A CAGAYAN de Oro native and a former journalist, public service is not a new thing for Girlie Balaba.

Apart from her time as newscaster of Star FM Bombo Radyo and as anchor/reporter of ABC-5 and ABS-CBN-Davao, Balaba has been serving the people for years through different programs that caters to the needs of children, elderlies, women and the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) community.

Balaba has visited several barangays in the second district of Cagayan de Oro to promote nutrition and health via the sustainable feeding program and medical aid for children. She also provided assistance to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

She worked with the LGBT community by extending her support to their activities in the barangay. And as a woman who believes in “girl power,” Balaba has been supporting women by identifying their needs and plans for development and empowerment.

At present, Girlie is running for councilor in the second district.

“Karon nisabak ko aning politika kay gusto nako mahimong usa ka tingog na pud. Adtong una, nahimo kong tingog sa tv, karon naninghuwa ko nga mahimo ko’g tingog sa konseho dinhi sa atong dakbayan,” Balaba said.

Balaba said some of the programs she wanted to propose if she became a councilor are localized social pension for senior citizens, technical vocational education support for PWDs, and others. (PR)