Zambales Rep. Mitos Magsaysay pushes for countryside dev’t

TAGBILARAN CITY, Philippines – Full development of the countryside, coupled with the decentralization of the local government units must be done to decongest metro cities in the country and solve migration problems.

This was the gist of the programs outlined this early by Zambales 1st district Rep. Milagros “Mitos” Magsaysay once elected to the Senate in the 2013 polls.

Mitos was in Bohol last Saturday as guest of honor in the foundation day of Baclayon, the oldest town in Bohol upon the invitation of Mayor Alvin Uy and local officials. She later held a press conference where she presented her platforms in the Senate.

The Senate hopeful, running under the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), told the press that LGUs must be empowered first towards countryside development. Roads and bridges must be improved, water systems must be developed and resources for generation of power must be harnessed to attract investors into these places away from the metropolis, she said.

Mitos also said she would invest in education and information technology, citing manpower as the country’s most important asset. While having Filipinos work overseas may be a good opportunity, the government should pour more funds on education and training of the people to prepare them for investment instead in their respective provinces as a better option than leaving for work abroad.

Asked if she has been banking on her being a Magsaysay and close kin of the late President Ramon Magsaysay who was synonymous to hard work and dedicated public servant, Mitos said her track record or credentials and her performance in Congress would rather talk for her on why she must be elected to the Senate.

Mitos was not bothered further of having another Magsaysay fielded for senator under the administration ticket because it would spell the difference between the two of them, and the voters should have the choice. She added that she would be happy if two of them will be elected to the Senate, as she did not believe in political dynasty. — (FREEMAN)