species that are dependent on this ecosystem. Conservation and protection, according to him, needs to be at the forefront of marine resource management to ensure that the fisheries thrive, thereby guaranteeing that those who depend on the fisheries for livelihood have a steady source of income and enough food on the table of every Alaminian. He carried this advocacy when he became President of the Junior Chamber International Hundred Islands in 2011.

Honest, consistent and judicious—these words best describe Hon. Aquino. He inherited these values from his father, Capt. Jaime Aquino, a high-ranking officer and Professional Regulation Commission’s examiner for seafarers. For him, it is important that he doesn’t create false expectations. He knows his weaknesses, and this recognition makes him work equally hard to highlight his strengths. Growing up in a family of businessmen and politicians, he learned early that trust is important and building on people’s trust needs a consistent and steady demonstration that one can be counted on—to do as you say, to act as you say. He is slow to judge and is impartial in his reasoning. He handles conflict situations in a manner that subscribes to proper values and prescribed rules and regulations. He closely examines situations, consults parties involved and ensures that he has all the right information so he can make informed decisions. For Hon. Earl James Aquino, public service is his destiny. Being a councilor of the City of Alaminos and now a Vice Mayor, he sees this as a chance to be a model for the young generation— that politics need not be dirty and full of controversies, but is, in fact, a prolific environment rife with opportunities for good governance and affirmative action for the well-being of different sectors of society. As a public servant, he is even more fastidious in his post as a councilor because this is where he is constantly exposed to the public eye—it is where his actions are put under a microscope; hence, his intentions need to be transparent and genuine. But the bottomline here is that Hon. Earl James Aquino believes that service to humanity is the best work of life. He intends to continue the tradition of the Aquinos—“maging Aktibo sa Serbisyo tungo sa Tuwid na Daan” as espoused by the Philippine President, His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III.

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Conducting free medical-surgical mission with his wife-Dr.Trina Marie

Ground breaking of Constructed Wetland for City Natural Wastewater Treatment

Promoting the city’s best products at the annual “Pinaka Contest”

Inspiring the youth to extend their share in re-greening the countryside

Councilor Earl with his wife Trina and daughter Cassandra Louise Supplemental feeding with 2008 Miss Earth Beauties

Spearheading a mangrove reforestation project

Sharing his vision for the city at the ground breaking of Alaminos Airport Project

Attending international training program with young leaders in Asia Pacific

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Joseph M. De Guzman City Councilor - City of San Fernando, La Union

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

JOSEPH M. DE GUZMAN The Total Performer

City Councilor - City of San Fernando, La Union His educational formation nurtured him to what he is now. He had his elementary studies at the Christ the King College and secondary education at the Saint Louis College High School., both in the City of San Fernando, La Union. He finished his Bachelor of Arts degree major in Philosophy and Sociology and earned units in Education major in Guidance and Counseling at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. He also finished his Masters degree in Business Administration major in Marketing at Saint Louis College Graduate School. He also finished Master in Public Management at the Ateneo School of Government. He finished his academic units in his Doctor of Philosophy degree at Saint Louis College Graduate School and currently working on his dissertation. He also underwent seminary formations at the Diocesan Seminary of the Heart of Jesus, City of San Fernando, La Union, San Pablo Seminary, Baguio City and took Theology Proper at La Sallete Seminar in Isabela and Silang, Cavite.

‟

When a work is once begun, never leave it till it’s done. Be it great or small, do it well or not at all. If you got something to do, do it now for it shall never pass this way again. And in everything you do, always give your best.

„

– this has been the guiding principle of Hon. Joseph M. De Guzman as public servant for 15 years. Truly, he has delivered a selfless service to the people of San Fernando through the years as a Municipal Councilor from 19951998 and as a City Councilor from 1998-2004 and elected and re-elected City Councilor from 2008 to present for the second round of his 9-year term.

As a student and seminarian, he already exudes academic and leadership skills having been a consistent honor student and scholar. He held various top positions in school and seminary organizations. Notably were his being President of the SLCHS Student Supreme Student Council, Hi-YMCA-La Union, UST Holy Name Society and General Beadle of the Diocesan Seminary. These earned him several academic and leadership awards to include the Gerry Roxas Leadership Award, DSHJ Leadership Award, Outstanding Y-er, YMCA Leadership Award, DSHJ Leadershp Award (all in High School) and in College, the UST Benavides Award and the Holy Name Society Leadership Award. Service and Leadership: The Highlights

Branded as the Total Performer, Jojo as he is called by friends, is the most active city official. He is the most visible among the city councilors having to report to work everyday. A true public servant – dedicated, dynamic, results-oriented with a strong track record of performance, people and service-oriented, with proven interpersonal communications and multi tasking skills.

Councilor Joseph M. De Guzman is the longest incumbent and serving councilor in the City. He is armed with his vision of transforming the City of San Fernando as a mature and progressive City with God-loving, enlightened and empowered leaders and citizenry. Having this vision, Councilor De Guzman commits to the people of San Fernando his sincere public service.

Born on March 20, 1962 to Diosdado “Dadong” Abdula de Guzman and Eugenia “Inang” Galvez Munar. Jojo is the eighth child in a brood of ten (10) children. He is married to Dr. Lea Laron de Guzman, the Vice President for Academic Affairs of Saint Louis College and blessed with a 12-year old son named Emmanuel Angelo.

In his capacity as a legislator, he sponsored and co-sponsored various ordinances and resolutions that champion the welfare of the people of San Fernando. He is one of the most active city councilors who diligently attend the regular sessions and committee meetings and functions of the Sanggunian Panlungsod.

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013 Councilor Jojo has always been at the forefront in the promotion of the family as a basic social institution and the rights, duties and obligations of family members. He holds up to the family as the strongest foundation in the community - he believes that with a strong family, a progressive community awaits. Added to that is his advocacy of providing education to the youth. One of the first ordinances he authored includes the Establishment of Day Care Centers in the 59 Barangays of San Fernando, the Creation of the Crisis Intervention Center, Regulating the Sale of Cigarettes and Liquor and the Curfew Ordinance for Minors.

