The installation was made possible through Ordinance No. 25-808, otherwise known as the Peoples Empowerment Ordinance of Isabela City, which institutionalizes the participation of civil society organizations and community stakeholders in local governance.

Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman likewise underscored the significance of the event, describing it as a historic day for both Isabela City and its people. “This is indeed a very historic day for Isabela City and for the people of Isabela,” the mayor said. She shared that her experience working closely with civil society organizations had shown the importance of bridging the perspectives and capacities of both government and CSOs to achieve meaningful reforms and development outcomes.

Mayor Hataman also expressed her gratitude to the Sangguniang Panlungsod for institutionalizing the Isabela City Peoples Council before the end of her term, noting that sectoral representation has the potential to bring about meaningful change and reform in governance.

She emphasized that while Pastor Paulino will serve as an ex officio member of the City Council, his role goes beyond individual representation. “Ang isa lang sigurong value added ni Pastor Paulino ay siya ay bunga ng pagtawid ng CSO sa formal institutions of governance,” she said, highlighting that his appointment symbolizes the integration of civil society voices into formal governance structures.

Newly appointed Isabela City People’s Council (ICPC) President Ronald Paulino expressed gratitude, humility, and a strong commitment to represent the voices of civil society organizations as he addressed fellow leaders and stakeholders during his message. Acknowledging the responsibility entrusted to him, Paulino emphasized the importance of seeking guidance from God in carrying out his duties. “If we lack wisdom, we can always ask from Him and it will be given to us. And we can do the things that God wanted us to do,” Paulino said.

He admitted that the position comes with challenges and expectations, but assured the public that he would remain mindful of his responsibilities and limitations. “I’ll be observant on the things that I’ll be doing, observing even the limitations that I have, and pray that I can never overstep anybody,” he said. Paulino stressed that leadership should be exercised through cooperation and collective action, noting that meaningful progress can only be achieved when different sectors work together. “We can corroborate for the betterment of the people of Isabela City,” he said.

Referring to the weight of public service, Paulino cited a popular saying about leadership and responsibility. “A great power comes with great responsibility,” he remarked, emphasizing the expectations that come with representing the people. He also acknowledged the support of the various organizations that form part of the people’s council, saying that his appointment was made possible through their trust and confidence. “I’m here because of them” Paulino said.

As representative of civil society organizations, he pledged to ensure that their voices are heard in council deliberations and decision-making processes. “Whatever decisions that we have, this will be their voice. Not only a voice—I hope and pray that we can tell them what is going on in the Council, and it will be vice versa,” he said.

Paulino further emphasized the need for stronger engagement between the council and community organizations to address local concerns and identify practical solutions. “We can, as well as the Council, probably find solutions towards our problems and work it out for the betterment of everybody,” he added

In his speech, Councilor James Abner Rodriguez described the occasion as a historic moment for the city. “Today, we have opened the doors of local governance to the very people we swore to serve,” Rodriguez said. “The true democracy is not just about governing for the people. It is about governing with the people.”

Rodriguez also emphasized that the ordinance was conceptualized under the leadership of Mayor Turabin-Hataman to democratize governance and directly involve citizens in decision-making and policy-making processes.

As Peoples Council Representative, Pastor Paulino will serve as a non-voting member of the Sangguniang Panlungsod and is expected to actively participate in committee deliberations by providing insights and perspectives from civil society, faith-based organizations, and other community sectors.

The installation underscores the City Government’s commitment to accountability, inclusivity, and grassroots empowerment by ensuring that the voices of the people are directly represented in local legislative processes. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)