Malasakit at malinis na intensyon.

These are the basic traits a political leader should have at a time where the government is confronted with issues of corruption and lack of public trust, an outstanding public servant said.

At a symposium with members of Liga ng mga Barangay in Palawan, Valenzuela City Congressman Win Gatchalian told around 200 barangay officials that having a great concern for constituents and clean intention will pave a way for public welfare.

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“Sa dami ng isyu na lumabas ngayon sa pulitika, talagang ‘di mo masisi ang mga Pilipino kung bakit nawawalan na sila ng tiwala sa gobyerno,” Gatchalian told barangay officials.

“Kaya dapat magkaroon tayo ng malasakit at malinis na intensyon. Sa ganitong paraan, magagawa natin nang maayos ang ating tungkulin, magkakaroon ng pagbabago at, higit sa lahat, maipadadama natin sa mamamayan na malaki ang magagawa ng gobyerno upang paunlarin ang kanilang buhay,” he explained.

Gatchalian, who served as mayor of Valenzuela City from 2004 to 2013, also encouraged local officials to be more accessible and approachable to the public in offering basic services and assistance.

“Lagi ko din naririnig ang kasabihan na: ‘Madaling lapitan ngunit mahirap hanapin.’ Dapat matigil na ito. Maging present tayo lagi sa mga proyekto at panatilihin nating bukas ang ating tanggapan para sa mga nangangailangan,” Gatchalian said.

“Marami ng paraan ngayon upang makipag-communicate sa ating mga nasasakupan, katulad ng Internet at social media,” he added.

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Gatchalian also advised barangay officials should also support grassroots programs that will allow people to support the financial needs of their family.

He added that details of government projects should be easily available to constituents for public scrutiny to avoid issues of corruption and malversation.

“Sa halip na mag-sponsor tayo ng mga pageant o paliga, bakit ‘di nalang tayo magkaroon ng mga job fair o magpagawa ng mga water pumps na mas malaki ang magiging impact sa komunidad,” Gatchalian said.

“Programa na may kaugnayan sa ekonomiya na ikauunlad at ikagiginhawa ng payak na mamamayan ang dapat nating mas pagtuunan ng pansin,” he said. (Tim Alcantara)