“The role of a legislator is not just to pass laws (but to be) a bridge – a voice that connects the halls of power to the hopes of the people”
TODAY is the last session day of the 19th Congress. Our term of office doesn’t officially end until June 30, but the Constitution says Congress must adjourn sine die 30 days before the next regular session.
It’s one of those quiet markers of time that invites reflection. And today, I find myself looking back—with gratitude, humility, and a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be a legislator.
When I first stepped into the halls of Congress, I already knew the responsibility would be great. But nothing really prepares one for the weight of crafting laws that could shape lives, change communities, and define a generation’s direction.
Legislating, I’ve come to realize, is not just about writing bills or giving speeches—it’s about translating the hopes and needs of our people into action. And that’s no small task. But it is, without a doubt, one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done.
In my first term, I was blessed with the opportunity to author more than 400 bills.
Over 40 of those have been signed into law by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. That includes the very first law passed under this administration—the SIM Registration Act.
I also had the chance to author other landmark laws, like the Internet Transactions Act, the Ease of Paying Taxes Act, and the New Philippine Passport Act. Each of these laws speaks to our desire to modernize governance, make public service more accessible, and protect the rights of every Filipino in today’s digital and globalized world.
Some laws are close to the heart—like the measure granting benefits to Filipino octogenarians, nonagenarians, and centenarians, or the law ensuring students can take exams even without paying fees up front.
Others respond to growing needs—like the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Act, Ligtas Pinoy Act, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act. These are more than just policies.
They are proof that public service can be both responsive and compassionate.
I also authored several laws that directly benefit Eastern Visayas—like the creation of Leyte Normal University’s San Isidro campus, and the franchise extension of LEYECO II. I know these may not make national headlines, but for the people in my region, they make all the difference. They mean opportunity, access, and hope.
Beyond laws, I’ve taken part in meaningful work that extends across sectors. As Chairperson of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, I sponsored the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers—a long-awaited law that upholds the rights of those who bring pride and economic strength to our nation from across the seas.
I’ve had the privilege to serve in key leadership positions—as a member of the powerful Rules Committee serving both as Deputy Majority Leader and Assistant Majority Leader. and. I was part of the drafting team that prepared the House Rules for the 19th Congress.
I also participated in bicameral conferences, including the one that finalized the 2025 General Appropriations Act. These roles showed me that good governance is built not just on big ideas, but on careful negotiation, thoughtful deliberation, and teamwork.
One of the most formative experiences has been my role as Commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2). Education reform is deeply personal for me, and I remain committed to the vision of creating an education system that is inclusive, future-ready, and rooted in the realities of our communities.
More than anything, this first term has reminded me that the true work of legislation is about people. Behind every bill, every policy, every committee hearing, are lives that hang in the balance—students, workers, senior citizens, overseas Filipinos, mothers, fathers, young dreamers. Their stories give meaning to this job.
The role of a legislator is not just to pass laws. It’s to be a bridge—a voice that connects the halls of power to the hopes of the people. And to do that well, you need more than just intellect or technical skill. You need heart. You need to listen. You need to serve with sincerity.
As the curtain falls on this chapter of the 19th Congress, I’m filled with a deeper sense of purpose. The work is far from over. There is still much to do. But with every lesson learned, every law passed, and every life touched, I am reminded why I chose this path in the first place.
To everyone who has journeyed with us—thank you. To those we serve—padayon kita. We move forward, together.