Chairman of the SFC Got Talent. He also takes charge in the Annual Rimat ti Amianan (trade and tourism fair) and spearheads the conduct of the Search for Mr. & Miss Rimat ti Amianan, Sayaw Barangay, Battle of the Bands, Belen and Christmas Lantern Competition and the Rimat Fashion Show. He is also the perennial Editor-in-Chief of the City Foundation Souvenir Program. He is also responsible in the preparation of the City’s Bid Books that made the City of San Fernando win in the Search for The Most Business Friendly City and the Search for Child-Friendly City. He is also the perennial respresentative of the City Mayor in various meetings, conferences, programs and activities.

As the chairman of the Committee on Health and Wellness of the Sanggunian Panlungsod, he always pushes for the development and implementation of projects and programs in pursuit of having a healthy city. With his initiative, several infrastructures were put up to improve the state of human development and its environment. To name a few landmark ordinances/ best practices crafted under his able leadership: the Health Code that includes the Septage Ordinance in which households’ septic tanks will be siphoned every five years or when it deemed necessary; the construction and operation of the Engineered Sanitary Landfill which has been the model landfill of other municipalities and cities; the smoking ordinance which regulates smoking in the city; granting of Philheath Cards to the Poor, and other ordinances that have greatly impacted the lives of the residents of the city.

He is also the perennial representative of the City in various local and international conferences, study tours, and exchanges. Official international travels include the United States of America, Canada, Australia, Japan, China, Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand and Hongkong.

He is also the Founder/ Adviser/ Coordinator of the Federation of Student Councils (SBO). The Federation of Students Council is the only recognized alliance of secondary and tertiary student body organizations in the City. By this act of empowering the youth towards good governance, student leaders are able to see how public service can mold not only the youth, but the people in general towards the achievement of development goals. The federation started with only sixteen (16) memberschools in 1998. To date, it has a total membership of thirty one (31) member-schools. Significant activities of the federation includes the Annual Inter-school Sportsfest and Cheerdance Competition, Search for Campus King and Queen, Star Talent Search, conduct of Leadership Trainings, conduct of various relevant symposiums and lectures, Outreach Programs and more. The federation has indeed institutionalized the academe and the student sector as relevant partners of the City Government. As a multi-tasking official, he initiates, plans, coordinates and implements all special programs and projects of the City Government. He is the perennial Overall Co-chairman of the City Mayor in the conduct of City Patronal Fiesta and Foundation Anniversary celebrations, Chairman of the Search for Miss San Fernando and Miss Barangay, Chairman of the SBO Night, Chairman of the Pindangan Festival Street Dancing Competition and

Despite his hectic schedule as a public servant, he still manages to teach as a part-time college instructor. As a teacher, he is able to directly influence the educational and value formation of the youth. As testimony of his unwavering public service, he has been a recipient of several awards and recognitions. The more significant of these awards is the Service Award given by the City of San Fernando which is conferred to its sons and daughters who made significant contributions, thus making a difference in the lives of the people. Very recently, he was awarded as one of the Top 10 Outstanding Councilors of Region 1 by the Philippine Councilors’’ League and the Department of the Interior and Local Governement. As he continues to serve for his last term, he will carry on to work on a principle of good governance as he will strive to contribute to create a policy environment that would advocate greater accountability, and pursue a great vision and positive agenda for his beloved City of San Fernando, La Union. He will leave a legacy of sincere public service that everyone will forever remember. Joseph “Jojo” de Guzman, the Outstanding Councilor – the Total Performer!

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Councilor Jojo de Guzman measures a very rare record-breaking banana fruits measuring 9 feet long in Brgy. Catbangen.

FEEDING PROGRAM – Councilor Jojo de Guzman with the City Officials held during one of the People’s Day Celebrations, a special project of the City Government

Councilor Jojo de Guzman together with the City Vice Mayor welcomes the new Station Commander of the Philippine Navy during his courtesy call.

Councilor Jojo de Guzman conducts consultation meeting with the Barangay Health Workers of Brgy. Cabaroan. Councilor Jojo de Guzman assists a public school pupil during the SBO Outreach Program to prepapre the pupils for their NAT Exams.

Councilor Jojo de Guzman conducts a review class to the public school pupils in preparation for the NAT Exams.

FEEDING PROGRAM – Councilor Jojo de Guzman with the City Officials held during one of the People’s Day Celebrations, project of the City a special Government

Councilor Jojo de Guzman attends to a patient undergoing a medical consultation during one of the medical missions sponsored by the City Government.

Councilor Jojo de Guzman heads the San Fernando delegation who participated in the Invitational Street Dancing Competition held in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Councilor Jojo de Guzman received the award from the Mayor and Officials of Narvacan for winning the first place in the Narvacan Invitational Street Dancing Competition.

Councilor Jojo de Guzman assists a public school pupil during the SBO Outreach Program to prepapre the pupils for their NAT Exams.

Councilor Jojo de Guzman attends to a patient undergoing a dental consultation during one of the dental missions sponsored by the City Government.

Councilor Jojo de Guzman delivers an inspirational message to the inmates of the City Jail during the Christmas Season as part of the Outreach Program of the SBO

The Mayor of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, hands over the Trophy and cash prize to Councilor Jojo de Guzman for winning the top prize during the Narvacan Invitational Street Dancing Competition. Â

Councilor Jojo de Guzman holds a dialogue with the indigents of the City of San Fernando.

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Gary Jason B. Ejercito Board Member - Quezon Province

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

GARY JASON B. EJERCITO Quezon Province Board Member Professional Actor | Farmer | Athlete

an actress, television host and a former news anchor. They have three beautiful children: Garielle Bernice T. Ejercito, Garianna Beatrice T. Ejercito and Gianna Bettina T. Ejercito. Gary Ejercito has a lovechild from actress Chesca Diaz. Showbiz Career

rolific, hardworking and determined is an understatement when you describe how dedicated Gary is towards work, be it as an actor, athlete, farmer and as a Provincial Board Member of Quezon Province. Dedicated to his mandate, he is achievement-driven, dynamic, active, charismatic, loving father and husband. These are just some of the most appropriate adjectives to describe him. Early life He was born Gary Jason B. Ejercito on May 16, 1971 in the Philippines to late actor Jorge M. Ejercito aka (“George Estregan”) and Avelina Bocaling aka (“Agnes Moran”) he was born the eldest to be followed by his sister Ma. Catherine B. Ejercito & Robert Ejercito (deceased). Unknown to many, he finished his primary education in Ballesteros Elementary School in Cagayan Valley and his secondary education in Angelicum School in Quezon City. He then took up BS Accounting in Far Eastern University for three years before getting into show business. But even with his busy schedule, he made a promise to himself and to his family to finish his education what ever it takes, with that in mind, he enrolled himself in the International Academy of Management and Economics. With perseverance and hard work, he was able to graduate with a degree in management in 1999. Private Life Gary is a seasonal actor, athlete, farmer, and politician. He is married to Ma. Lourdes Bernadette Tinoco aka (“Bernadette Allyson”)

