By Raymund Antonio
Vice President Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo underscored that real empowerment among Filipinos happens when they are able to help and empower other people, especially those in need.
Vice President Leni Robredo
(Kevin Tristan Espiritu / MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
Robredo told Rotarians in San Fernando, La Union that everyone played a vital role in the “transformative change” of the country.
“Each one of you can be the source of empowerment. Each one of you can make a lot of difference in the way our people in the fringes live. All we have to do is listen and reach out to where we are most needed,” she said.
“We have always dreamed of a country where no one is left behind. If more people work together in making this dream a reality, the impossible can become possible,” Robredo added.
The Vice President delivered the message before the Rotary Club of San Fernando, La Union for its 61st induction of new officers Tuesday night at Hotel Ariana in Bauang, La Union.
Speaking on the theme “The Leaders We Need Today,” she emphasized that change did not start from one leader, but must come from all the people by engaging and working with others.
Robredo shared the inspiring stories of the beneficiaries of her flagship anti-poverty program, “Angat Buhay”, funded through partnerships with the private sector.
The former lawmaker mentioned the story of students in Sumilao, Bukidnon; Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte; and Balangkayan, Eastern Samar, where the dropout rate is high because they have to walk very far going to school.
She also recalled her visit to Agutaya, a remote municipality in northern Palawan that had no electricity, potable water, and hospital. Many children were also stunted in the town.
Angat Buhay and its private partners extended help to these poor and far-flung areas by constructing dormitories in public schools, providing boats to seaweed fishermen, hygiene kits and vitamins for children, and other forms of assistance.
Robredo, in her remarks, exhorted the Rotarians to continue their “selfless service and commitment” to Filipinos towards a “more just and inclusive” society.
“Organizations like yours are important in the growth of every democracy. As we face today's world of uncertainties and during these extraordinary times, we are called on to think beyond our usual circles, and extend our reach to those who need it most,” she said.
“We are here today because we are enjoined by a similar cause, a goal that we can achieve as one: that we can make the dream work if and only if we pave the way for our fellow Filipinos to reach greater heights, and become so much more,” she added.