Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos reassured local legislators during the 2026 Second Quarterly Continuing Local Legislative Education Program (CLLEP) in Iloilo City that Malacañang remains fully accessible to local government leaders.
Addressing city and municipal councilors on Wednesday, Abalos highlighted President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to foster strong collaboration between national and local governments to address grassroots concerns through concrete policy actions.
He explained that his role as Cabinet Secretary is focused on coordinating feedback from local government units (LGUs), the private sector, and the public to ensure swift executive action.
”Malacañang is always open to everyone. My office is always open to everyone,” Abalos said.
”Marami pa tayong gagawin. Makikinig kami sa inyo. At ang mahalaga, may gawa kami, may aksyon kaming gagawin,” he added.
Drawing on his background as former interior secretary and long-time mayor of Mandaluyong, Abalos underscored the importance of local policymaking, stating that impactful community development originates from sound municipal ordinances.
”Lahat ng magagandang proyekto ay nagsisimula sa ordinansa,” he said.
To inspire local lawmakers, Abalos cited successful LGU innovations, including Iloilo City’s Iloilo River restoration project led by Mayor Raisa Treñas and Bataan Governor Jose Enrique “Joet” Garcia III’s solar-powered EV charging station initiative in public gymnasiums. He also urged local leaders to adopt the eGov PH App to digitalize and streamline public services.
The CLLEP serves as a nationwide platform for local legislators to refine their legislative skills and share best governance practices.