June 3, 2009

Up to this very day, I still can’t believe that we made it despite all efforts to put us down, to destroy me, to make up stories against me, to put down the ability of the youth, to push aside those who are considered to be non “tumandoks” and to have all the forces of the powers that be in the City work hard against our victory.

To have become the youngest elected City Official at age 27 without any political background whatsoever in the City of Iloilo and I was just a new resident at that time of the City is a big accomplishment not only on my part but the part of those who believe that dreams do come true, that there is nothing impossible and we can as young people make a big difference. I was born in Iloilo City and I am now a proud resident of Barangay MV Hechanova, Jaro, Iloilo City. Furthermore, I am hoping to graduate from my first soon to be alma mater in Iloilo City, Central Philippine University once I finish my dissertation and receive my diploma as one of the youngest Doctor of Management with concentration in Public Management graduates. I am very thankful of the continued warm support of the people of Iloilo City.

I always put in my mind that without the resident of the City, I wouldn’t have made it to my post right now. They are my boss. I owe to them my position and the level of influence I have right now. This is what guides me in making well thought of decisions for them and to strive for excellent public service by working even beyond what is expected and mandated of and from me. Together with concerned individuals, organizations, sectors and stakeholders, I work with them for the creation of meaningful and innovative legislation and even special programs and projects. I believe in working well together and in continuous consultations. I also would like to believe that I work well beyond political affiliations as long as it is for the good of the City. I love Iloilo City and I always put its best interest first.

After being blessed to have won a seat in the City Council, talks started that I am aiming for a higher post specifically as City Vice Mayor. If ever I run for it I will be the youngest candidate for the post and the youngest to hold the position if ever I make it. To be honest, I never thought of running for a higher post. What I wanted was just to serve the City in any capacity that the people will entrust to me. I never thought that a then candidate for city councilor who was thought of as a long shot winner will be considered as a serious and viable contender for a higher post in Iloilo City. I am honored, privileged and blessed to be even considered as such and to get the trust, admiration and support of people of my beloved City.

As of the moment, I am still undecided. There are so many factors to consider and so many things to think about. As I said before, I will continue to serve the city at my best and to listen to its people. If the people feel I would be of best service to them as City Councilor, then I will just run for re-election for the time being but if they would ask me to run and become the youngest City Vice Mayor, then I will listen and follow their advice. They will be the one to decide and to lend to the position to the person they believe would be of best service to the city in that particular capacity.

At this point, I am asking for your comments and suggestions. What position do you think I should run for? Let me know. I will listen to each one of you who will be kind enough to give me their advice. Please send me a message to councilorlextupas@yahoo.com or post a comment here in my blog. Thank you very much and I will be waiting for your emails. My political strength is from the people of Iloilo City. I trust to you guys and to the Lord my political fate and fortune.

Para sa kauswagan sang Syudad sang Iloilo, Ugyon Kabataang Ilonggo, UGYON Iloilo. Ilonggos are worth working and fighting for.