Chavit Singson Stresses Peace for National Progress

BACOLOD CITY — Senatorial candidate Luis “Chavit” Singson emphasized the essential role of peace and order in achieving progress during his address at the Liga ng mga Barangay Provincial Congress in Bacolod on Tuesday.

“We cannot progress without peace and order,” Singson told the audience, highlighting how his efforts to maintain stability helped make Ilocos Sur one of the wealthiest provinces during his tenure.

Speaking to local leaders from Antique, Singson shared anecdotes from his early political career, recounting challenges he faced, including political violence and poverty, and how these experiences shaped his leadership journey.

The Liga ng mga Barangay Provincial Congress aimed to celebrate grassroots governance, strengthen support for local businesses, and reinforce commitments to community development, especially in Antique.

According to League Vice President Julius Pierre Pacificador, Singson was the only national figure invited to the event.

Opening his speech in Bisaya, Singson discussed his plans to support the nationwide jeepney modernization program. He pledged to make new, modern jeepneys available to transport groups under affordable terms, contributing to the government’s public transportation modernization efforts.

Singson also reiterated his commitment to enhancing financial accessibility for Filipinos, focusing on “banking the unbanked” and ensuring that local governments have the necessary financial resources for development.

Reflecting on his legislative work, Singson noted his role in crafting Republic Act 7171, the Tobacco Excise Tax Act, which allocates 15 percent of tobacco excise revenue to tobacco-producing regions, emphasizing the need for equitable financial support for local communities.

Later that day, Singson visited San Carlos City in Negros Occidental to attend the Pintaflores Festival, a celebration honoring the city’s patron saint, San Carlos Borromeo, and giving thanks for the community’s blessings.

Known affectionately as “Manong Chavit,” Singson received a warm welcome onstage from festival organizers and attendees. He offered a succinct message of resilience and success through his own experiences, saying, “Isang salita lang.”

Also present were Rep. Ginggo Valmayor of Negros Occidental’s 1st District and San Carlos City Mayor Rene Gustilo, who praised Singson as a loyal friend and a potential senator, expressing hope that his leadership could bring positive change to the nation.

Singson shared that before deciding to run for national office, he had already been helping people in a personal capacity, underscoring that his commitment to public service extends beyond formal politics. (ADV)