Gary learned the value of hard work at an early age being a working student. He started out as a crew member in Jollibee and later on started modelling in his early teens. And at an early age of 17 years old, he was offered to be a contract star of VIVA Films. His movie career was launched in the film TAG ARAW, TAG ULAN which catapulted him to super stardom. He starred in almost 35 blockbuster films like PARANAQUE BANK ROBBERY, LOVENOTES THE MOVIE and IKAW NAMAN ANG IIYAK to name a few. He was tagged as one of the hottest matinee idols in the year 1992 til the late 90-‘s. He won a Guillermo Mendoza award as Most Promising New Star. He earned the title “THE ULTIMATE HUNK” from the Philippine movie industry during the peak of his career. And was voted as one of the Philippines’ Sexiest Actor in several occasions. He was also a constant male lead star of numerous soap opera and sitcom programs for various television networks in the country. “L”, Del Tierro, Tinig, Sana’y Walang Wakas and Mulawin to name a few. He is an active member of the Screen Actor’s Guild of the Philippines on its programs and activities. Athletic Life As an ATHLETE he dabbled in a lot of sports. He plays basketball, rides the motocross, does trail riding, wall climbing, biking, tennis, slowpitch, softball and baseball. In years 1999 to 2003, he was a member of the PHILLIPINE NATIONAL TEAM for BASEBALL and represented the country in various international competitions. Taking the challenge of Public office Even with the success of his career in show business, Gary did not stop there. His exposure to politics from the time he was a kid growing up and his ties with the Ejercito clan instilled in him a desire to help other people. His uncle which is the former President of the Philippines now Mayor of Manila City Joseph “Erap” Ejercito – Estrada, cousins Senator Jinggoy Ejercito- Estrada and JV Ejercito and his half brother Governor ER Ejercito–are the most influential in his desire to run for public office. Gary won as Board Member in the 2nd District of Quezon province with an impressive outcome, no. 1 in four out of the six towns of his district. Never to rest on his laurels, Gary worked even harder after winning. He went around covering almost all 168 barangays of his district distributing various projects. He also untiringly sourced out from national official fund projects like farm to market roads, classroom buildings and barangay rehabilitation. He is currently the Chairman of the Committee on Environment, Chairman on Agriculture, Deputy Majority

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013 Floor Leader in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Quezon province and an active officer of the Provincial Board Members League of the Philippines as the Vice President of Luzon. Another testament to his dedication to his work is his almost perfect attendance in session. Gary has gone beyond the functions of a Board Member with all the projects he was able to implement during his first term. And he is looking forward to implementing more infrastructure projects for his constituents now that he is in his second term. With his sterling performance as a public official, we can only expect Board Member Gary to give his best and more than 101% performance once again. He is now balancing a hectic life of being an actor, family man, farmer and politician. He is enjoying every minute of it and there’s no stopping this action man from Quezon. PRODUCT ENDORSEMENTS/ MODELLING ASSIGNMENTS London Dry Gin 2001 Yamaha Motors Verbano Shirts Image Model Aca Joes Image M0oel Xtn Image Model Modeled For The Country’s Presitigous Designers Colours MOVIE PROJECTS Boyong Manalac Mga Batang City Jail Mga Batang Riles Tag Araw Tag Ulan Apoy Sa Puso Blue Jeans Gang Hangang Saan Hangang Kailan Pangako Ng Kahapon Lovenotes The Movie Dyesebel Ober The Bakod The Movie Ikaw Naman Ang Iiyak Strict Ang Parents Ko Booba Bratpack Angel Na Walang Langit Jessica Alfaro The Movie Campus Girls Waray Gang Garapal Duwag Lang Ang Susuko Oras Na Para Lumaban Xxx.Com You And Me Against The World Pagnanasa Segurista Sutla El Presidente Madam X Mga Bellas Gising Na Si Adan

GARANTISADONG EPEKTIBO PROJECTS ACCOMPLISHED FROM MAY 2010 – 2013 OF BOARD MEMBER GARY JASON B. EJERCITO-ESTRADA

FARM TO MARKET ROAD

10 WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM

1. BRGY. TAMISIAN, TIAONG, QUEZON 2. BRGY. BUENAVISTA WEST, CANDELARIA, QUEZON 3. BRGY. 1, LUCENA CITY 4. BRGY. TUMBAGA 1, SARIAYA, QUEZON 5. BRGY. BAGONG ANYO, DOLORES, QUEZON w/ Sen. Bong-Bong Marcos 6. BRGY. BUKAL, TIAONG, QUEZON 7. BRGY. ARAWAN, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 8. BRGY. BULIHAN, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 9. BRGY. SAMPAGA, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 10. BRGY. SINTURISAN, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 11. BRGY. CALLEJON, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 12. BRGY. BALAT ATIS, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON

DEEPWELL: 1. BRGY. BRIONES, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 2. BRGY. NIING, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 3. BRGY. MATIPUNSO, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON

w/ Sen. Juan Ponce F. Enrile, Sr. ( 5 ROADS)

PROJECT WITH AKBAYAN PARTYLIST

SHALLOW WELL: 4. BRGY. SAMPAGUITA, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 5. BRGY. CORAZON, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 6. BRGY. DEL VALLE, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 7. BRGY. BAGONG NIING, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 8. BRGY. XI, LUCENA CITY 9. BRGY. IBABANG IYAM, LUCENA CITY 10. BRGY. MARKETVIEW, LUCENA CITY

MENINGOCOCCEMIA VACCINATION 4 SCHOOL BUILDING PROJECTS w/ Senator Jinggoy Ejercito – Estrada

1. DALAHICAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2. BRGY. PURY, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 3. LUTUCAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL w/ DIWA PARTYLIST 4. COTTA NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

MEDICAL MISSIONS 1. BRGY. 2. BRGY. 3. BRGY. 4. BRGY.

