New weekly forum examines party-list agenda, legislative priorities

MANILA, Philippines — The inaugural session of “Bakit Kayo sa Kongreso?” (Why Are You in Congress?) successfully launched on Monday, February 17, at Tribute Hotel in Quezon City.

The weekly forum, hosted by journalist-educator Pia Roces Morato, serves as a vital platform for dissecting pressing national issues and scrutinizing the legislative priorities of party-list groups vying for congressional seats.

The forum is slated every Monday, with the next session featuring Rhodel Oden Sermonia of the United Frontliners Partylist. The debut episode welcomed Dr. Lorraine Marie Badoy and Atty. Marlon Bosantog, nominees of the Epanaw Partylist. Discussions delved into equitable access to essential services for marginalized communities, the preservation of cultural heritage, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.

A significant part of the discussion focused on strengthening land rights protection for Indigenous Peoples (IPs), farmers, and the urban poor. Panelists underscored the urgent need for enhanced government support, fair labor practices, and inclusive social services to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable communities by communist terrorist groups and their affiliated organizations. Media representatives are encouraged to attend and cover upcoming forums, providing critical insights into the legislative direction of party-list groups.