TACLOBAN City, Leyte – Quinapondan Mayor Atty. Raffy Asebias, a prominent local leader, has officially outlined his platform for governor of Eastern Samar, offering a clear and detailed vision for the province’s future.
With a strong focus on sustainable development, participatory governance, and social welfare, Asebias aims to address the pressing needs of Eastern Samar’s residents and drive the province toward a more prosperous and equitable future.
During his announcement, Asebias emphasized several key programs and policies he plans to implement if elected as governor.
His platform is designed to uplift the lives of marginalized sectors, enhance local governance, and protect the province’s natural resources.
Here is a quick look at his pro-people platform:
1. Sustainable Agriculture & Fisheries Development
Asebias plans to implement a robust Agriculture and Fisheries Development Program aimed at reducing poverty in rural communities. He recognizes agriculture and fisheries as critical sectors for the province’s economy, and under his leadership, these industries will be modernized to increase productivity while promoting eco-tourism as an essential part of Eastern Samar’s economic development.
“We will prioritize agricultural sustainability to ensure that our farmers and fishermen are empowered. Along with agriculture, we will also develop eco-tourism, creating more economic opportunities while preserving our natural beauty,” Asebias said.
2. Participatory Governance and Civil Society Engagement
Asebias envisions a governance system where civil society organizations (CSOs) play an integral role in decision-making. He plans to create a mechanism for genuine CSO participation in the Local Development Council and other special bodies. A Provincial People’s Council will also be established to serve as a partner in social development planning, budgeting, and project monitoring.
“My goal is to foster a transparent and participatory governance system where the people’s voices are truly heard in all levels of decision-making,” Asebias added.
3. Transparency and Anti-Corruption Measures
Transparency will be a cornerstone of Asebias’ administration. He is committed to enforcing strict anti-corruption policies in all provincial government transactions. This includes acknowledging a third-party CSO audit to ensure proper monitoring of government funds, guaranteeing transparency, accountability, and good governance.
“We will put in place transparency policies to prevent corruption, and the people will know exactly how their taxes are being used,” he stressed.
4. Environmental Protection and Conservation
As a passionate advocate for the environment, Asebias has pledged to protect the province’s natural resources and biodiversity. He is staunchly opposed to mining and logging activities that could damage Eastern Samar’s forests, pollute its waters, and destroy its ecosystems.
“Our natural resources are our legacy, and we will defend them. We will not allow destructive mining and logging activities that harm our environment,” Asebias affirmed.
5. Social Protection for Vulnerable Groups
Asebias aims to create a rights-based and sustainable social protection program focused on improving the welfare of elderly citizens, women, children, and persons with disabilities (PWDs), the LGBTQ community and solo parents. This program will provide targeted support to vulnerable sectors to ensure they live with dignity and security.
“We must ensure that our elders, women, children, and PWDs are given the attention they deserve. We will create programs that protect and uplift these sectors,” he said.
6. Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparedness
Recognizing Eastern Samar’s vulnerability to natural disasters, Asebias will implement a rational disaster risk reduction fund allocation to ensure that municipalities with limited resources receive the necessary support to develop disaster preparedness and response capabilities.
“Eastern Samar is no stranger to calamities, and we need a disaster response system that is equitable and effective. We will ensure that funds are distributed fairly, especially to municipalities that need it most,” Asebias stated.
7. Youth Scholarship Program
To provide greater opportunities for youth, Asebias will overhaul the provincial scholarship program, ensuring sustainable support for students from senior high school to college graduation. This initiative aims to enable young people to pursue higher education and achieve their full potential, regardless of their economic background.
“Our youth are our future, and we must invest in them. A restructured scholarship program will ensure that every deserving student has the chance to succeed,” Asebias explained.
A Vision for a Progressive Eastern Samar
As the provincial elections approach, Asebias’ platform has already begun to resonate with many Eastern Samar residents, particularly those in rural areas who are eager for change.
His focus on sustainable development, inclusive governance, and social welfare sets him apart as a candidate who genuinely understands the needs of the people.
“Together, we will bring progress to Eastern Samar—where everyone, from the farmers in the fields to the students in classrooms, will feel the benefits of good governance,” Asebias concluded.
With his extensive experience in local governance, Asebias is poised to offer the leadership Eastern Samar needs to navigate the challenges of the future.
His candidacy is expected to garner widespread support as he continues to outline his detailed plans for the province’s growth and development. ai/PAN