LUSACAN, TIAONG, QUEZON SAN ISIDRO, TIAONG, QUEZON BARRA, LUCENA CITY ILAYANG IYAM, LUCENA CITY

BARANGAY REHABILITATION PROJECTS

APPROXIMATELY 2000 KIDS AND ADULTS VACCINATED 1. ARAWAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BRGY. ARAWAN, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 2. MATIPUNSO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BRGY. MATIPUNSO, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 3. NIING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BRGY. BAGONG NIING, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 4. SAMPAGA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BRGY. SAMPAGA, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON 5. LAGALAG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BRGY. LAGALAG, CANDELARIA, QUEZON 6. TALAO-TALAO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BRGY. TALAO-TALAO, LUCENA CITY 7. MAYAO CROSSING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BRGY. MAYAO CROSSING, LUCENA CITY • MONOBLOCK DISTRIBUTION IN BARANGAYS & ORGANIZATIONS

WITH PBA PARTYLIST

• GRIND SALT/IODIZED SALT DISTRIBUTION

1. BRGY. 2. BRGY. 3. BRGY. 4. BRGY. 5. BRGY. 6. BRGY. 7. BRGY. 8. BRGY. 9. BRGY. 10. BRGY.

• MEDICAL EQUIPMENTS VARIOUS BARANGAYS

STO. CRISTO, SARIAYA, QUEZON BALUBAL, SARIAYA, QUEZON LUTUCAN MALABAG, SARIAYA, QUEZON MONTECILLO, SARIAYA, QUEZON GUIS-GUIS TALON, SARIAYA, QUEZON ISABANG, LUCENA CITY ILAYANG DUPAY, LUCENA CITY MAYAO CROSSING, LUCENA CITY MAYAO KANLURAN, LUCENA CITY SILANGANG MAYAO, LUCENA

TELEVISION SHOWS Del Tierro L Kiss Muna Munting Anghel Sana’y Wala Nang Wakas Mulawin Tinig Pasan Ko And Daigdig Captain Barbell Rosalinda Bantatay Blusang Itim Kokak Angel Nawalang Langit Kapitan Inggo Appeared in tv shows like Lovingly Yours Viva Drama Special, Viva Spotlight Estudyante Blues, Regal Drama, Maalala Mo Kaya, Magpakailan Man Coney Reyes on Camera, Young Love Sweet Love Lovenotes various telesines Co-Host THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT (Saturday Edition) Co-host of VILMA Co-host GMA SUPER SHOW INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS Kristina – a British film Moving On – Asian soap opera televised in Malaysia

• VEST DISTRIBUTION VARIOUS BARANGAYS • SPORTING EQUIPMENTS DISTRIBUTION • AWARDING OF MULTICAB IN LUTUCAN I SARIAYA, QUEZON • 168 NEBULIZERS FOR 168 BARANGAYS • VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT BARANGAY PURY, SAN ANTONIO, QUEZON • 87 SCHOLAR in CSTC

ATHLETIC CAREER MEMBER Philippines National Baseball Team 1999-2003 Position: Outfield/First Base International Competition Baseball Federation of asia korea 1999 21st Asian Baseball Champion 2001 Baseball World Cup 2001 Local Competition Amatuer Baseball Philippines Baseball Philippines Pangea Softball National Open MSSl (slowpitch) Other local Competitions Teams PHILAB, PAPARAZZI AIRFORCE, NAVY, MS MARIKINA LAGUNA STARS, CANLUBANG, LAGUNA NEGROS, BYOB, MERALCO, PERA PADALA Motocross YAMAHA ENDURO CROSS – PASIG – 3RD PLACE CEBU – 2RD PLACE TENNIS AGE GROUP 10-12 YRS OLD 1ST RUNNER UP

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Jose Antonio â&#x20AC;&#x153;Marcâ&#x20AC;? Leviste II Vice Governor - Province of Batangas

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

JOSE ANTONIO “MARC” LEVISTE II Vice-Governor

Province of Batangas “Sanoy” Leviste, whose sincerity to the people and love for country has caught the young leader’s admiration. “Mamay Sanoy is the longest serving Governor in Batangas Province history. He was also known as the Exponent of Grassroot Democracy, Champion of Community Development and the Governor of the Masses” says Leviste. The Levistes have a long history of public service in the Province of Batangas. Following Governor Sanoy Leviste were Senator Loren Legarda-Leviste, Former Governor Tony Leviste, Con-con Delegate Joey Leviste, Former Senior Provincial Board Member Sany Leviste, the late Congressman Expedito Leviste and the late Con-con Delegate Oscar Leviste. After more than half a century, Vice Governor Marc Leviste together with his mother were able to relive and continue the legacy of their forefathers. “Ang magandang nagawa ng lolo, ipagpapatuloy ng apo” stresses the young Leviste. Young Leader

OSE ANTONIO is the 2nd of three sons of former Board of Investments Governor Conrad Casals Leviste and incumbent Lipa City Councilor Patsie Sermonia Leviste. Marc, as he is more popularly known, started as a Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Councilor in Bel-Air, Makati from 1996 to 2002. A few years later, he decided to return to his hometown in Lipa City, Batangas where he sought and won the top-seat of the Provincial Board in 2004. After his first term as a Senior Provincial Board Member, Leviste ran and won as Provincial Vice-Governor in 2007, making him the youngest Vice-Governor in the history of Batangas at 29-years old. After winning in the recently-held May 2013 elections Marc officially became the only Vice-Governor in the province elected for three consecutive terms. Marc is one of today’s most celebrated young politicians in the country, and now more than ever, he is open about his aspirations and plans in becoming the next Provincial Governor of Batangas. A bloodline of heroism and politics Leviste’s bloodline includes his great-granduncle, General Miguel Malvar, one of the bravest military heroes of the Philippine revolution. Confesses the young Leviste: “Since General Malvar is a true-blooded Batangueno, he is considered a ‘Barako’ and because of his distinct (Batangueno) character, he fought both the Spaniards and Americans, and he was the last one to surrender (to the latter).” Another is his granduncle, the late Governor Feliciano

