The Lady Local Legislators League of the Philippines (4L) – NCR Chapter elected its officers during a convention held on June 29, 2023, at the Quezon City Hall. Esteemed female legislators from the local government units (LGUs) of the NCR gathered to mark this significant event.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government – National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) played a pivotal role in the 4L elections by facilitating and overseeing the smooth conduct of the election proper.

DILG-NCR Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III, commended the lady legislators for the positive impact they have made on urban society and the unwavering commitment they continue to push towards empowering women.

RD Agustin, in her message, posed the question: “As a nation, how can we address the prevailing gender disparity in virtually every aspect of our national life, if not by placing more women in positions of power in our society?” She affirmed and emphasized the important role women government officials play and their potential to effect positive societal change.

The 4L elections and assembly also enjoyed the presence of Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, who highlighted the impactful ordinances sponsored by female Quezon City councilors that have improved women’s lives. She underscored the need for women government officials to prioritize family, the youth, and gender equality.

Following Atty. Mila Catabay-Lauigan’s insightful discussion of the league’s constitution and by-laws, the election proceeded smoothly. The newly-elected officers of the 4L-NCR Chapter are as follows:

President – Hon. Maria Luisa Angela Martinez de Leon-Rivera (Pasig City)
Vice President – Hon. Mary Grace Bustonera Santos (Pasay City)
Secretary – Hon. Carmina Crisostomo Ortega (Makati City)
Treasurer – Hon. Arlene Maile Ilagan Atienza (City of Manila)
Auditor – Hon. Leah Milanes Bacolod (Caloocan City)
P.R.O. РHon. Nina Celine Rubite Sotto (Para̱aque City)

Board of Directors:

  1. Hon. Paty Katy Buncayao (Muntinlupa City)
  2. Hon. Maria Aurora Cabochan Suntay (Quezon City)
  3. Hon. Pamela Garcia Fugoso (City of Manila)
  4. Hon. Aurora Henson Jr. (Caloocan City)
  5. Hon. Arlene Hilapo (Muntinlupa City)
  6. Hon. Roselle C. Sabino-Sy (Valenzuela City)
  7. Hon. Maria Dolores Arayon (Makati City)
  8. Hon. Maria Concepcion Charmagne Mencias Ferrer (Quezon City)
  9. Hon. Analiza Lufi San (Navotas City)
  10. Hon. Fanella Joy Bote Panga-Cruz (Taguig City)

DILG-NCR Regional Director Agustin administered the oath of office to the newly-elected officers.

The Lady Local Legislators League of the Philippines has been a dynamic force in promoting and legislating women’s participation in local governance. They advocate for women’s rights and empowerment, provide training and development opportunities for women in government, and collaborate with other organizations to advance the cause of women.