LET me share my 100 days of service. That way it becomes my report card.
I am the chairperson of the market, trade, commerce and agriculture and a member of the committee of tourism, special events, parks and playground, a member of the committee on employment, livelihood, cooperatives, and people with disability.
With joint efforts of the mayor, the departments, the City council divisions and other partners we were able to conduct public hearings, meetings and consultation that lead to legislative actions.
I believe in a participatory government where the stakeholders are part of the whole process of decision-making and program implementation.
Market concerns
Meeting with the Baguio solid vendors and lechon vendors led to the clearing of the Market tree park and reiteration for compliance of their permits.
A meeting with more than 600 roving/ambulant vendors resulted in the Mayor declaring that he will no longer issue new special permits and the City council to no longer be a recommendee ambulant vendors and finally an alternative livelihood program for roving vendors.
In September 9, the city council approved the resolution reiterating the prohibition of vending along streets, sidewalks, alleys and passageways in the city market and the central business district.
A meeting with the vendors of the Carinderia building leading to a “market monthly cleaning day” and the proposed “Rillera Building ordinance.”
A continuing dialogue with the Modernized City market TWG and the market vendors lead to us crafting the proposed Ordinance “The Modernized City Market ordinance of 2019.”
The TWG has completed their architectural design and the feasibility study is being completed. We have just presented the program for possible funding.
Two general assembly with the 1067 night market vendors lead to the use of a uniform tent and a proposed resolution that did not pass in the city council.
Six barangay district consultation and public hearings were conducted for the proposed “Baguio City Barangay District Satellite markets Ordinance”.
At least two locations are initiating the set-up of satellite markets in Irisan and in the Dontogan district.
The public hearing needed on its second reading the Pacdal Gibraltar Satellite Market was conducted with the response that the district seeks funding and the expansion of the market to the Pacdal area.
The barangays affected have fully supported the project and passed their own resolution in support for the market to be established in the district.
City agricultural concerns
A meeting with the agricultural body and the coffee growers leading to the proposed ordinance known as the Baguio Coffee Ordinance setting the guidelines in the creation of an organization to undertake trainings and investments in the Baguio Coffee brand.
That trade fairs, agricultural fairs should be actively participated on by our local vendors and business folks.
Resolution passed encouraging all sectors in the city of Baguio to participate in coffee farming. The first Assembly of 32 coffee growers was held last October 12 with resource person Chit Juan of Echostores and Dr. Aguinalde of University of the Cordilleras.
Resolution seeking the President to cede to the city of Baguio the remaining portions of the Slaughter compound. So the city can finally make a comprehensive plan for a north bound terminal, slaughter house and a satellite market.
Trade and consumer protection
Proposed ordinance requiring compliance to product labeling for manufacturers, retailers and distributors of processed fruits and nuts and other processed foods of Baguio and to sell and distribute “pasalubong food products” only and ensure consumer protection through proper information and choice.
Proposed ordinance prohibiting excessive and inappropriate use of agrochemicals and mandating wholesalers and retailers to record origin of products they sell has been filed.
Public hearing of the Mercury Ordinance has gained a general confirmation of business owners and mall operations. It is now for approval on its third and final reading.
It is indeed a privilege to serve as your city councilor. I own this to many:
Firstly my Father - Councilor Galo Weygan who supported a call to serve the city;To the Nationalista Party that supported my campaign; And to the people of this character City of Baguio.
Most of all, God. Without Him I would not have my bearing a future. It is God who has given Hope and understanding that guides me. He is the source of blessings, and my shield in times of trouble and in danger, the blanket that comforts.
Public service is a privilege and of trust. It is consultative and participatory for the attainment of mutual goals for the good and a service to God and his people.
To all of us, I encourage a deep commitment to God and seek Him in all times. And if you have not developed a personal relationship with Him, then make it a priority for it will be a beacon that dictates what is right, what is good and what is true.