Having inherited a political pedigree, Marc believes that he is a born leader. At a young age, he already showed signs of his leadership skills as a Class President and Member of the Student Council of La Salle. He finished his elementary and high school education in La Salle Greenhills and took up Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Marketing Management in De La Salle University-College of St. Benilde wherein he made it to the Dean’s List as a second honor awardee in school year 1999 and 2000. Aside from politics, Marc is a businessman. At an early age of 18, Marc was already involved in the family businesses of real estate development and property management. He also Co-chaired the Committee on Youth Affairs of the prestigious Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in year 2000. Leviste issues the following challenge to other young leaders: “Let us prove to our elders that our lives do not just revolve around music videos and social networks; Kung noon, ang matatanda ang huwaran ng kabataan; ngayon naman, ang kabataan ang huwaran ng lipunan.” The Vice-Governor believes that when young people unite, they can make a significant difference in our society. “One person can make a difference (including the youth), and everyone should at least try” says Marc.

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013 WORK, WORK, WORK; NOT NECESSARILY IN THAT ORDER His favorite motto? Marc is sparked by the adage “Do what you love and love what you do.” He explains: “By doing what you love, you will never work a day in your life.” Another is: “Work hard, but work smarter”. He adds: “I believe that there’s no substitute for hard work, but to be more efficient, productive and successful, one should learn how to trust and delegate to others. Identifying ones strength and weaknesses then developing a balance between the two also boils down to working smarter.” HEARTS and SOUL As Batangas Vice-Governor, Leviste is considered to be the sidekick of his popular Provincial Governor, Vilma Santos-Recto. In the last six years and for the next three, the Recto-Leviste administration has been focusing on their priority programs in providing; Health care, quality Education, Environmental protection, Roads and infrastructure, Tourism promotion and Security also known as the HEARTS program. Vice-Governor Leviste and the Provincial Board of Batangas complement the priority programs of the Executive by providing their own “SOUL” objective; Service, Order, Unity through Legislation. “Together with Governor Vilma, we are the HEARTS and SOUL of Batangas” says Leviste. Responsible Leadership The Vice-Governor plays both executive and legislative roles as an officer of the Provincial Government. He is both the Administrator of the Provincial Board and the Presiding Officer of its sessions. From time to time, he assumes the office of the Governor and performs the duties and functions of the Chief Executive in cases of temporary vacancy. Marc takes pride in sharing the accomplishments of his administration. Aside from the landmark legislations the Board Members passed, they were instrumental in the total renovation of their legislative building and hall, the development of a legislative annex building, innovating computerized and paperless sessions of the Provincial Board and the purchase of their own mini-bus or coaster. For his last term, Marc wants to construct a new Provincial Library close to the legislative building for the Capitol employees and other constituents in Batangas. As a lawmaker and legislator, Leviste also believes that another function of a Board Member is to constantly be the voice and representative of the people. PRO-Active At present, Leviste is the National Press Relations Officer (PRO) of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines (LVGP). He was elected by his fellow Vice-Governors for the third consecutive time as the League’s PRO. “We intend to be a strong, dynamic and cohesive national organization of highly motivated Vice Governors” said Leviste.

In 2012, Leviste was recognized as one of the Most Outstanding National Executive Committee Officers of the LVGP. Marc also became the National Movement of Young Legislators’ National Public Relations Officer from 2008 to 2010. The former NMYL PRO mentioned that their objective is to develop committed, strong, and principled leaders among young legislators. Currently, he heads the provincial chapter of the Movement in Batangas. On the other hand, Marc is active in various socio-civic and non-government organizations. He is the Founder of Love Batangas Movement, the President of Leviste Youth foundation, member of the Guardians Brotherhood Incorporated and an Honorary Member of the Batangas City Caballero Jaycees. Leviste recounts: “As an active member of various local authorities and organizations, I learned several outstanding practices and landmark legislations in local governance. I always remain objective with my opinions and participate in various critical decision-making policies for our members.” A Future Full of Hope On his third term as Vice-Governor, he is enthusiastic in making Batangas a strategic tourism destination and a worldclass attraction. He wants to enrich the history, culture and the arts of Batangas by means of “tourism education”. He will focus and help-out on the tourism development and promotion of Taal Lake and Volcano by introducing dynamic, innovative and out-of-the-box ideas. Marc is also focused on the Agricultural sector of the province. This way, the provincial government will broaden its resources in providing the needed agricultural support to farmers, fisher-folks and other stakeholders. “Through Tourism and Agriculture, we will be able to provide employment and investment opportunities to our constituents and investors” reiterated Leviste.

‟

With a common vision and common values, with passion, dedication and in sharing the responsibilities, we can make Batangas a premier and globally-competitive province. The future (of Batangas) is bright; a future full of hope.

„

-Jose Antonio Leviste, II

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Father and son camping with eldest child Ronin

Vice Gov. Leviste and Gov. Recto during a medical mission in Nasugbu, Batangas on July 2010

Vice Gov. Leviste & Gov. Recto during the Batangas PNPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Padyak Laban sa Kriminalidad on June 30, 2011

Vice Gov. Leviste sharing his signature Cowboy Hat in the 1st District of Batangas

Vice Gov. Leviste addressing the crowd during the General Assembly of Barangay Kagawad - Batangas City Chapter

COMELEC proclaims Marc Leviste and Vilma Santos Recto as elected Vice Governor and Governor in 2010

Vice Gov. Leviste honoring the Philippine Flag and singing the National Anthem

Vice Gov. Leviste with Sen. Recto, Gov. Recto and members of the 7th Provincial Board in July 2012

Vice Gov. Leviste during the firearms turn-over to the PNP in July 2013

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Vice Gov. Leviste showing the Liberal Party sign during the 2010 Elections in Lipa City

Vice Gov. Leviste with Valenzuela Coun. Soledad and QC Coun. Delarmente duting the 18th NMYL National Congress & Election of Officers on February 2011

