By Ismael Amigo
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna — Laguna Gov. Sol Aragones, House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III and provincial lawmakers gathered here for a LegisHear aimed at bringing community concerns directly to Congress, with education, student safety and farmers’ welfare among the priority issues.
Dy said the consultation allows residents and local officials to air their concerns and offer recommendations that lawmakers could consider in crafting legislation responsive to the needs of their constituents.
He emphasized that effective lawmaking requires listening to people at the grassroots level, noting that communities across cities, municipalities and barangays face different challenges that deserve attention.
The Speaker identified access to education as a key concern in national budget deliberations, saying young Filipinos must be given opportunities to pursue their studies and improve their prospects.
He also urged parents, teachers, parent-teacher associations, barangay officials and local government units to strengthen coordination in protecting students from threats inside and outside school grounds.
Dy further cited farmers’ welfare as an issue requiring attention and recognized barangay officials as essential partners in implementing government programs, enforcing local ordinances and providing basic services.
He assured participants that the 20th Congress would continue gathering public input to help shape legislative proposals addressing local and national concerns.
Other officials present included Laguna representatives Loreto Amante of the Third District, Roy Gonzales of Santa Rosa City, Charisse Anne Hernandez of Calamba City, Ann Matibag of the First District, Ramil Hernandez of the Second District, and Benjamin Agarao Jr. of the Fourth District.
The LegisHear served as a venue for dialogue between lawmakers and local stakeholders on policies and programs affecting Laguna communities. (With reports from Roy Tomandao)
