By Helen Castaño | 11:57 AM September 30, 2026
PANGLAO, Bohol — Local government officials must strengthen their communities’ ability to prepare for crises, protect vulnerable sectors and pursue progress that directly benefits the people, Philippine Councilors League (PCL) Region 7 president Ricardo “Kuya Nick” Pepito said.
In his speech during the PCL Region 7 Week Celebration 2026 here, Pepito said councilors must recognize the impact of their decisions on the lives of their constituents, particularly during disasters, public health emergencies, economic crises and security concerns.
“When crisis comes, they look to us,” Pepito said, noting that local governments are often the first institutions residents turn to during emergencies.
The PCL Region 7 celebration, held from Sept. 29 to Oct. 1, carries the theme, “Anchoring Local Governance on Global Resilience, Protecting Filipinos Across Borders.”
Pepito said local governance must be “globally aware and locally responsive” as communities face challenges such as climate change, pandemics and economic crises.
“Resilience is not only about surviving. We prepare. We adapt. We recover. We rise stronger,” he said.
He urged councilors to strengthen disaster preparedness, health services, livelihood, education and environmental programs.
“Ang ordinance nga atong ipasa dili lang papel. Ang budget nga atong susihon dili lang numero,” Pepito said, emphasizing that every government decision can affect a person’s life.
Protecting Filipinos
Pepito also called for greater support for Filipinos living and working outside their home provinces and overseas, including workers, professionals, seafarers, caregivers, entrepreneurs and students.
He said local governments should support their families, improve information systems and provide opportunities for those who return to the Philippines.
“Bisan asa pa moadto ang usa ka Filipino, they should always have a place they can call home,” he said.
Pepito described councilors as more than lawmakers, calling them community builders, policymakers, problem solvers and bridge builders.
He challenged them to consider who would benefit from every ordinance and policy, its impact and whether it would prepare communities for the future.
“Their term may end, but the effects of our decisions will remain with the people,” he said.
Pepito summarized his message in three words: “Prepare. Protect. Progress.”
He said genuine progress should not be measured only through buildings and projects but through the lives improved by government decisions.
“Masukod kini sa mga kinabuhi nga atong nausab alang sa mas maayo,” he said.
Pepito, a Toledo City councilor, serves as national vice chairperson of the PCL-National Federation, president of the PCL-Cebu Federation and president of PCL Region 7. He is also an ex-officio member of the Cebu Provincial Board by virtue of his PCL-Cebu presidency.