Re-elected Vice Gov. Leviste with mother and Lipa City Coun. Patsie Leviste

Vice Gov. Leviste addresses the children in Alangilan Elementary School during the Anti-Dengue Clean - Up drive of the Province of Batangas

Donning of Ranks of Vice Gov. Leviste and Gov. Recto as an Airforce Major and Lieutenant Colonel respectively in Fernando Air Base, Lipa City

Vice Gov. Leviste & Family with then Senator & LP Presidential Candidate Noynoy Aquino during the 2010 National Elections in Lipa City

Vice Gov. Leviste shakes hands w/ constituents during a campaign sortie

Vice Gov. Leviste delivers a privilege message

Vice Gov. Leviste with children Arielle, C2 and Ronin

Officers of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines

Vice Gov. Leviste enjoying the ATV in Legazpi City

Vice Gov. Leviste with Gov. Recto during the latterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SOPA in July 2012

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Vicente Homer Bajar Revil Vice Governor - Masbate Province

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

VICENTE HOMER BAJAR REVIL The Man

Vice Governor - Masbate Province His Post Graduate Diploma in Management from the University of Melbourne prepared him for some managerial skills, not anymore in the corporate world but in managing the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan thus coming up with some notable legislation for the common good of every Masbateño. Atty. Vince Revil comes from a family of educators. His father Mr. Jovencio T. Revil is a retired Regional Director of the Department of Education, while his mother, Hilda Abelita-Bajar Revil is a retired DepEd Superintendent of the Province of Masbate. He is the youngest of seven siblings, all successful professionals, based in Masbate. Born from a brood of educators there remains a soft spot making him a staunch supporter and an advocate for quality education by supporting public school activities, projects and vocational skills program. He also supported community building advocacy through active partnership with Gawad Kalinga in building homes and support for the education of the children in the GK community.

here is a relatively small segment of leaders in the world of politics; individuals who build relationship, trust and rapport with people from all walks of life, creating partnerships and alliances to propel development and growth, and motivating forward momentum to ‘get things done’. VICENTE HOMER Bajar REVIL is one of those people who is results oriented and believes that through consultation, strong collaboration and partnership - as the Vice Governor of Masbate, the province is ready to face the challenges of the century. A lawyer by profession, Vince as he is fondly called, earned his Juris Doctor degree at the Ateneo de Manila, School of Law in 2001 at the same time passing the bar exam of the same year. His knowledge of the law catapulted him to join public service as one of the policy makers having been elected as a Board Member (Sangguniang Panlalawigan) of the province in 2001. As fate would put him where he really belongs, he was re-elected in 2004 as a senior member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. Then by operation of law, he succeeded as vice governor when the then vice governor passed away due to health reasons. As they say the rest is history, he was elected thrice with a massive lead as the vice governor, the 2007 elections, 2010 elections and 2013 elections, and his term as the now longest sitting vice governor in Masbate will end in 2016.

HIGHLIGHTS OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS The legislative body is an independent and co-equal branch of government as provided for by law, the vice governor as the presiding officer coexist harmoniously with the executive branch, regardless of any political affiliation. All legislations are always attuned to the executive agenda of the Local Chief Executive; as such, no single ordinance was vetoed by the Governor. Under his leadership numerous legislations were passed and among the landmark legislations are: *AN ORDINANCE ENACTING THE MASBATE PROVINCIAL INVESTMENT CODE - Primarily aimed to promote the inflow and direction of private investment capital in the province, it helps in creating jobs which are essential in reducing poverty, thus improving the quality of life of its citizenry. *THE REVISED REVENUE CODE OF MASBATE - The code legitimizes and facilitates the orderly collection of various impositions, that will redound to increase revenues. An increase of fifteen percent in revenue collection was achieved when this piece of legislation was passed. *AN ORDINANCE ENACTING THE MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CODE OF THE PROVINCE - The code was enacted to provide services for a universal health service for children, prevention and early detection of children’s diseases. It likewise focuses on the health and wellbeing of the mother and the family in the context of the child’s health and wellbeing.

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013 *AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE OFFICIAL SEAL OF MASBATE - The Local Government Unit seal as a visual identification, that truly reflects the identity and aspirations of the people. *AMENDMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT CODE – The objectives of the code were to protect and have a sustainable development in the utilization of natural resources. Amendments were made to harmonize with the existing statutes and climate change. TOURISM Rodeo Masbateño Festival It is the only rodeo show in Asia. It is celebrated annually in April and showcases 10 competitive rodeo events. Highlighting this event is the difficult “figure of eight” competition where the cowboy crisscrosses around a group of barrels. Women participate in heart stopping events like calf wrestling, calf lassoing and carambola. This 2-week action-packed event that featured unique competitions in the National Rodeo Finals showcasing daily ranch activities like bull riding, bull whipping, cattle lassoing wrestle tie-down and cattle drive, and herding competitions. MAN FOR OTHERS

‟

Environmental Advocacy

„

An Masbate an pinakamatahom na lugar sa mundo, gin hatagan ini san Diyos sin kayamanan para kita mabuhay sin mabugana kay tiwasay. (Masbate is one of the most beautiful places in the world; God provided this province with wealth for us to live abundantly and peacefully). These were some of the words of the vice governor when interviewed by the media on his outlook about the province. Indeed, no one cares about the province, as much as he does. True to his demeanor, he enrolled his children in public schools when he could have opted for private schools in the metropolis. His wife Atty. Kaye, has to leave her lucrative business and profession in Manila, in exchange for public service. Together, they organized Masbate Alliance for Progress Advocacy (MAPA) aimed at bringing stakeholders to achieve a sustainable development through environmental management. It has been quite evident that the vice governor is constantly visible and active participant in various environmental advocacy undertakings. As past president of the Rotary he was always on the lead as well for all the environmental activities it advocates such as tree-planting and coastal clean-ups among others. Together with other volunteers of MAPA, thousands of “propagules” (seedlings) of mangroves were planted in Barangay Pawa, Masbate City. As an alumnus of Jose Zurbito Elementary School, the couple replicated the Liter of Light in minimizing the electricity cost thus unburdening the parents for the payment of the bills. To date numerous houses have adopted the program

