New local leaders told: Prioritize needs of constituents

LEGAZPI CITY – The 1,701 newly elected and reelected village and Sangguniang Kabataan (youth) officials of the second district of Albay should prioritize the needs of their constituents as they serve as front-liners of the government in delivering public services.

"Barangay is the foundation of governance. Your actions, decisions and integrity will shake the day-to-day lives of your constituents," Ako Bicol Party-list congressman and House Committee on Appropriation chair Elizaldy Co told local leaders during their mass oath-taking ceremony here on Sunday.

Co said they are held to a higher standard than regular citizens.

"The promises you have made before the law and before our fellow Albayanos are not merely ceremonial but they are sacred vows to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and honesty," he added.

The elected officials were from the towns of Rapu-Rapu, Manito, Daraga, Camalig and Legazpi City.

Meanwhile, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos challenged elected village officials to perform with integrity that inspires their communities.

"Leadership is not about power. Leadership is about responsibility. It is about service to the public. We need each of you to be a leader who has integrity, who has vision, and one who inspires and unites the community," Abalos said in a news release on Sunday.

Abalos encouraged the winners to focus on programs that address basic concerns, particularly nutrition, health for mothers and children, and illegal drugs.

DILG-Albay director Ray Caceres, who also witnessed the mass oath-taking, reminded the winners to submit their Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE).

Section 14 of Republic Act 7166, or the Synchronized National and Local Elections and Electoral Reforms Act, stipulates that candidates should file their SOCE within 30 days after the day of the elections (Oct. 30).

Failure to file the SOCE before the Commission on Elections precludes the elected official from assuming official duties. (PNA)