The newly elected officers of the Lady Local Legislators League of the Philippines (4L) in Metro Manila are calling for more action plans to address more diligently the gender disparity woes in the country.

Department of the Interior and Local Government National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin cited the lady legislators “for the positive impact they have made on urban society and the unwavering commitment they continue to push towards empowering women.’’

In a statement on Saturday, July 1, Agustin argued “As a nation, how can we address the prevailing gender disparity in virtually every aspect of our national life, if not by placing more women in positions of power in our society?”

She affirmed and emphasized the important role women government officials play and their potential to effect positive societal change.

On Thursday, June 29, the 4L NCR Chapter elected its officers during a convention held at the Quezon City Hall where “esteemed female legislators from the local government units (LGUs) of the NCR gathered to mark this significant event.’’

“The Department of the Interior and Local Government–National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) played a pivotal role in the 4L elections by facilitating and overseeing the smooth conduct of the election proper,’’ the DILG noted.

During the event, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte highlighted the impactful ordinances sponsored by female Quezon City councilors that have improved women’s lives.

She underscored the need for women government officials to prioritize family, the youth and gender equality.

The 4L elected officers are as follows:

President–Maria Luisa Angela Martinez de Leon-Rivera (Pasig City)
Vice President–Mary Grace Bustonera Santos (Pasay City)
Secretary–Carmina Crisostomo Ortega (Makati City)
Treasurer–Arlene Maile Ilagan Atienza (City of Manila)
Auditor–Leah Milanes Bacolod (Caloocan City)
P.R.O-.Nina Celine Rubite Sotto (Parañaque City)

The Board of Directors include Paty Katy Buncayao (Muntinlupa City), Maria Aurora Cabochan Suntay (Quezon City), Pamela Garcia Fugoso (City of Manila), Aurora Henson Jr. (Caloocan City), Arlene Hilapo (Muntinlupa City), Roselle C. Sabino-Sy (Valenzuela City), Maria Dolores Arayon (Makati City), Maria Concepcion Charmagne Mencias Ferrer (Quezon City), Analiza Lufi San (Navotas City) and Fanella Joy Bote Panga-Cruz (Taguig City).

Agustin administered the oath of office to the newly-elected officers.

The 4L has been a dynamic force in promoting and legislating women’s participation in local governance as it is an advocate for women’s rights and empowerment, provides training and development opportunities for women in government and collaborates with other organizations to advance the cause of women.