CITY OF MALOLOS — A new chapter officially began for Bulacan’s legislative branch as the 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the Provincial Government of Bulacan convened its inaugural session recently.
Led by Vice Governor Alexis C. Castro, the “Pasinayang Pagpupulong ng Ika-12 Sangguniang Panlalawigan at Paglalahad ng Kalagayan ng Lalawigan” saw all newly elected and re-elected Provincial Board Members gather in Senador Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. Session Hall of the Provincial Capitol Building here.
In his inaugural address, Castro delivered a compelling call for unity, transparency, and proactive legislation, all designed to seamlessly complement the overarching vision of the Provincial Government of Bulacan.
“Tayo po sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan ay may tungkuling higit pa sa pagpasa ng mga batas. Tayo ay dapat maging haligi ng dangal, talino, at malasakit. Ang ating mga ordinansa at resolusyon ay dapat magmula sa puso para sa edukasyon ng kabataan, kaligtasan ng mga lansangan, katiyakan sa kalusugan, at kapakanan ng bawat Pamilyang Bulakenyo,” Castro stated, underscoring the profound responsibility of the legislative body.
He further vowed to hold negligent services like PrimeWater accountable, stand firm against the destructive impact of online gambling, and prioritize the rehabilitation of crucial infrastructure such as the Marilao Interchange Bridge and Bustos Dam, all in the name of ensuring Bulacan’s safety, welfare, and progress.
The 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan comprises a dynamic roster of representatives including from the First District, Board Members Michael M. Aquino and Romina D. Fermin, who was notably elected Minority Floor Leader; Second District is represented by Erlene Luz V. dela Cruz, now the Majority Floor Leader, and Lee Edward V. Nicolas; the Third District welcomes Raul A. Mariano and Romeo “RC Nono” V. Castro, Jr.; the Fourth District is represented by Anna Kathrina M. Hernandez and William R. Villarica; the Fifth District is represented by Richard A. Roque and Cezar L. Mendoza, who takes on the role of Assistant Majority Floor Leader; from the Sixth District are Renato DL. De Guzman, Jr. and Arthur A. Legaspi; and lastly, the Lone District of the City of San Jose del Monte is represented by Enrique A. Delos Santos, Jr. and Efren C. Bartolome, Jr.
Adding to the legislative breadth are the Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s ex-officio members: Board Members Francis Jerome G. Reyes, president of the Provincial Councilors League; Fortunato SJ. Angeles, president of the Provincial League of Barangays; Casey Tyrone E. Howard, president of the Sangguniang Kabataan Provincial Federation; and Liberato P. Sembrano, the Indigenous People Appointed Official.
Castro also took a moment to laud the achievements of the 11th Sangguniang Panlalawigan, highlighting their commendable accomplishments over their three-year term.
He proudly noted the passage of 44 ordinances and 2,910 resolutions, the result of an impressive 970 committee hearings and 10 public hearings attended by board members, government officials, experts, and engaged Bulakenyo citizens. With a total of 158 sessions conducted, he emphasized that these efforts truly reflect a vibrant and active legislature working in concert with the provincial government’s executive branch.
Following the inaugural session, Governor Daniel R. Fernando delivered his highly anticipated State of the Province Address where he outlined key programs focused on health, education, livelihood and development, environment and waste management, and flood control. (UnliNews Online)
Photos: Allan Casipit