particularly those in the depressed areas, thus paving the way for lightened households. Information and education campaign is one of the strategies in addressing the climate change. The Vice Governor through his development funds constantly conducts environmental symposia for the people to be aware on the impact of this climate change phenomenon. He encouraged commuters to use bicycle as a means of transportation, thus initiating Pedal Para sa Kalikasan. There is also the Fish Conservation/ Anti –Illegal Fishing advocacy protect the aquatic resources and deter would be perpetrators to commit the offense. Social Responsibility and other Projects in Progress Re-elected unopposed as Secretary General of the League of the Vice Governors of the Philippines (LGVP), this proves his able management of the League’s personnel and his great leadership and fostering of good camaraderie among the Vice Governors of the country. He also has initiated and advocated with the League the continuing education on development legislation and paved the way for the partnership between the LGVP and the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) , thus creating a Graduate Diploma in Development Legislation Program for all the Vice Governors of the country. This initiative is one of the indicators in awarding him with a Fullbright Scholarship to be the representative of the Philippines for the International Leadership Program by the US State Department in 2010. Under his leadership, he facilitated the Electrification Project using solar panels and generator sets by the French Government to the province. It is a special grant for 128 barangays in Masbate. The vice-governor believes that empowering the youth is one of the keys to prevent them from indulging in vices such as drugs. He is a constant figure in scouting activities and anti-illegal drug campaign through sports activities. A staunch peace advocate he was bestowed the rank of Major in the Army Reserve. PRIVATE VINCE With great love for Masbate, he has found a Masbateña partner for life - Atty. Jo Kristine Celera- Revil. She is also currently elected as the Senior Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member. They have four diligent and achievement oriented children namely Jovi, Bavik, Kevin and King. As head of the family, he makes sure to instill discipline, integrity, generosity and most of all faith in God. He lives a life of purpose and passion for the glory of God.

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

Jose â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bongâ&#x20AC;? Joson-Teves Jr. Vice Governor - Province of Catanduanes

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

JOSE “BONG” JOSON-TEVES JR. Vice-Governor

Provice of Catanduanes SIGNIFICANT ACCOMPLISHMENTS In 1985, the year he passed the board, he also put up his own business, the CARPEL TRADING now known as CARPEL ENVIRONMENT CORPORATION. ENTREPRENEURAL EXCELLENCE Bong, as he is known to his friends, is a man who thinks big but recognizes the economic prudence of starting small. CARPEL was from the word “Carton and Papel” combined. Undoubtedly, it is a business idea that is characterized by simplicity yet visionary as it has in its corporate horizon the importance of protecting and preserving the green environment thru the exercise of corporate responsibility, as will be shown in the ensuing discussion. Carpel Trading was originally engaged in the buy and sell of scrap paper and cartons with a starting capital of fifty thousand (PhP 50,000.00) pesos and a passenger jeep provided by his mother. It has now turned into a multi-million worth company.

ost people and leaders in our home province know this man, but is he much more, he has done so much that it is hard to know where to start, so let me start by describing this man as a very modest but distinct man, one of the most distinguished public officials worth emulating, an example worth recognizing and a name to reckon with in the field of environment, community service, public and government service, tourism development and entrepreneurship. A true Catandunganon, determined, tough but measured in his words and actions, just like this island province, typhoon ravaged but standing tall and strong, JOSE “BONG” JOSON TEVES, JR, the former 3-term Mayor of Baras, Catanduanes and now Vice-Governor of Catanduanes, runs unopposed to his second term as Vice-governor of this province. HUMBLE BEGINNINGS This man came from a simple and modest family raised by a school teacher mother and a revenue officer father in an almost sleepy town of Baras, east of Catanuanes, Hon. Bong Teves Jr. was earlier educated in Baras. In 1975, due to his father’s death they relocated in Manila and eked out their living by engaging in small business selling dried fish and siopao in Alabang market in Muntinlupa. While helping his family, he continued attending his secondary education at Arellano University in Pasay City, and then his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree at Manuel L. Quezon University.

Thru the years, CARPEL has not only mastered the intricacies of buy and sell business of scrap, but also, equally important, learned the vital importance of a green environment to maintain the vitality of Mother Earth to sustain healthy human existence and embraced with firm conviction the role of sharing in the protection of the environment by way of the meaningful exercise of corporate responsibility. Thus the business was spun into a corporation incorporating the term “environment” into its official business name. As such, it has captured households, eco-aides, junk shops, waste and scrap entrepreneurs from small scale to big scale as suppliers. CARPEL now becomes one of the major suppliers to paper mills and other manufacturing companies. It also ventures in buying plastic materials, waste recycling and pelletizing. PUBLIC | GOVERNMENT SERVICE As demonstrated by his program implemented in Metro Manila, he is a private person in the mold of a public servant, or a person with an innate capacity to be a good public servant. In year 2001, at age 37, Bong Teves Jr. vied for the post of Mayor of Baras, his hometown. It was a clean sweep and even up to his 3rd term in 2007. His popular mandate was in effect an affirmation and recognition of his “perceived innate capacity to be a good public servant”. During his tenure of office as the Local Chief Executive (LCE) of his hometown, he indeed showed that he is a man of bold ideas and vision, especially for his birth place. His wide experience in corporate management, it turned out, was a great arsenal that gave him

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013 the tools for innovative ideas reinventing programs, projects and activities that have awakened his town from virtual economic dormancy. Today, Baras is a vibrant community with tourism as a new strong player contributing greater productive activities providing the locals additional sources of income. Indeed, it can be humbly said that being the Local Chief Executive of this town, a new BARAS has resurfaced. ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS VICE GOVERNOR | PROVINCIAL LEGISLATIVE HEAD GUIDED BY IDEALS From that of a local executive to that of a legislative position, his actions and decisions were always guided by democratic and nationalistic ideals, every time. Now the Vice Governor of Catanduanes, His Vision: “Progressive citizenry complemented with civil servants of high standard of morality and values”. His mission: “To promote the establishment of a just and equitable system of governance and development of the citizenry, regardless of one’s creed, race, and political status in life”. And his Advocacy: “Effective, Responsible and Responsive Legislations through regular consultation with the people”. Vice Governor Bong Teves anchored his General Working Principles and his 5-point Legislative Agenda on these vision and mission statements and advocacy. His 5-point T.E.V.E.S. Legislative Agenda for T - Tourism, E - Entrepreneurship, V - Volunteerism, E - Environmental Protection and S - Social Health and services has guided his program of government since his election as the Provincial Vice-Governor of Catanduanes. To implement his program of government with the end in view to achieve optimal results, his working governance principles with the acronym B.O.N.G., for B- Barangay beautification, environmental protection, and climate change mitigation and adaptation; O- Organized legislative actions and support to Executive Agenda; N- Non-partisan services for all, and G- Government of change, transparency and consultative democracy is his framework of reference. MAKING THINGS HAPPEN Legislations On his First term, Vice-Governor Bong Teves Jr. presided hundred ofs regular and tens of special sessions. Hundreds of resolutions were passed . These resolutions were on infrastructure, livelihood, maternal and child care, health programs and many others in support of the Executive Agenda of the former Governor Joseph C. Cua and now the Executivr Agenda of the new Governor, Hon. Araceli B. Wong. Power Development | Improvement Vice Governor Bong Teves is no stranger to the power supply problem that is plaguing the province, and he is no

