Be ‘proactive’ in times of crisis

CEBU, Philippines — Local legislators from across Cebu were challenged to take a more proactive role in crisis governance, school safety, and consumer protection during the Mid-Year General Assembly 2026 of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL)-Cebu Provincial Federation on Thursday.

Philippine Councilors League-Cebu Provincial Federation President and Toledo City Councilor Ricardo “Kuya Nick” Pepito, in his keynote address themed “Strength in Action: Strategies for Legislators in Crisis” during the PCL-CPF Mid-Year General Assembly held recently, highlighted the need for “decisive and responsive leadership.”

This came as he stressed that public officials are expected to deliver concrete solutions, particularly during disasters, economic hardships, and other community crises.

“Leadership is not defined by how we govern during times of comfort, but by how we respond when our communities face adversity. In every challenge that confronts our municipalities and barangays, our people do not listen to excuses, they look for solutions,” Pepito said.

“They do not wait for promises, they expect action. That is where we, as leaders, must rise to the occasion,” Pepito said.

To Pepito, the assembly was more than just a routine gathering but rather a convergence of leaders committed to strengthening governance amid adversity.

He emphasized that the role of legislators extends beyond enacting ordinances and resolutions, saying that councilors are entrusted with protecting public welfare, safeguarding communities, and ensuring that essential government services reach constituents with urgency, compassion, and integrity.

“We are entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that essential services reach the people and that their needs are addressed with urgency, compassion, and integrity,” he added.

Pepito also encouraged fellow councilors to maximize the assembly as a venue for sharing best practices and developing strategies that would strengthen local councils and governance systems across Cebu.

“Let us use this opportunity to strengthen our commitment to responsive and effective governance. Let us challenge ourselves to become leaders who do not merely react to crises, but leaders who anticipate, prepare, and act decisively for the welfare of our constituents,” he said.

He expressed confidence that, with unity, determination, and a shared vision, local legislators can overcome challenges and achieve their goals for their respective communities.

Meanwhile, Department of the Interior and Local Government Cebu Provincial Director Dr. Jesus Robel T. Sastrillo Jr. also called on councilors to institutionalize stronger school safety measures amid increasing security concerns in educational institutions.

Sastrillo, speaking at the same assembly, urged local legislators to pass ordinances establishing comprehensive school security protocols, emergency response systems, and stronger coordination among local government units, schools, law enforcement agencies, disaster risk reduction offices, and communities.

He also encouraged the passage of preventive programs addressing bullying, youth violence, and juvenile delinquency to create safer learning environments.

For his part, Engr. Jose Rey Maleza, chief of the Oil Industry Management Division of the Department of Energy–Visayas, also outlined the government's response to fuel price volatility brought about by global supply disruptions, particularly tensions in the Middle East.

Maleza acknowledged the burden of rising fuel prices on motorists, public utility drivers, businesses, and households but assured local officials that the country maintains sufficient fuel inventories and that there is no need for panic buying.

He appealed to councilors to help monitor local fuel retailers to ensure that mandated rollbacks are immediately implemented and to prevent profiteering and unauthorized price increases.

The DOE official likewise highlighted ongoing government enforcement under Executive Order No. 110, which authorizes authorities to impose price controls, penalize abusive market practices, and strengthen measures against hoarding.

He said the agency is coordinating closely with local government units to recommend the suspension or revocation of the business permits of fuel stations found violating pricing regulations or engaging in illegal trading practices.

Maleza also clarified that while restrictions remain on unauthorized bulk fuel purchases during emergencies, legitimate users such as registered fishing vessels, hospitals, telecommunication facilities, emergency generators, and agricultural operators are still allowed to purchase fuel in approved containers, subject to existing regulations. (CEBU NEWS)