stranger either to the fact that for development to take root and move forward, the local economy needs investments. And that a healthy investment climate needs, among others, a sustainable power sector to attract investors. As the province has a virtual insular economy, he is not averse to inviting medium scale processing or manufacturing concerns that will harness or develop the resource strengths or potentials of the province provided the technology is carbon neutral, as espoused in the PDPFP. Initially, he however batted for a ZERO Brown-out power service sector in the province thru legislative acts. It can be recalled that on Feb 22, 2011 session, the province power players, FICELCO, NAPOCOR, SUWECO and CPGI were invited to a legislative consultative meeting to discuss the issues of incessant power interruptions in the province. It was one of his agenda; a brown-out free province. It all paid off as power interruptions were lessened by 80%. INNATE LEADERSHIP With his B.O.N.G. governance working principles and T.E.V.E.S. development agenda, Vice-Governor Teves exemplifies the personality of a committed and visionary PUBLIC SERVANT. He vied for and elected as Deputy Secretary General for Luzon of the Liga ng mga Bise-Gobernador ng Pilipinas during his first term as Vice-Governor and now he was Vice-President for internal affairs. According to him, the position is not so much about personal adulation or satisfaction but in recognition of the fact that provinces are, by themselves, economic players with distinct strengths and weaknesses. As such, provinces under a system of management or any form of arrangement can work together to complement each other’s strengths, or address the weakness of one by the strength of the other. And thus, attain growth by working together and supporting each other in support of its individual agenda. It is an idea that he has been exploring and hopefully put to action in due time. STRONG TOURISM ADVOCATE He recognizes that local tourism is a growth area for the province, which is consistent with the proposal in the PPDFP. In his first year as Vice Governor, he gave tourism program a focus by heading the annual Catandungan Festival Executive Committee. Interestingly, thru his initiative as Chair of the Executive Committee, the culminating day of the festival was moved to October 26 instead of 24 as the actual foundation day of the province after a thorough study and consultation with the National Historical Commission on Commonwealth Act No. 667 (House Bill Bo. 301). In addition, from hereon during the celebration of the Catandungan Festival, different national and international TV networks are being invited to feature Catanduanes in the runup to the culminating day of festival as a way to promote the province as a tourist attraction.

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013

AN ENVIRONMENTALIST

YOUTH ORIENTED LEADER

In October 2011, He was awarded THE OUTSTANDING CATANDUNGANON AWARD for Environmental Protection in recognition for his environmental cause. This year He was named Chair of the TASK FORCE CLEAN and GREEN under Exec. Order no. 07 issued by Gov. Araceli Wong this July to implement protective measures against forest degradation, illegal logging and mining and to safeguard our environment.

Vice-Governor Jose Teves Jr. believes in the capacity of the youth and youth leadership. To develop future leaders from their ranks, he launched the Vice Governor Jose J. Teves, Jr. Leadership Award in March 2011 for graduating High School Students. A total of 136 students were nominated for the awards from 27 different schools and had 27 awardees for the school year 2010-2011. In SY 2011-2012, awards were given to 85 students and 78 students fro SY 2012-2013 from secondary and tertiary schools in the province. The search is aimed at recognizing exemplary student leaders who demonstrated excellence in leadership and service.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ORIENTED Vice-Governor Bong Teves Jr is not only an active legislative leader, he also helped in sourcing out funds in support of worthy rural development projects. He managed to get funding in the amount of Php16 Million peso worth of projects: Php 13 million pesos sourced out from the funds of Senator Tito Sotto for Simamla farm-to-market road and road opening; and Php 3 million pesos from Senator Bong Revilla Jr. for the improvement, repair and rehabilitation of Sto. Cristo barangay road to improve access to production areas, and for rural entrepreneurial preparation. To- date he is sourcing funds from different offices to complement with today’s leadership agenda of Governor Araceli B. Wong. STRONG ADVOCATE OF SOCIAL SERVICE & ASSISTANCE Out of his MOEE fund, a total of one million six hundred sixty three thousand and eight hundred sixty nine pesos (PhP 1,663,869.00) went to medical/financial and material assistance in the form of cash, medicines, cement, plywood, jetmatic water pump, flashlights and paints benefitting 127 barangays, 38 chapels and religious groups and 69 schools. These were on the first year of his term as Vice Governor and he continue to support every social service therein that needs his assistance.

He also donated his salaries to school projects of Student groups for environmental and academic projects. PRO-SOCIAL WORKER Cognizant of the important role of Day Care and PopCom workers in educating our children and giving health services to our mothers, the Vice-Governor gave personal cash incentives to all the 271 daycare and 330 PopCom workers in recognition for their unselfish services. HONORS AND DISTINCTONS • OUTSTANDING CATANDUNGANON Awardee for Environmental Protection • BEST MAYOR - NBN Channel 4 • Awardee, Lakbayin Magandang Pilipinas • NBN and anak TV, February 2009 • BEST LGU – 2002 TO 2005, Civil Service Commission • Awardee, Puraran Beach as Tourism Potential • Awardee, Nine-year Service as MLGU Chief Executive • Development Manager and Servant Leader Award • League of Municipalities of the Philippines, October 20, 2007

Outstanding Local Legislator Award 2013